One Central study, underground development hits roadblock, and more

One Central megaproject study set to start as Dunn eyes $6.5 billion in state subsidies: At long last, the state of Illinois appears ready to begin a detailed study of whether the proposed One Central megaproject makes financial sense — a study that, depending on the results, could kill off the South Loop proposal once and for all or clear the way for developer Bob Dunn to get the $6.5 billion state subsidy he wants. The study will be conducted by a private group retained by the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity. DCEO received bidders in January in response to a request for proposal and is expected to select a vendor soon. (Crain's Chicago Business)

Ozingas’ underground development on Southeast Side may be dead due to mining ban: A massive underground warehouse development proposed for a long-dormant piece of former steel mill land on the Southeast Side may be dead on arrival as City Hall officials signal that a ban on mining likely prohibits the project from being approved. For more than two years, the Ozinga family, owners of the namesake concrete and materials business, has pushed the idea of a 6 million square foot commercial space below the surface that drops down 350 feet deep along the Calumet River near East 112th Street. (Chicago Sun-Times)

Vintage business signs could be saved under proposed ordinance: In the 2012 book “Signs, Streets and Storefronts,” author Martin Treu wrote that old neon signs “often serve as important urban landmarks.” They “help to visually identify key locations in a city, marking them with distinct visual icons,” he wrote, and give streets “character and animation, reinforcing local history.” Mayor Brandon Johnson and his new City Council floor leader obviously agree. At Wednesday’s Council meeting, Johnson introduced an ordinance aimed at protecting Chicago’s most iconic “vintage signs,” including the Grace’s Furniture sign in Logan Square. (Chicago Sun-Times)

Austin’s Landmarked Seth Warner Home, One Of Chicago's Oldest, Damaged In Fire: One of Chicago’s oldest homes caught fire early Thursday, injuring a firefighter in the process. The fire occurred at 631 N. Central Ave. with the roof suffering extensive damage, Fire Department officials said. The owner, civil rights attorney James Bowers, was asleep at home with his wife when the fire started. The couple managed to escape unharmed with their four cats, he said. Two neighbors across the street say they saw fire from the top of the roof around 1:30 a.m. Thursday, lasting for roughly an hour. Fire Department officials said one firefighter was hospitalized and is in good condition. No other injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is not yet known, officials said. The home was built by abolitionist Seth Warner in 1869 and designated last year as a Chicago landmark. (Block Club Chicago)