Demolition of Damen Silos on Southwest Side Set to Begin

The Demolition of the Historic Damen Silos Begins

The demolition of the historic Damen Silos on Chicago’s Southwest Side officially began on Monday, despite a long-standing effort by preservationists and community groups to save them. These structures, located at 2860 S. Damen Ave. near the Stevenson Expressway, have stood since 1906, but were abandoned after an accident in 1977. The Chicago Department of Buildings described the demolition as “environmentally complex,” citing concerns about dust, air quality, and water preservation.

The city plans to take down the silos gradually, without using explosives. For decades, the Damen Silos have been recognized as a local landmark, representing a piece of Chicago's history when the city was a major player in the grain industry. Originally built in 1906 by the Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad, the site had grain silos dating back to the 19th century. The structure was rebuilt after an explosion and fire in 1932, but it closed permanently following another large explosion in 1977.

Despite their historical significance, the silos have become a symbol of urban exploration and pop culture, appearing in the film Transformers: Age of Extinction, where they were destroyed during a fictional battle. Preservationists and community members have fought for years to save the old grain elevators, proposing ideas such as converting the property into a public space like a garden, park, or event area, similar to Chicago’s Salt Shed.

However, the property’s owner, Michael Tadin Jr., who also owns MAT Asphalt, purchased the buildings from the State of Illinois in 2022 for approximately $6.5 million and has refused to sell. Tadin filed permits for the demolition, but the future of the 23-acre land remains uncertain.

Neighbors expressed disappointment over the decision, with Kate Eakin, managing director of the McKinley Park Development Council, stating, “It’s a sad day that they’re actually starting the demolition now after people have worked so hard.” She emphasized that the fight is not over, and there will be opportunities to secure public amenities on the site.

Environmental concerns are also at the forefront of the debate. Residents worry about the impact of the demolition on the surrounding area, particularly the Chicago River. Phil Nicodemus, research director at the nonprofit Urban Rivers, noted that the silos are located along the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal, which is public water. Urban Rivers has volunteered to monitor the demolition’s effects on the river system, testing for metals and water clarity, among other factors.

The city’s Department of Buildings is working alongside the Chicago Department of Public Health and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to ensure proper monitoring of air, water, and dust control. The demolition project is expected to continue until November, according to Ald. Julia Ramirez (26th). As of late Monday, the demolition had not yet begun, though equipment was already in place.

CBS News Chicago attempted to reach the property owner for comment but has not received a response. A statement from Chicago Department of Buildings Commissioner Marlene Hopkins highlighted the city’s commitment to safety and environmental responsibility:

“Since receiving the five demolition permit applications for the Damen Silos site, my department has worked closely with the Chicago Department of Public Health to implement a comprehensive framework for this environmentally complex demolition. This isn’t just about issuing permits in accordance with code—it’s about accountability and going beyond minimum requirements when community safety demands it.”

The city emphasized that the permits issued reflect months of coordinated work and a commitment to protecting residents, especially those in communities facing existing environmental challenges. The voices of McKinley Park residents have played a key role in shaping the process, and the city hopes for a successful demolition that meets high standards.

As the demolition proceeds, the community remains vigilant, determined to ensure that the site’s future includes public spaces and environmental safeguards. The fate of the Damen Silos marks a significant moment in Chicago’s ongoing struggle between development and preservation.