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Google plans to make $280 million in renovations to the 17-story
building, which used to be home to Illinois state government
offices. Google bought the 39-year-old building for $105 million
in 2022 when Gov. J.B. Pritzker worked to preserve most of the
building, which many called an “eyesore.”
“Google is one of Chicago’s great corporate citizens and we are
all so very proud to see it become a central feature of downtown
Chicago,” Pritzker at a news conference Monday marking the start
of renovations.
Renderings released by Google last year show a similar-looking
structure, with its trademark atrium still intact.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said it is his goal to attract
more business to the Windy City.
“My administration is committed to furthering our partnership
with the business community and all downtown stakeholders to
ensure that Chicago can continue to grow, and so that businesses
can continue to come here,” said Johnson.
The Thompson Center opened in 1985 and was renamed in 1993 to
honor former Illinois Gov. James R. Thompson.
Google said that 2,000 people will be employed at the Thompson
Center.
The 29-foot tall “Monument with Standing Beast” sculpture, which
has stood outside the building since 1984, has been removed. The
sculpture, nicknamed “Snoopy in a Blender,” will eventually be
displayed at the Art Institute of Chicago.
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