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After sitting dark for nearly two decades, a historic building in Rogers Park is set to shine once again. The long-vacant former Engine Co. #102 firehouse, located at 1721–23 W. Greenleaf Ave., is officially slated for a $3 million transformation that will breathe new life into the neighborhood as a vibrant café and community event space.
Built in 1915, the two-story brick station served the Rogers Park community for nearly a century before operations relocated to North Clark Street in 2009. Left unoccupied for 17 years, the 111-year-old, city-owned structure became the subject of an open Request for Proposals (RFP) by Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development to put city-owned firehouses back into use. Out of five competitive submissions, one plan rose to the top.
“This thoughtful proposal will preserve a beautiful building with new uses that reinforce its role as a community anchor while complementing pedestrian-oriented retail activity on nearby Clark Street,” announced DPD Commissioner Ciere Boatright.
Led by developer Ryan Cummings and Michael Salvatore of Chicago’s Heritage Hospitality Group, the $3 million project aims to respect the building's historic bones and preserve its character while injecting modern utility. The team intends to purchase the 6,323-square-foot property at its market value of $350,050.
The redevelopment will split the building into two distinct, community-focused concepts. The ground floor will be a 2,000-square-foot bustling coffeehouse, designed to welcome neighbors just off the busy Clark Street retail strip. The second floor will feature 4,000 square feet of flexible event and office space, perfect for local gatherings, remote work and private functions.
By turning a shuttered municipal relic into a bustling gathering spot, the project preserves the neighborhood's rich architectural history while fueling local economic growth. According to a process detailed by Preservation Chicago, the proposal will undergo a detailed design review and community outreach before any permits are issued to begin work, but the first steps towards revitalization of this beloved firehouse are a welcome sign for Rogers Park residents.