Full Breakdown
Groundbreaking of Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park: A New Era for South Chicago
10/1/2025, 12:55:08 PM
Overview of the Quantum Computing Campus
On September 30, 2025, officials, including Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, celebrated the groundbreaking of the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) on the site of the former U.S. Steel South Works in Chicago's South Side. This multibillion-dollar project aims to establish Illinois as a leading hub for quantum computing and microelectronics, attracting global companies and fostering economic growth in a historically disinvested area. The park is expected to create thousands of jobs and generate billions in investment.
Key Features and Development Plans
The IQMP will span 440 acres and is designed to accommodate a range of quantum technology firms, with California-based PsiQuantum as the anchor tenant. PsiQuantum plans to construct the first utility-scale quantum computer in the United States at the site. Other notable companies, including IBM, Infleqtion, and Diraq, are also set to establish operations there. The first phase of development includes infrastructure improvements and an 80,000-square-foot facility for PsiQuantum, with additional phases anticipated to follow.
Curt Bailey, president of Related Midwest, the park's co-developer, emphasized the project's potential to revitalize an area that has seen little investment over the past 50 years. The development will also include new housing, retail spaces, and improved public amenities, such as walking trails and parks, enhancing the local environment.
Economic Impact and Community Engagement
Governor Pritzker highlighted the significance of the IQMP in transforming the local economy, stating, “This milestone is made possible by a unique partnership across city, county, state, and private industry.” The project is expected to create high-quality jobs and educational opportunities, with a focus on engaging local residents in the workforce.
However, community groups have raised concerns regarding the potential environmental impacts and the need for a Community Benefits Agreement to ensure that local residents benefit from the development. Activists, including members of the Coalition for a South Works CBA, have called for transparency regarding environmental safety and job opportunities for local residents.
Criticism and Opposition
While many local leaders support the project, some residents express skepticism about its benefits. Concerns include the risk of displacement, environmental pollution, and the adequacy of job opportunities for the existing community. Anne Holcomb, a local environmental advocate, stated, “We want transparency on what’s in the ground. We want protections during construction.” Additionally, some residents fear that the promised jobs may not be accessible to them.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Today we break ground on a landmark project that will establish Illinois as the nation’s leading hub for quantum innovation while attracting billions in economic investment and creating thousands of jobs,” — Gov. JB Pritzker
- “This investment will bring new jobs and educational pathways while also paving the way for expanded health care and community amenities, including a new Advocate Health hospital and expanded access to the lakefront.” — Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson
- “We are rebuilding an economic engine for the future and investing in the people of the Southeast Side,” — Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson
What's Next
The first phase of the IQMP is expected to be completed by 2027, with ongoing community engagement to address residents' concerns. As the project progresses, stakeholders aim to ensure that the development benefits both the local economy and the surrounding community, marking a significant step toward revitalizing South Chicago.
