Chicago Seeks Control Of Long-Vacant Old Post Office Site

CHICAGO (AP) — The city of Chicago is taking steps to seize control of the massive old main Post Office, which has sat vacant and deteriorating for more than two decades.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel's office said in a news release Saturday the city is seeking to take control of the 11-acre site from a private developer through the eminent domain process. Emanuel said the city will also issue a call for bids to redevelop what he called "one of Chicago's iconic structures."

International Property Developers North America Inc. bought the property in 2009 and has drawn up plans to transform the building into a retail, residential and entertainment center.

But the city says no work was ever completed.

The company did not respond to an email seeking comment.

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