Damen Silos, Facing Demolition, Should Become Public Festival Grounds, Local Leaders Say

Community leaders in McKinley Park are rallying to save the historic Damen Silos from planned demolition by MAT Limited, the site's new owner. Since their abandonment in 1977, the silos have become a local landmark and a destination for urban explorers, making their potential loss significant for the community. Advocates propose transforming the 23-acre site into public festival grounds, similar to successful projects in Seattle and Buffalo, emphasizing the need for equitable green space. The McKinley Park Development Council has initiated a petition that has garnered over 670 signatures in support of this plan. MAT Limited purchased the property for $6.

5 million and has received demolition permits from the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, targeting early 2025 for the demolition. However, city approval for these permits remains pending, allowing advocates to push for a change. Local officials, including Ald.

Byron Sigcho-Lopez, criticize the state’s decision to sell the silos to MAT Limited and advocate for a solution that benefits the community. Preservation Chicago’s Executive Director highlights the potential transformation of the area into a vibrant public space along the Chicago River.