CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Google has been named as the company that will eventually make its home in the current James R. Thompson Center.
In a press conference Wednesday morning, Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot were among state officials who announced Google will buy the Thompson Center for $105 million — after developers renovate the existing building.
Google already has about 2,000 workers in Chicago in the Fulton Market District. This move means the tech giant will add to its local workforce once the Thompson Center is overhauled.
“Googlers love Chicago and all that it has to offer,” said Google executive Karen Sauder. “We look forward to working with The Prime Group and Capri to thoughtfully update this building to our high sustainability standards while respecting its iconic design.”
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The Thompson Center has been an expensive albatross around the state’s neck for years, but it won't be for much longer.
The State of Illinois announced it will sell the building for $105 million, then turn around and buy the former BMO headquarters at 115 S. LaSalle St. for $75 million.
“This consolidation will save IL taxpayers nearly $1 billion over the next 30 years,” Pritzker said. “It will bring new revenue to the City of Chicago by returning this building to its tax rolls.”
Mayor Lightfoot called the deal a milestone in Chicago history.
“The building will be energy efficient, environmentally sustainable and inclusive in every aspect of the word,” said Quintin Primo, Executive Chairman of Capri Investment Group, which will work on the Thompson Center’s renovations.
Jack Lavin, who heads the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, said, “Today’s announcement is the strongest indicator that Illinois is a world-leading technology destination.”
The State of Illinois’ decision to purchase 115 S. LaSalle St., officials said, will provide more space for employees at a lower cost.
“We’re saving taxpayers money,” Pritzker said. “We’re growing high-paying jobs. We’re adding vitality to the Loop.”
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