City Seeks Builders, Rehabbers in North Pullman

CHICAGO-After taking steps to encourage retail development on the North Pullman neighborhood on the far South Side, city officials hope to lure developers willing to build rooftops. The department of planning and development has issued a request for proposals for 27 lots in the 10400 and 10500 blocks of S. Corliss and Maryland avenues, some of them already owned by the city.

Included in the proposal are 17 parcels on both blocks, already zoned for townhouse or multifamily development. The city already owns seven lots, which they are offering at $105,000 each. Three lots are owned by private parties, while seven other properties are privately owned buildings in Pullman landmark district. The city is ready to help developers negotiate with the private owners, says department of planning and development project manager Karen Forte.

The city has recently issued a request for proposals to developers willing to build retail space on more than five acres at 115th Street and Michigan Avenue. Target prices totaling more than $2.5 million have been set for two parcels on the southeast and southwest corners of the intersection, on the boundary of the Roseland and West Pullman communities.

Redeveloping the existing buildings in the 10400 and 10500 blocks of S. Corliss and Maryland avenues would have to follow the city’s guidelines for historic districts. However, Cook County Class L property tax breaks and 20% federal tax credits would be available to developers rehabbing the properties, Forte says.

The request for proposals was recently endorsed by the community development commission. Proposals are due Jan. 21.