Chicago Construction News staff writer
Demolition is underway at the former Royal George Theatre complex on North Halsted Street after the City of Chicago issued permits on Oct. 31 for the teardown of two main buildings at 1633 and 1649 N. Halsted St.
Precision Excavation is carrying out the demolition work, clearing the long-dormant site for a planned redevelopment by Draper & Kramer. The project received approval from the Chicago Plan Commission earlier in 2023.
The Royal George complex, which included the theatre, restaurant space, a parking deck and associated commercial buildings, has been vacant since the theatre closed in 2020.
Plans include a nine-storey mixed-use residential building with 131 dwelling units above ground-floor commercial space. The development will include approximately 4,500 square feet of retail or restaurant space at street level, a parking garage with 34 vehicle spaces, and bicycle storage for 131 bikes.
A coworking space, fitness studio, resident lounge and a landscaped sky terrace are also planned.
As part of negotiated approvals, the redevelopment includes commitments toward community benefits, including contributions related to nearby parks and affordable housing.
A construction start date for the new building has not been announced.
