In March 2009, the Center for Real Estate Law co-sponsored a Burnham Plan Centennial program with the Center for Tax and Employee Benefits titled, “The Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit and the Modern Cityscape.” This well-attended program connected professionals from real estate law, development and historic preservation to discuss rehabilitating and improving Chicago’s important cultural history.

Academic Speakers:

• Jim Peters, President and CEO of Landmarks Illinois, moderated a dynamic panel of legal practitioners, consultants and architects. The panel discussed how the historic rehabilitation tax credit and other incentive programs entice developers to rehabilitate historic structures for vital new uses.
• Glenn Graff, partner at Applegate & Thorne-Thomsen, provided the legal background for historic redevelopment by explaining the historic rehabilitation tax credit.
• Steve Friedland, partner at Applegate & Thorne-Thomsen, provided the legal background for historic redevelopment by explaining zoning and other public entitlements.
• Allen Johnson, a director at MacRostie Historic Advisors LLC, explained how entitlement programs allow developers to revitalize white elephant buildings into productive uses for the community.
• Anne Sullivan's presentation wrapped up the program by highlighting prominent rehabilitation projects in Chicago that utilized these incentive programs.