Lincoln Park – A proposal to replace the former McGee’s Tavern & Grille with a five‑story mixed‑use building is moving forward after a lively community meeting on Thursday. Developer Arsalan Hamidi seeks to rezone the 950 W. Webster Avenue site from B1‑2 to B3‑3 to allow construction of 20 two‑bedroom apartments, including four affordable units, above 2,200 sq ft of ground‑floor commercial space.
Community Input and Design Adjustments
About 75 neighbors gathered at the meeting hosted by Alderman Timmy Knudsen (43rd) to voice concerns about the building’s height, parking, and exterior materials. Residents asked how the structure would fit into the existing streetscape and whether the proposed limestone accents were appropriate.
Hamidi acknowledged the feedback, saying the initial rendering was an early draft. “A lot of people there, including our supporters, didn’t like the design,” he told Block Club. “So we are going to go back to our architect and make those changes.” He emphasized a willingness to reconsider the façade and materials while keeping the building at five stories, which he says is essential for the project’s financial viability.
Project Details and Economic Rationale
The proposed building would rise 57.6 feet, include eight indoor parking spaces, and provide storage for 20 bicycles. Each apartment would feature two bedrooms and two bathrooms, ranging from 980 to 1,180 sq ft. Hamidi noted that the additional floor is central to making the development feasible under the current market conditions; a four‑story building would not justify the purchase price.
He also highlighted the need for more housing in Chicago and the site’s proximity to CTA rail service, suggesting that new residents could support nearby businesses. The developer hopes to attract a tenant for the ground‑floor space that serves the neighborhood, such as a bakery, bagel shop, coffee shop, or small restaurant, and expressed a preference to avoid businesses centered on alcohol or tobacco.
Next Steps and Timeline
Hamidi has experience working with the CTA on another development at 2014 N. Bissell St., which he says will help navigate any additional requirements for this project. He aims to bring the proposal before the City Council in December or January, with construction slated to begin in the spring if approved. The estimated construction period is 18 to 20 months.
McGee’s, a beloved neighborhood sports bar that opened in 1987, closed in December 2025 after nearly four decades. The property was listed for sale following the bar’s closure, and Hamidi first approached the previous owners in the summer after recognizing the site’s development potential.
Public Feedback Continues
Alderman Knudsen’s office will continue to collect feedback through November 23, giving residents additional time to share thoughts on the proposal.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
