Residents of Chicago's Southeast Side are raising concerns over the rapid development of a proposed quantum computer campus at the former U.S. Steel South Works site. The Alliance of the Southeast, a coalition of local churches, schools, businesses, and community organizations, organized a press conference to express their discontent. They were surprised by the introduction of two city ordinances on October 9th that accelerate plans for the quantum research park, altering zoning and codifying tax incentives before any community benefit agreement was established.
First announced in July, the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park is a mammoth endeavor covering 440 acres and is expected to be led by startup PsiQuantum. Governor JB Pritzker highlighted the project's potential to transform the area into a hub of economic investment and innovation, calling it a step towards creating Illinois' own Silicon Valley of quantum development. Amalia NietoGomez, executive director of the Alliance, emphasized the urgency for real community benefits and noted that discussions must proceed more deliberately.
Despite community efforts, developers have yet to address local demands for jobs with living wages, efforts to prevent displacement, and investment in local amenities, schools, and infrastructure. The response from governing bodies has been minimal; WBEZ's inquiries to the mayor’s and governor’s offices remain unanswered. There is a growing unease as groundbreaking could commence as early as January, far sooner than the first quarter of 2025 initially suggested by the developer, Related Midwest.
Related Midwest has collaborated with organizations to formulate a Quality of Life Plan for the area, though clarity on a legally binding benefits agreement remains elusive. Economic implications for locals are a significant concern, as noted by employees like Clifton Muhammad, who underlined the potential absence of direct local advantages. The state promises incentives, including $300 million for the campus, and the city plans further financial support, raising questions about job allocations for local communities amid forecasts of substantial economic impacts and job creation.
Environmental worries also loom; the site has been deemed safe by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency several times since 1997, yet residents near the site, like Anne Holcomb of ETHOS, fear potential pollution. Comparisons to other major redevelopment sites further underscore the scale of this project, amplifying frustrations with the perceived limited influence of local representation. With future discussions slated, community members are keen on ensuring their voices are heard amidst the swiftly progressing venture.
