Obama Unveils Plans for Presidential Library and Museum on Chicago’s South Side
The Vision
Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have unveiled plans for the Obama Presidential Center, a three-building complex that will be built in Jackson Park on Chicago’s South Side. The center will include a museum, a forum, and a library, as well as a surrounding campus designed to revitalize the historic park.
The Campus
The Obama Presidential Center will be constructed to LEED v4 Platinum standards, the highest sustainability rating for a commercial or public building. The buildings will span approximately 200,000 to 225,000 square feet and will be surrounded by landscaped roofs that will offer visitors views of Lake Michigan.
The Library
Unlike traditional presidential libraries, the Obama Library will not house paper copies of the former president’s documents. Instead, it will feature digitized copies of all unclassified documents from his administration. The originals will be maintained by the National Archives and Records Administration.
The Museum
The Obama Museum will be the centerpiece of the campus, standing 180 feet tall. It will house Obama’s presidential museum, as well as an exhibition space, public spaces, offices, and education and meeting rooms.
The Forum
The Obama Forum will be a single-story building that will serve as a center for community events and public discourse. It will include a variety of meeting spaces and event facilities.
The Impact
The Obama Presidential Center is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to the South Side each year, stimulating economic growth in the surrounding neighborhoods. It will also serve as a hub for community events and educational programs.
Obama’s Connection to the South Side
Barack Obama has a deep connection to Chicago’s South Side, where he began his career in public service. He has said that the values he learned in this community have shaped his life and presidency.
Summer Jobs Initiative
In conjunction with the announcement of the Presidential Center, the Obamas also announced a $2 million donation to summer jobs programs on the South Side. They said they wanted to start helping the local economy now, rather than waiting for the campus to be completed.
Legacy
The Obama Presidential Center is a testament to the former president’s commitment to public service and his belief in the power of community. It is a place where people can learn about his presidency, engage in public discourse, and be inspired to make a difference in the world.
