DNAinfo.com recently published an article about a historic Chicago firehouse that is set to be transformed into a creative hub by a local filmmaking organization.
From firefighters to filmmakers, the vacant city-owned firehouse at 5714 N. Ridge Ave., a Chicago Landmark built in 1928 and adorned with terra cotta details, is now being considered for sale to the Andersonville-based nonprofit Chicago Filmmakers. This decision was announced as part of a new initiative by the city to repurpose underused public buildings.
The city selected Chicago Filmmakers from a group of several arts and community organizations, recognizing their long-standing commitment to independent cinema and film education. If approved by the Chicago Plan Commission and City Council, the city will sell the property for just $36,000—10% of its market value—according to Chris Chang, a representative from the Department of Housing and Economic Development.
Despite its low purchase price, the organization plans to invest $600,000 in renovations for the aging structure, which has been empty since firefighters left in 2003. Brenda Webb, executive director of Chicago Filmmakers, expressed her excitement about the opportunity. “This is a dream come true,†she said during a meeting with neighborhood residents last week. “We’re thrilled and honored to have been chosen.â€
Once completed, the renovated firehouse will serve as a space for weekly screenings of independent films and documentaries that are rarely shown in mainstream theaters. In addition, the organization plans to partner with local schools, host two annual film festivals, and introduce experimental and underground programming to the community.
Webb emphasized that the goal is to make the firehouse a valuable community resource. “We want it to be a place where people can gather, learn, and experience art in a unique way,†she said. If everything proceeds as planned, the sale should be finalized by spring, with construction beginning immediately after. The renovation is expected to take between eight months and a year once the property is acquired.
For years, neighbors have been hoping for a new tenant to bring life back to the once-bustling firehouse. The search for a new occupant started over a decade ago, and it wasn’t until May that the city issued a formal request for proposals from interested groups across the city.
An open house earlier this summer brought in representatives from a brew pub, theater groups, and even a nursery school, showing the potential interest in the space. Sue Morales, president of the local block club, believes the plan fits well with the character of the neighborhood.
If approved, the first and second floors of the firehouse will undergo full renovations, while the basement will be used for storage. The first floor’s truck bay will be converted into a screening room with up to 99 seats, and the second floor will become a classroom space. An elevator will also be added to the building, along with a concession stand and bathroom near the entrance.
The existing parking lot includes 15 spaces, and the main entrance will be located off the alley. Ald. Harry Osterman (48th) confirmed that Chicago Filmmakers was one of two finalists, and they were chosen over a for-profit arts organization, though the latter was not named.
Founded in 1973, Chicago Filmmakers has been operating out of a leased space on North Clark Street for the past 17 years. Webb mentioned that she had been eyeing the firehouse for years, despite its initial challenges—like a water-filled basement when she first visited.
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