“Today marks a major milestone—not just for the LaSalle Street Revitalization initiative, but for how we think about Chicago’s economic future.”

Those were the words of Mayor Brandon Johnson at this morning’s 79 West Monroe groundbreaking, where he unveiled Build Better Together—a bold, citywide strategy for inclusive economic growth. More than the start of a transformative adaptive reuse project, today signaled the launch of a new framework to drive investment, create jobs, and deliver lasting impact across all 77 neighborhoods.

The 79 West Monroe development, part of the revitalization of the LaSalle corridor, will feature 117 new residential units, including 41 affordable—which demonstrates what’s possible when we align vision, values, and velocity. It’s housed within the historic Rector Building, the oldest surviving commercial high-rise designed by renowned architect Jarvis Hunt, now part of one of the nation’s largest concentrations of mixed-income, adaptive reuse projects. It’s a symbol of both preservation and progress.

79 W. Monroe “not only revitalizes a historic landmark but also sets a model for sustainable, mixed-use communities,” said Massimiliano Seliziato, Lagfin Manager.

“We know the post-pandemic reality has challenged cities across the country. But in Chicago, we’re meeting those challenges with action,” Mayor Johnson said. “Build Better Together is a coordinated citywide economic strategy—one that strengthens neighborhoods, grows small businesses, expands access to affordable housing, promotes innovation, and fosters job creation across all 77 communities,” he added.

The Build Better Together plan is rooted in the real work already underway:

• The Housing and Economic Development Bond—the largest in Chicago’s history;
• The “Cut the Tape” initiative launched nearly a year ago is streamlining processes and accelerating project timelines; and
• The collective drive to create a more inclusive, more vibrant, more resilient economy for all.

“We’re making investments that matter, the mayor added. “From the Missing Middle housing initiative to Thrive Exchange near the new quantum campus, to ribbon-cuttings like Auburn Gresham Apartments next week—this is what equitable growth looks like in action. This isn’t just about downtown or the South Side. It’s about all of us—working together to shape a city that’s not just recovering, but rising. Whether it’s LaSalle Street or Lawndale, West Loop or West Side, we’re building a stronger Chicago for this generation and the next.”

“Build Better Together is a critical next step in our citywide effort to deliver lasting, neighborhood-level economic progress,” Deputy Mayor of Business and Neighborhood Development Kenya K. Merritt said. “This encompassing strategy brings cohesion to the work that has been happening across departments—housing, planning, business development and culture—and focuses our efforts on creating meaningful, measurable outcomes in communities that have been overlooked historically. By deepening our partnerships, removing structural barriers and strategically investing in neighborhoods, we’re ensuring that every resident and business has a stake in—and benefits from—Chicago’s economic future.”

Build Better Together is already accelerating Chicago’s standing as a top destination for business investment and innovation. In 2024 alone, 140 companies chose to expand, relocate, or launch in Chicagoland—including 10 on the South and West Sides—helping the city earn Site Selection Magazine’s distinction as the nation’s top metro for corporate relocation. “Business attraction remains a core focus for our team and board,” said World Business Chicago President & CEO Phil Clement. “Every member is actively managing a pipeline of high-potential companies, while also deepening global partnerships across the UK, Japan, and Germany to bring foreign direct investment into our neighborhoods.”

Phil also highlighted Chicago’s momentum in emerging industries, including quantum technology. “Chicagoland’s emergence as a quantum hub is backed by more than $5 billion in investment and full alignment across public and academic sectors,” he added. “Through our ongoing economic planning, we’ve convened over 200 business leaders to align around six growth sectors, identifying where Chicago’s vibrancy and competitiveness are strongest. Build Better Together gives us a clear path forward—not only to elevate our central business district, but to ensure all 77 community areas are thriving and future-ready.”

To learn more:

1. Build Better Together, City of Chicago website.
2. Build Better Together press release.
3. Link to story about the LaSalle Corridor office to residential transformation project at 79 West Monroe project.

Photos from today’s launch event: