Quote:
Originally Posted by ardecila
If the choice is $400M to rehab an architectural gem, or $1.5B to build a new convention hall (the "bridge building") that is an urbanist disaster, seems like a no-brainer.
If it's gonna sit on the lakefront, I would love if the city and state came together to set up recreational programming for Lakeside Center so it functions as something like park space when there's not a convention going on (which is most of the time).
Imagine a huge fieldhouse where disadvantaged kids can play organized volleyball, tennis, basketball through the winter. The only thing you need is different flooring, and some nets that retract up to the ceiling. McCormick has tons of parking for families to drive here, and direct Metra Electric access to much of the South Side.
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The building should be used to bring together all people regardless of any class distinctions. The idea of hosting organized sports Amateur or Pro is excellent. Regional, State or National tournaments in fencing, volleyball, Brazilian mini ball soccer, martial arts of all sorts, handball, ping-pong, basketball.
Of course only Level 3 has the 50ft ceilings hts. Levels 1 &2 are 15ft hts with columns on 30ft centers.
BTW Coming up this week at McMCK lakeside
NIKE TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS
July 10, 11 & 12, 2022Chicago, IL
Now in its 24th year, the Tournament of Champions is the greatest summer basketball event in the world – bar none. For 2022 we will be constructing 80 new full size Sport Courts in the largest Convention Center in North America, Chicago’s amazing McCormick Place.
2022 will also see the return of Nike Nationals, which itself always brings unexpected thrills and surprises. Past years have seen appearances by ESPN crews, Kevin Durant, Chance the Rapper, and more.
Most importantly, Chicago is the #1 recruiting destination for college basketball coaches. Many events claim to have hundreds (or thousands) or NCAA coaches in attendance; the Tournament of Champions is the only one that actually backs up the numbers.
If a team could compete in just one event in 2022 to receive the maximum collegiate exposure for its athletes, the Tournament of Champions would be the one. A central location in one of the world’s greatest cities and the highest caliber competition on the planet make this a must stop for all serious teams and athletes.