PsiQuantum to Transform South Chicago’s U.S. Steel Site into Quantum Computing Campus
Charles Spencer
PsiQuantum has announced plans to develop a large-scale quantum computing campus on Chicago’s Far South Side, transforming the long-vacant U.S. Steel South Works site. The Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park will house the world’s first commercially viable quantum computer, positioning Chicago as a hub for advanced tech.
Southworks Quantum Computing Project Development
- Backed by $500 million in state funding, including $200 million for a cryogenic cooling plant, the campus will cover 128 acres on the lakefront property.
- This development is expected to bring hundreds of construction jobs and 250 permanent roles in quantum computing, with officials projecting a $20 billion economic impact over the next decade.
Economic Goals vs. Community Concerns: While state and city officials champion the project as a pathway to technological and economic growth, local residents have raised concerns. South Chicago community groups are calling for a community benefits agreement, emphasizing the need for local hiring commitments, environmental protections, and affordable housing initiatives to prevent displacement.
“We want assurances that the project will benefit our community—not just investors,” said Oscar Sanchez, co-executive director of the Southeast Environmental Task Force.
Environmental Impact and Power Needs: The campus, planned in partnership with Related Midwest and designed by Lamar Johnson Collaborative, will utilize Lake Michigan for cooling purposes. However, residents have questioned the potential environmental impact and the strain on local power infrastructure. PsiQuantum has pledged to use 100% carbon-free electricity to mitigate these concerns.
Next Steps: Pending final approvals, construction is slated to begin in 2026. The first phase of the campus will feature a 300,000-square-foot facility housing a quantum computer with a million-qubit capacity—an unprecedented scale.
As plans move forward, South Chicago residents continue to push for transparency and community involvement to ensure this historic development benefits the neighborhood as much as the tech industry.
