Loop data center pitched for landmarked office building
A Chicago investor received initial city approval to convert the lower floors of a landmarked Loop office building into a data center. The project, which includes installing a ComEd power vault and backup generators, faces opposition from Preservation Chicago, who view it as a dangerous precedent for historic buildings. The city's Mayor Brandon Johnson recently signed an executive order establishing regulatory guardrails for data centers and called for a moratorium on new developments, though this specific project is exempt from the new review process due to existing zoning.
An investor, Igor Gabal, has proposed converting the second through sixth floors of the landmarked office building at 300 W. Adams St. in Chicago's Loop into a data center. The plan includes a new ComEd power vault and ten backup generators on the roof. The Commission on Chicago Landmarks' Permit Review Committee granted initial approval on August 6, though the full commission must still green-light the project.
Gabal acquired the property for $4 million in 2023, noting that the Class C building was nearly 60% vacant, making a data center conversion a viable option for redevelopment. The proposed ComEd vault is estimated at 20.4 megawatts, significantly less than hyperscale facilities.
Preservation Chicago, led by executive director Ward Miller, has voiced strong opposition, calling the conversion a "dangerous precedent" for landmarked buildings and advocating for residential reuse, especially for affordable housing. Alderman Brendan Reilly of the 42nd Ward reviewed the proposal and had no objections.
The project proceeds as Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson recently signed an executive order to establish regulatory guardrails for data center development and proposed a moratorium on new or expanded data centers within city limits. However, the Department of Planning and Development confirmed that Gabal's proposal is not subject to the new cross-department review, as data center use is already permitted under the building's current zoning.