Vienna Beef Ltd. is swapping neighborhoods to stay Chicago-style.
The hot dog producer currently located on 2501 N. Damen Ave. was courted by other states, but Chicago's Community Development Commission on Wednesday approved a $5 million subsidy to fund a move to the Bridgeport neighborhood.
Vienna Beef eyed the move after city officials announced plans in April to reconfigure the six-way Damen-Elston-Fullerton intersection beginning next year. The $36.3 million project, expected to be completed in 2015, aims to relieve congestion and make the traditionally dangerous area safer.
Crain's Chicago Business points out that according to a report prepared for the commission, Vienna Beef said the project's roadway realignment could "impair Vienna's vehicular access, onsite functioning and any future expansion opportunities."
Ald. Scott Waguespack (32nd) told Crain's they tried to make the project's impact minimal on the company, but Vienna Beef said it also wants the opportunity to expand.
The new facility would be located in a 103,445-square-foot factory at 1000 W. Pershing Road.
In return for the subsidy, Crain's reports Vienna Beef must occupy the Bridgeport facility for the next 15 years and employ at least 250 full-time employees.
The City Council must still approve the subsidy, and if it does, construction will begin next December.
