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Writer's pictureErica Trejo

Chicago's South Works: Leading the Quantum Technology Revolution

Plans are underway for the construction of the Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park (IQMP) at the former U.S. Steel South Works site on Chicago's South Side, which ceased operations more than three decades ago. The reimagined steel mill location is poised to become the site of an innovative Quantum Computer. Both civic and business leaders anticipate significant implications for the Chicagoland area and upcoming industries. By 2027, the once-shuttered U.S. Steel mill will be transformed into the Quantum Computing Campus, spanning an estimated 300,000 square feet.


Last month, the SSBA welcomed Thomas Anderson of the Mayor's Office to present at our monthly networking lunch. Anderson aids the Economic and Neighborhood Development Department and was crucial in explaining the latest approved development on Chicago's south side - The Quantum Computer Campus.


Located at 8080 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago welcomes a new project focused on transforming the former South Works site into a hub for quantum and microelectronics innovation. This development aims to place Chicago at the forefront of the quantum technology revolution, fostering growth and collaboration in cutting-edge fields.


This project aims to establish Chicago as a hub for quantum technology by transforming the South Works site into an innovation center for quantum and microelectronics. Quantum computing is expected to revolutionize industries by advancing green energy, life-saving drug design, and optimizing supply chains and financial services. This project will not only drive technological advancements but also create hundreds of jobs, fostering growth in Illinois' critical sectors.



Phase 1: Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Innovation Hub

The IQMP (Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Innovation Hub) is a pioneering 128-acre campus designed to scale up quantum computing and support related research in quantum and advanced microelectronics. This hub will serve as a center for innovation, advancing the development of quantum technologies and fostering collaboration among researchers and industries.




“Quantum computers have held theoretical promise for decades, but it’s infrastructure projects like the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park that are required to develop this technology and scale from hype to reality. Governor Pritzker and Illinois understand what’s needed to unlock quantum computing’s potential, and we’re thrilled to partner with them and anchor the state’s quantum strategy with the first utility-scale quantum computer in the United States at this iconic location”

— Prof. Jeremy O’Brien, PsiQuantum CEO & co-founder.



About PsiQuantum

PsiQuantum, a leading quantum computing company founded in 2015, will anchor the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Innovation Hub (IQMP). With 320 employees across locations in California, Illinois, New York, and Washington, D.C., PsiQuantum aims to build and deploy the world’s first useful quantum computers, contributing to the growth and success of the hub's quantum technology initiatives.


To strengthen the Quantum Park and achieve a robust quantum ecosystem, PsiQuantum will collaborate with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Chicago, University of Illinois Chicago, and Northwestern University. Together, they will advance research and explore educational opportunities in quantum applications. PsiQuantum’s Chicago operations will create at least 150 jobs over the next five years, developing a skilled workforce in quantum physics, engineering, software development, and technical lab work.


PsiQuantum is committed to working with the community by creating job opportunities in both construction and quantum technology fields. The project will also enhance green spaces, including Steelworkers Park and Rainbow Beach, while addressing environmental concerns through sustainable practices. Additionally, PsiQuantum will invest in the community, minimizing impacts on traffic, housing, and transportation.







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