The Chicago Department of Planning and Development has approved revised site plans for the second building in the long-awaited Riverline development, located at 910 South Wells Street in the South Loop. The project is being spearheaded by CMK Companies, with renowned architectural firm Gensler serving as the design architect for this significant addition to Chicago's skyline.
The new tower will be strategically positioned near the northern edge of the Riverline site, occupying half of an existing parking lot that is bounded by a planned extension of Taylor Street to the south. According to the approved plans, this Taylor Street extension is designated for a future bridge spanning the Chicago River. The first phase of the Riverline development at 1010 South Wells Street, located south of Taylor Street, has already begun preliminary foundation work earlier this year.
Significant changes have been made to the original design concept for the Riverline project. The initial plans called for a north-south oriented tower configuration, but developers have since rotated the design to run east-west. This strategic repositioning will accommodate an additional tower to the north, positioned adjacent to the existing River City complex. To support this expanded development, the site will feature a large entry drive that will eventually connect to the parking garages of both towers.
The building's design incorporates extensive connectivity to Chicago's renowned Riverwalk system. Extending westward from the main driveway, developers plan to create a beautifully landscaped pedestrian walkway featuring an integrated water feature that will connect directly to an extension of the city's riverwalk. The 28-story tower will rise to a height of 310 feet and will be positioned at the southeast corner of the development site.
The tower's base will feature a substantial three-story podium designed primarily to house 137 parking spaces for residents and visitors. The ground floor has been carefully planned to include a spacious resident amenity area that opens directly onto a riverfront terrace and the pedestrian walkway. Additional ground-floor features include a recessed lobby entrance and approximately 3,300 square feet of retail space along Wells Street, complemented by a small outdoor plaza that will enhance the streetscape.
The residential component of the tower will house 350 units across the upper floors, with layouts expected to include a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments to serve diverse housing needs. Demonstrating a commitment to accessibility, 70 of the total units will be specifically designated as accessible housing. The tower's exterior design will feature a sophisticated multi-toned glass curtain wall system, while the podium will be wrapped in an undulating metal screen that adds visual interest and architectural depth.
With planning approval now secured, the project can move forward once construction permits are obtained and financing arrangements are finalized. While developers have not yet established a specific construction timeline, the 910 Wells tower is expected to begin construction after the completion of the first Riverline building at 1010 Wells Street, ensuring coordinated development of this major South Loop project.
