A former fire station in Rogers Park is set to be restored for community use by a local development team, according to a June 2 announcement. Developer Ryan Cummings and Michael Salvatore of Heritage Hospitality Group are leading the effort to revitalize the former Engine Co. #102 firehouse at 1721-23 W. Greenleaf Ave.
Cummings said they hope to open a cafe, bar or similar business on the ground floor, with event space and co-working options on the second floor. The city selected their proposal following a request for proposals issued in October, and the team plans to purchase the building for just over $350,000.
The firehouse was active from 1915 until its closure in 2009 when operations moved to another location. Since then, several redevelopment ideas have been proposed—including converting it into a Hindu temple or headquarters for social service groups—but none were successful.
Cummings has experience in development and real estate and currently works at Nicholson Construction. Salvatore founded Heritage Coffee & Bikes in Lakeview as well as Heritage Outpost and Larry’s bar in Uptown’s Lawrence House building. Both developers live in Rogers Park.
“I feel confident with my background to be able to do the construction side of it, and with [Salvatore] and my wife, who has some hospitality experience as well, for them to make it a functioning business as well,” Cummings said.
The project’s scope will be determined after financing is finalized over the coming months. Cummings plans to apply later this summer for a Community Development Grant that could help fund construction or rehabilitation work aimed at sparking neighborhood investment. He also said he heard from neighbors and Alderman Maria Hadden that there is demand locally for a “third space” where people can spend time during the day or plan an evening out, “That’s kind of the void we’re trying to fill,” he said.