A former dollar store in West Ridge will be redeveloped as the permanent home of American Blues Theater through $2.5 million in Tax Increment Financing (TIF) assistance approved by City Council today.

The $7.1 million project at 5627 N. Lincoln Ave. will reconfigure the 10,700-square-foot building as a 148-seat theater and a 40-seat studio space. The project will also include a lobby, box office, concessions, and exterior parking.

The project is expected to create and retain 10 permanent jobs, along with six temporary construction jobs.

Founded in 1985, American Blues Theater is the second oldest professional ensemble theater in Chicago. Its plays have historically been performed in leased spaces across the city.

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