ZBA approves variances for mixed-use entertainment center

The Zoning Board of Appeals has approved a set of variations for a mixed-use entertainment complex at 7052 S. Jeffery. Located at the northwest corner of E. 71st Street and S. Jeffery Boulevard, the project is being developed by Alisa Starks of South Shore Commercial Properties. The site is currently home to the former Jeffery Theater and Urban Partnership Bank buildings, which will be demolished to build the complex.

Designed by TK Architects, the mixed-use center will include a full-service Creole restaurant, a seven-screen dine-in cinema, an eight-lane bowling alley and events space. The building will include 12 parking spaces.

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a set of variations including a variation to reduce the amount of street facing transparent window area required along 71st street from 716.11 square feet to 551.28 square feet and along Jeffrey Boulevard from 528.19 square feet to 357.42 square feet, a variation to allow a facade that is greater than 5 feet from the sidewalk, and a variation to allow two proposed driveways for access to parking and loading for a property that is required to comply with pedestrian street standards.

Additional variations included a variation to reduce the number of off-street parking spaces for a transit served location from sixty-five to twelve parking spaces, and a variation to establish a public place of amusement license to be located within 125 feet of a residential use.

With the ZBA approvals secured, the developer can turn towards permitting and construction. A new construction permit has already been filed for the building and the project will need to secure demo permits to clear the site. According to reports from Block Club Chicago, the developer expects to break ground on construction in the Spring with the grand opening targeted for late 2026.