First-Ever Hotel for Navy Pier

By Ioana Neamt

Chicago Navy Pier

Chicago—Mayor Rahm Emanuel, together with Navy Pier Inc. President & CEO Marilynn Gardner, recently announced that the first-ever hotel will be built on the city’s Navy Pier. The project is part of the Pier’s Centennial Vision redevelopment plan, and is scheduled to begin construction in 2017 and be delivered in the second half of 2018. The hotel brand has not yet been determined.

The new hotel will feature more than 200 guestrooms on five floors overlooking Navy Pier’s South Dock, and will be located on the east end of the Pier right next to Festival Hall. The project is expected to create 300 construction jobs and 200 permanent jobs upon completion.

“Navy Pier is Chicago’s front door, serving as a beacon to visitors and one of our city’s great economic and cultural sites,” Mayor Emanuel said in a statement. “This new hotel will be a key part of the transformation and our efforts to bring 55 million visitors to Chicago annually by 2020, generating jobs and economic opportunity throughout Chicago’s neighborhoods.”

Architect Jackie Koo of KOO developed the preliminary design for the $90 million hotel, which consists of steel and glass bay windows and balconies overlooking the city and Lake Michigan. First Hospitality Group will develop and operate the property.

“The creation of this hip new hotel on one of Chicago’s most famous landmarks is a revolutionary development for the city, and FHG is honored to be a part of it,” FHG President & CEO Robert Habeeb explained. “This property will be incredibly special, in terms of both amenities and community impact. FHG will be working very closely with Navy Pier and the city to bring this world-class destination to life.”

Located in Streeterville in the city’s Near North Side area, the Navy Pier first opened in July 1916. One of the most popular Windy City destinations, the Pier incorporates more than 50 acres of parks, gardens, shops, restaurants and family attractions. Navy Pier will also host its Centennial Celebration this summer.

Image courtesy of the Navy Pier official Facebook page