Logan Square Development Update 2026

Logan Square is currently the site of two of the most anticipated "reawakenings" in Chicago’s recent history. After years of speculation, the neighborhood's retail and cultural anchors are finally moving from the planning phase to the construction phase.

Driven by a surge in Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) and overseen by Alderman Daniel La Spata (1st Ward), the Milwaukee Avenue corridor is being redesigned for a higher-density, pedestrian-centric future.

1. The Trader Joe’s "CVS Transformation" (2053 N. Milwaukee Ave)

In February 2026, it was finally confirmed: Trader Joe’s has signed a fully executed lease to take over the long-vacant CVS building at 2053 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Aldermanic Effort: Alderman La Spata confirmed the lease in late February 2026, noting that bringing a full-service grocer to this "grocery desert" stretch was a top priority for his office to support the influx of new residential units in the area.

2. The Congress Theater Rehab: Construction Starts March 2026

Just a stone's throw from the future Trader Joe's, the Congress Theater (2135 N. Milwaukee Ave) is officially entering its "full speed ahead" phase.

• The Big News: In late February 2026, Alderman La Spata announced that construction is set to begin in March 2026.
• The Funding: The $118 million project reached a critical milestone in early 2026 when the Chicago City Council approved a $25 million HUD Section 108 loan, bridging the final gap in the developer’s (Baum Revision) budget.
• The Vision: Beyond the 3,500-seat theater, the project includes 16 affordable housing units and 13,000 square feet of retail space, 75% of which must be leased to local businesses or artists under the redevelopment agreement.

3. Alderman Daniel La Spata: Shaping the 1st Ward

Alderman La Spata’s tenure has been defined by a shift toward "Community-Based Zoning." His efforts in 2025 and 2026 have focused on three key pillars:

4. Other Developments Arriving in 2026

• 2240 N. Milwaukee: A new 6-story mixed-use building with 50 units (10 affordable) and ground-floor retail was recently approved and is expected to break ground this year.
• The "Hipster Highway" Upgrades: Ongoing installation of protected bike lanes along Milwaukee Ave to handle the highest bike traffic volume in the city.
• The 1st Ward "First Looks": La Spata’s office continues to host virtual zoning meetings to allow neighbors to weigh in on developments before they are approved.