Foundry Park’s Forward Progress Marks an Exciting Moment for Chicago Real Estate in 2026

Chicago has been waiting for progress on the Lincoln Yards site, and now things are finally shifting in a major way. The Foundry Park development — a transformative mixed-use neighborhood planned along the Chicago River — is taking meaningful steps toward construction, and here at Option Premier, we couldn’t be more excited to see this site come alive!

A New Era for a Key Chicago Site

For years, the former Lincoln Yards North site sat largely untouched after earlier plans stalled. Now, Chicago–based developers JDL Development and Kayne Anderson Real Estate are moving forward with a bold new vision—one focused on walkability, housing variety, green space, and community-oriented design.

Recent filings with the City of Chicago include a zoning application for the reimagined site, signaling crucial progress toward approvals that could clear the way for construction as early as Fall 2026.

What Makes Foundry Park So Special

Foundry Park promises to be much more than another development — it’s being planned as a vibrant, inclusive neighborhood. Highlights include:

  • Mixed housing options: Plans call for thousands of residential units, including apartments, condos, townhomes, and single-family homes — offering choices for a broad spectrum of residents.

  • Retail, hospitality & work spaces: With retail storefronts, office space, and a centrally located hotel included in early phase designs, Foundry Park aims to be a lively day-to-night destination.

  • Plentiful public open space: About one-third of the site will be dedicated to parks, plazas, riverfront walks, playgrounds, and even dog-friendly areas — reconnecting Chicagoans to the river.

  • A central public square: Early plans show a welcoming open lawn at the heart of phase one — a spot for community events, gatherings, and everyday enjoyment.

All of this new activity promises to knit this long-idle land back into the fabric of Chicago’s North Side, filling it with the kind of energy residents, homebuyers, and investors have been eager to see.

Why This Matters for Buyers & the Chicago Market

At Option Premier, we always have our finger on the pulse of developments that shape where and how people live in Chicago. Foundry Park’s progress signals:

  • New housing inventory in desirable locations — great for buyers looking for future value or community living.

  • Enhanced lifestyle amenities — riverwalks, parks, retail, and hotel accommodations add vibrancy to the area.

  • Long-term neighborhood growth — this could be a major catalyst for continued development along the Chicago River corridor.

We’re Excited — and You Should Be Too!

Chicago’s real estate market continues to evolve, and Foundry Park represents a major piece of that story. From the exciting potential for housing diversity to revitalized public spaces that bring people together, this development marks a new beginning for a long-awaited site.

Option Premier is proud to follow this project and share updates with you as the city moves closer to groundbreaking — and we’re here to help you make the most of every opportunity that comes with it.

Stay tuned for more insights, and reach out if you’d like to talk about how developments like Foundry Park might impact your real estate goals right here in Chicago!

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Ranked as a top 1% team in the Chicagoland market, Cory Tanzer and the Cory Tanzer Group specialize in the Chicago, North Shore, and Western Suburbs real estate market. With deep local market expertise and a proven track record, Cory and his team help clients buy and sell with clarity, confidence, and results.