The $14.8 million renovation of the former Marmon Car Co. showroom at 2230 S. Michigan Ave. on the Near South Side will be supported through a property tax incentive approved today by City Council.

The Class L incentive, valued at $4.4 million over the next 12 years, will support a comprehensive rehabilitation by Motor Row Properties LLC, which intends to store classic cars in the Spanish-style revival structure. The work will include repairs to the terra cotta facade, replacement of the historic main entry, a revamp of the cast iron storefront, new architectural accent lighting, and restoration of the historic car showroom space.

Located in the Motor Row Landmark District, the building was designed by notable architect Alfred S. Alschuler and originally opened in 1922. The stretch of South Michigan Ave. between 14th and 24th streets once housed a collection of lavish automobile dealerships in the early 20th century. It was designated a landmark district by City Council in 2000.

The Class L incentive lowers the rate on designated landmarks or a contributing building in a landmark district undergoing significant rehabilitation.

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