Google Delays Thompson Center Opening to 2028 in Chicago

Google has pushed the opening of its Chicago Thompson Center project into 2028, Bisnow reported. The project update marks another delay for the high-profile Loop redevelopment, which had most recently targeted early 2027.

Opening Timeline Moves Again

Google first announced plans for the Thompson Center in 2022 and initially targeted a 2026 move-in. The company later shifted that target to early 2027.

Its latest announcement now says the building will officially open to Google employees, tenants, and the public in 2028. Google did not provide a reason for the new delay.

The company also released new atrium renderings and selected artist Sanford Biggers to create a sculpture for the building’s plaza.

The new schedule means the project is now two years later than the target Google announced when it first committed to the property in 2022.

The Details

Google agreed in July 2022 to buy the redeveloped building for $105M. It is expected to occupy at least 600K SF of the renovated 954K SF property.

That leaves about 354K SF available for other tenants. Google tapped CBRE in March to handle office leasing and Savills to handle retail leasing.

Construction began in May 2024. A joint venture of The Prime Group and Capri Investment Group is working on the redevelopment of the Helmut Jahn-designed building.

The redevelopment will combine Google’s own large office footprint with space for outside tenants. Retail leasing is also part of the project’s remaining commercial program.

Why It Matters

The Thompson Center redevelopment remains a closely watched office project in the Loop. Many in Chicago CRE have viewed Google’s move as a potential boost for downtown activity.

The timing also overlaps with office-to-residential conversion efforts along the LaSalle Street corridor. The delay means the city will wait longer to see the project’s full effect.

Google’s planned 600K SF commitment still makes the redevelopment a major office occupancy story. The remaining 354K SF also creates a meaningful leasing assignment for other tenants.

The project has been tied to broader hopes for more activity in downtown Chicago. Its large occupancy commitment gives the opening date significance beyond one corporate move.

What’s Next

Redevelopment work will continue toward the new 2028 opening target. Leasing teams will also market the remaining office and retail space while construction advances.

The next milestones are likely to come from project progress, tenant leasing, or another schedule update. For now, Google has not given a more precise 2028 opening date.