Chicago’s Southeast Side residents are urging officials to slow down a massive quantum computer campus project, citing concerns over jobs, housing, and the environment. The Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park, a multibillion-dollar development, is set to be anchored by Silicon Valley startup PsiQuantum.
Governor JB Pritzker has touted the project as a major leap forward in creating a “Silicon Valley of quantum development” in the state. However, community groups are demanding a community benefits agreement that guarantees jobs with living wages for local residents, addresses concerns over displacement, and mitigates traffic and pollution.
Amalia Nieto Gomez, executive director of the Alliance of the SouthEast, said residents were shocked by two proposed city ordinances earlier this month that advance plans for the quantum research park. Related Midwest, the developer, is working with community organizations to develop a Quality of Life Plan for South Chicago, but has not committed to a legally binding community benefits agreement.
Community Concerns Over Quantum Campus Project on Chicago’s Southeast Side
Residents and community groups near the proposed Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park on Chicago’s Southeast Side are urging city and state officials to slow down the development process and secure an agreement on community benefits. The project, announced in late July, aims to create a “Silicon Valley of quantum development” in the state, with a multibillion-dollar investment in a 440-acre research park anchored by Silicon Valley startup PsiQuantum.
The Alliance of the Southeast, a coalition of churches, schools, businesses, and community organizations, has expressed concerns over jobs, housing, and environmental issues. Residents demand an agreement that guarantees jobs with living wages for residents, addresses displacement concerns, contributes to improving amenities along the lakefront and in neighboring parks, invests in local schools, and mitigates traffic and pollution.
Zoning Regulations and Tax Incentives
Two proposed city ordinances introduced on October 9 aim to modify the site’s zoning regulations and codify tax incentives. However, residents are concerned that these changes will benefit the developers more than the community. The state is offering $300 million in incentives to build out the campus, while the city of Chicago plans to spend $5 million from its housing and economic development bond on the campus and offer additional tax breaks for the developers.
Residents are calling for a legally binding community benefits agreement that outlines specific commitments from the developer, Related Midwest. So far, project leaders have not provided any concrete plans to address community concerns. The Alliance of the Southeast has outlined its demands, including jobs with living wages, affordable housing, and investments in local schools and parks.
Environmental groups, such as ETHOS, have expressed concerns over the potential environmental impact of the development. The site was previously evaluated as safe for occupation in 1997, 2006, and 2010 by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. However, residents are worried about the potential for pollution from the quantum campus and the disturbance of contaminated soil during construction.
PsiQuantum has promised to create at least 150 jobs over five years, including engineers, technicians, and roles in finance, sales, and human resources. The state projects that the campus will generate up to $20 billion in economic impact and create thousands of jobs. However, residents are concerned that these jobs may not benefit local community members, who could be excluded from employment opportunities due to a lack of engagement with the local community.
The next public meeting is scheduled for October 29, at New Sullivan Elementary School, where residents will continue to push for a community benefits agreement and greater transparency from project leaders.
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