The Chicago Landmark Congress Theater located at 2135 N. Milwaukee Avenue in Logan Square is about to begin an extensive, $65 million renovation and is scheduled to be reopened in 2019. Built in 1926 for the Lubliner and Trinz theater company, the complex was designed by architect Fridstein and Company.
The theater operated until 2013 when it was closed due to a series of safety code violations. In 2014, it was sold to developer Michael Moyer. Moyer was part of the ownership that bought and restored the 1926 Cadillac Palace Theatre.
The Congress Theater will reopen as a theater venue with a capacity of 3,500 for general admission shows and 2,600 for shows with seating. Lead by architect Andy Tinucci from Woodhouse Tinucci Architects, the redevelopment will include 32-room inn as well as 14 affordable housing units.
According to Tinucci, “the goal is to ensure the building lasts another 100 years” (Chicago Tribune, Yerak, 10/12/17)
The Congress Theater was designated a Chicago Landmark in 2002 with the extensive and persistent support of Preservation Chicago and Logan Square Preservation. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2017.
Additionally, Preservation Chicago is working diligently to encourage the restoration of the Uptown Theatre, with an estimated cost of $70 million.
Additional Reading
With $65 million renovation soon underway, Congress Theater looks to reopen in 2019, Becky Yerak, Chicago Tribune, October 12, 2017.