Community Corner
Niles 'Leaning Tower' YMCA Building Torn Down: Report
The demolition marks the start of a "renaissance" according Village of Niles officials.
NILES, IL — The building behind the historic Leaning Tower of Niles is being torn down to be replaced by new development that includes shopping, dining and more, according to reports.
Demolition on the former YMCA residential building, located at 6300 W. Touhy Ave. began at 10 a.m. Monday, according to NBC News. The famous leaning tower will remain unaffected by the demolitions.
In 2021, the YMCA announced it would permanently close the residential building, which included housing units and a gym, due to rising maintenance costs. The Village of Niles purchased the 6.6-acre property for $2.1 million with the goal of transforming it into a mixed-use development.
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Village leaders said the beginning of demolition marks the start of a "renaissance" for Niles, and a step closer to their goal to revitalize the area surrounding the tower.
Read more from NBC News: Niles demolishes ‘Leaning Tower' YMCA building to make way for shopping, entertainment
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