The center’s construction cost has ballooned from an initial $330–$350 million estimate to $830 million
The center’s construction cost has ballooned from an initial $330–$350 million estimate to $830 million
. The Obama Foundation aimed for a $470 million endowment but currently holds only about $1 million
Local leaders and residents have warned the project is driving up rents and property values, risking displacement of working‑class families in Jackson Park
. A $40.75 million racial discrimination lawsuit was filed by minority contractor Robert McGee of II in One Construction, alleging that engineering firm Thornton Tomasetti imposed non‑standard rebar rules that caused overruns and near‑bankruptcy
The center’s opening in 2026 was accompanied by protests from some Black residents over gentrification and alleged contractor unpaid labor
Skyrocketing costs far beyond initial estimates
Community displacement fears and gentrification concerns
A major $40M racial discrimination lawsuit tied to DEI contracts
