Former President Barack Obama has finally broken ground on his massive presidential center, which has met with controversy over the years.
The groundbreaking took place on Tuesday near Jackson Park in Chicago, with the former president and former first lady Michelle Obama in attendance. During the ceremony for the forthcoming center, Obama stated that he believes the project will inspire future leaders and put his “ideas about democracy and activism and social change to the test.”
Since expressing his interest in placing the Obama Presidential Center on Chicago’s South Side, activists have spoken out against it. Many believe that the building will increase the prices of homes and rent in the neighborhood. Protesters showed up during the event to express their concerns about the center’s impact on local residents.
“Our renters need protections. You shouldn’t be able to buy a building in South Shore and not tell folks that you’re trying to get it. Not renew folks’ lease and try and push them out despite the fact that they’re long-term residents that have been paying,” one protester stated.
Environmentalists have also slammed the project, insisting that it will destroy too many trees and disrupt bird habitats. However, the former commander-in-chief has assured the community that the center will replace the trees and provide wildlife habitats.
The Obamas are confident that this center will create new opportunities for the community by including a museum, gardens, playground, and library. The Obama Foundation said that the development would “breathe new life” into the park and uphold the country’s former leader’s commitment to the city.
The project is expected to open to the public within the next five years and cost approximately $500 million.
