University of Chicago purchases Harper Court, partners with City to revitalize 53rd Street

Harper Court Update.  The University of Chicago will partner with the City of Chicago for the redevelopment of the Harper Court Shopping Center and the adjacent City of Chicago Surface parking lot. The University and the City of Chicago have provided an overview of the proposed Harper Court Redevelopment Process and Objectives.

At the July 2008 TIF meeting Chicago Consultants, on behalf of the University of Chicago and City of Chicago thanked all those who commented on the RFP Parameters and Guidelines during the 6 week public comment period. The following summarizes the key items raised in the submitted comments:

• Density- The RFP should reference the existing densities and building heights adjacent to the site and in nearby East Hyde Park

• Affordable Housing - The RFP should emphasize the importance of meeting “affordability” standards as part of all mixed-use developments.

• Retail Mix - The RFP should stress the objective of a quality mix of retailers that includes opportunities for smaller independent stores and start-up tenants

• Neighborhood Character - The RFP should express the desire for the redevelopment  to reflect the Hyde Park's unique qualities and reflect its diversity and strong architectural history.