The Chicago Blackhawks have unveiled an ambitious plan to expand their practice facility, Fifth Third Arena, with the addition of two hockey rinks, 180 parking spaces, a neighboring park, and a Divvy station.
The report indicates that the project, set to be completed in 2026, will generate around 260 construction jobs.
The Blackhawks have acquired the land adjacent to Fifth Third Arena at 303 S. Damen Ave. for the proposed 135,000-square-foot expansion. The purchase, valued at $23.5 million, involves buying the land from Rush University Medical Center, with the deal having received approval from the City Council in April.
As part of the agreement, Rush will contribute $6.3 million from the sale to the Sankofa Wellness Village, a development initiative in West Garfield Park aimed at enhancing the quality of life and life expectancy of local residents.
Sara Guderyahn, the Blackhawks' Vice President of Social Impact & Outreach, emphasized the organization's belief in the transformative power of sports programming. Guderyahn stated that the expanded rink will not only serve as the heart of the Blackhawks organization but also foster sportsmanship and create a safe space for the West Side community.
