CHICAGO – Underscoring the state’s commitment to preserving and elevating sites that honor Black leadership, economic progress and cultural resilience, State Senator Elgie R. Sims Jr. helped announce a transformative partnership to restore and redevelop the historic Hotel Florence – along with other key buildings – within the Pullman State Historic Site on Chicago’s South Side.
“I am incredibly proud to be from and represent the Pullman community,” said State Senator Elgie R. Sims Jr. (D-Chicago), who also represents the Pullman Historic District. “This forward-thinking partnership is not only a direct result of our responsible, community-centered budgeting efforts — it’s a momentous opportunity that will breathe new life into the Hotel Florence, transform the Pullman Historic Site and strengthen our broader community.”
Through the project, the 1881 Hotel Florence, its annex, portions of the Pullman Car Works building and surrounding grounds will be restored – transforming the site into a boutique hotel, dining destination and cultural and performing arts hub. As the cradle of the first Black labor union recognized by a major U.S. corporation – the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters – the site stands at the center of one of the most important chapters in American labor and Black history, playing a defining role in shaping worker protections nationwide.
The project investment, representing the first major public-private partnership undertaken by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, leverages $21 million in state funding approved by the General Assembly, in turn unlocking more than $83 million in private investment committed by the Celadon Construction Corporation. Additional private capital commitments are expected over the life of a 75-year agreement to ensure long-term preservation and operations — maximizing taxpayer dollars while addressing deferred maintenance and modernizing one of Illinois’ most culturally significant historic assets.
The redevelopment is expected to bring hospitality, new visitors and strengthened economic development to Chicago’s South Side community.
