AVONDALE — Firefighters returned to the scene of a two-alarm fire in Avondale multiple times into Tuesday, but it appears to be a best-case scenario for the development housed within.
The fire, which sparked around 7:44 p.m. Monday and took two hours to extinguish, remained in the portion of the complex at 3057 N. Rockwell St. that had yet to be renovated, Ald. Deb Mell (33rd) told DNAinfo Chicago on Tuesday.
"Can't tell you how happy I was when I heard that," said Mell, who supported plans to redevelop the former tannery.
At least 110 emergency responders and 45 engines, trucks and ambulances were on scene Monday night. About 25 remained on scene Tuesday morning as hot spots reignited even after most of the fire was put out.
Power in the four-block area remained out as of 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, but structural engineers were evaluating whether the structure was safe for re-entry. At that point, ComEd and People's Gas will be able to get in and repair outages.
Metropolis Coffee Co., the sole current tenant in the yet-unnamed complex, "isn't touched" by fire damage, but remained closed Tuesday due to the power outage, Mell said.
"It doesn't even really smell [like smoke] in there," she said. "It's pretty amazing."
Paul Levy, known for creating the Bridgeport Arts Center, revealed plans in May to renovate the "substantially vacant" complex and create a hub for local foodies in Avondale.
The yet-unnamed complex at 3057 N. Rockwell St. is meant to become a hub for local foodies, with possible tenants ranging from a cheesemaker to a chocolatier. [DNAinfo/Ben Woodard]
In September, Metropolis Coffee Co. became the first tenant, opening a 18,000-square-foot roastery.
Levy has demolished about 40,000 square feet to shape the complex, which could include up to 10 businesses, offices and 40 parking spots.
In October, Levy sought a zoning change to allow tenants to sell products on site. The Avondale Neighborhood Association was in favor of the change, but asked Levy to add a more scenic riverfront, perhaps with enhanced green space or a bike path.
Levy did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The complex at 3057 N. Rockwell St. [Provided/Rosen Architects]
For more neighborhood news, listen to DNAinfo Radio here:
