DNAinfo.com recently published an article detailing the sale of a historic Chicago firehouse to a local filmmaking organization for renovation. The building, located at 5714 N. Ridge Ave., is a Chicago Landmark constructed in 1928 and adorned with terra cotta details. It's set to be acquired by the Andersonville-based nonprofit Chicago Filmmakers, marking a new chapter for the once-vacant structure.
The city selected Chicago Filmmakers from a group of several arts and community organizations to take over and revitalize the property. If approved by the Chicago Plan Commission and City Council, the city will sell the firehouse for just $36,000 — a fraction of its market value, according to Chris Chang of the Department of Housing and Economic Development.
Despite its dilapidated condition, the film organization plans to invest $600,000 into renovations. The building has been empty since firefighters left in 2003, leaving it exposed to the elements for years.
"This is a dream for us. We are so thrilled and honored that we were chosen," said Brenda Webb, executive director of Chicago Filmmakers, during a recent meeting with nearby residents. She expressed excitement about transforming the space into a hub for independent films, documentaries, and experimental programming that wouldn’t typically be found at mainstream theaters.
Webb also mentioned potential partnerships with local schools and the hosting of two annual film festivals, as well as other unique events. "We want the firehouse to be seen as a community resource," she emphasized.
If everything moves forward, the city’s approval is expected by spring, with construction beginning immediately after. The renovation is anticipated to take between eight months and a year following the acquisition.
For years, the neighborhood has awaited a new tenant for the vacant firehouse. The search began a decade ago, and it wasn’t until May that the city issued a request for proposals from interested groups across the city.
An open house earlier this summer drew interest from a brew pub, theater groups, and even a nursery school. Sue Morales, president of the local block club, believes the plan aligns well with the area’s character.
According to James Gorski, the architect for Chicago Filmmakers, the basement and first and second floors would be fully renovated. The basement would serve as storage, while the first floor’s truck bay would be transformed into a screening room with up to 99 seats. The second floor would be used for film classes, and an elevator would be added to the building.
The main entrance would be on the alley, with a concession stand and restroom just inside. The property includes 15 parking spaces.
Alderman Harry Osterman (48th) confirmed that Chicago Filmmakers was one of two finalists, chosen over a for-profit arts organization, which he declined to name.
Founded in 1973, Chicago Filmmakers has operated out of a space at 5243 N. Clark St. for the past 17 years. Webb admitted she had her eye on the firehouse for a long time, though her first visit revealed a basement flooded with water — a challenge she now looks forward to overcoming.
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