Full Breakdown
South Chicago Residents Rally Behind Quantum Computing Development
3/3/2026, 11:35:19 AM
Coalition Forms to Support Quantum Park
A coalition of approximately 20 businesses and residents, named Southeast Neighbors For Quantum, has emerged to advocate for the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park, part of the larger Quantum Shore development in South Chicago. This initiative comes in response to opposition from some community members who are skeptical of the project's potential benefits. Jorge Perez, owner of Chico’s Oven, emphasized the coalition's aim to ensure that the voices of Southeast Chicago residents are heard in discussions about the development. He stated, “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” highlighting the economic growth and investment prospects the project could bring.
Community Perspectives on the Development
The Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park is set to host the nation’s first utility-scale quantum computer, which proponents argue will create jobs in quantum computing and related fields. Erika Galan, a program manager at the Calumet Area Industrial Commission, noted that the project is expected to increase foot traffic for local businesses. Roni Facen, principal and CEO of St. Francis de Sales High School, shared that the park is collaborating with local schools to introduce quantum programming, which aims to engage students and prepare them for future job markets. Facen remarked, “We’re preparing kids for jobs that don’t exist yet,” indicating the educational benefits tied to the development.
Opposition and Calls for Community Benefits
Despite the coalition's support, there is notable opposition from groups such as Southside Together and the Coalition for a South Works Community Benefits Agreement. These organizations have expressed concerns about the quantum park, advocating instead for developments that they believe would better serve the community's immediate needs, such as grocery stores or pharmacies. While not entirely opposed to the quantum campus, they have called for a community benefits agreement to ensure that local residents gain from the redevelopment of the former steel mill site.
Historical Context and Future Implications
The Quantum Shore development, which broke ground in October 2025, aims to revitalize an area that has faced significant disinvestment and population decline—24% since 2000, according to a recent community plan. Sharon Brown-Latiker, a founding member of the Southeast Neighbors For Quantum, expressed hope that the project would bring jobs and investment back to a long-neglected area. She stated, “We have been a community that has been forgotten,” asserting the coalition's commitment to ensuring that South Chicago is recognized and revitalized.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” — Jorge Perez, Owner of Chico’s Oven
- “We’re preparing kids for jobs that don’t exist yet, and I think this way they can see it.” — Roni Facen, Principal and CEO of St. Francis de Sales High School
- “We have been a community that has been forgotten because we are so far over East,” — Sharon Brown-Latiker, Founding Member of Southeast Neighbors For Quantum
Conclusion
The Southeast Neighbors For Quantum coalition represents a significant local effort to support the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park amidst ongoing opposition. As the project progresses, its impact on the community's economic landscape and educational opportunities will be closely monitored, with advocates hopeful for a revitalized South Chicago.
