Construction of former President Barack Obama’s library and museum in Chicago has triggered backlash from local residents and community leaders, who fear the $850 million “monstrosity” will accelerate gentrification, drive up rents, and displace longtime residents and their families, according to a new report.
Far from feeling pride in the neighborhood’s favorite son, locals are blasting the project, evem calling its design an “eyesore.”
“It’s a monstrosity. It’s over budget, it’s taking way too long to finish and it’s going to drive up prices and bring headaches and problems for everyone who lives here. It feels like a washing away of the neighborhood and culture that used to be here.”
While the privately funded project’s price tag has ballooned from its original $500 million budget, residents said they’ve also seen rents and property taxes skyrocket as construction nears competition.
“A two-bedroom apartment that used to rent for $800 a month has already jumped to $1,800. Property taxes are going up so much that the owner of my building is saying she might just walk away.“Look at the Reagan Library [in Simi Valley, Calif.]. It’s beautiful. This? There are almost no windows. What are they hiding? And this Brutalist cement look in a city known for its incredible architecture. Why?”
