DNAinfo.com recently published an article about a historic firehouse in Chicago that is set to be repurposed by a local filmmaking organization. The building, located at 5714 N. Ridge Ave., is a city landmark built in 1928 and features terra cotta detailing. It has been vacant since firefighters left in 2003 and is now being considered for a new purpose.
The city has chosen the Andersonville-based nonprofit Chicago Filmmakers to take over and renovate the property. This decision came after a competitive selection process involving several other arts and community groups. If approved by the Chicago Plan Commission and City Council, the city will sell the firehouse for $36,000 — just 10% of its market value — according to Chris Chang from the Department of Housing and Economic Development.
Despite the low purchase price, Chicago Filmmakers plans to invest $600,000 into the renovation of the deteriorating structure. Brenda Webb, the organization’s executive director, called the opportunity a “dream†and expressed her excitement about the project. She emphasized that the renovated space would serve as a hub for independent film screenings, documentaries, and educational programs — something not typically found in mainstream theaters.
Webb also mentioned that the firehouse would become a community resource, offering partnerships with local schools, hosting two annual film festivals, and showcasing experimental and underground films. The plan includes converting the first-floor truck bay into a screening room with up to 99 seats, while the second floor would be used for film classes. A basement storage area and an elevator are also part of the design.
The main entrance will be located on an alley, with a concession stand and restrooms inside. The existing parking lot has 15 spaces, and the building will be fully renovated if the sale goes through. Construction is expected to begin in the spring, with the project taking anywhere from eight months to a year once the property is acquired.
Neighbors have been waiting for years for a new tenant to move into the empty firehouse. The search began over a decade ago, and it wasn’t until May that the city issued a request for proposals for the vacant buildings across the city. An open house earlier this summer brought in representatives from various groups, including a brew pub, theater organizations, and a nursery school.
Sue Morales, president of the local block club, said the filmmakers’ plan fits well with the neighborhood. Alderman Harry Osterman (48th) confirmed that Chicago Filmmakers was one of two finalists, beating out a for-profit arts group that the city chose not to name.
Founded in 1973, Chicago Filmmakers has been based at 5243 N. Clark St. for the past 17 years. Webb admitted she had been eyeing the firehouse for a long time, though her first visit revealed a basement filled with water — a challenge that the team is now ready to tackle.
Thanks, Dan
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