CHICAGO — Related Midwest and Clayton Real Estate Group recently announced their purchase of land where construction will soon begin on Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP), a dynamic quantum innovation campus that will feature a state-of-the-art cryogenic cooling facility.
The IQMP is being constructed at the site of the now decommissioned U.S. Steel South Works, once the world’s largest steel foundry. The facility will occupy 128 acres on the southern end of the site.
The IQMP is being developed for anchor tenant PsiQuantum, a leader in quantum computing technology, and will feature cryogenic facilities, equipment labs and research and office spaces for private companies and universities to collaborate.
WSP’s multidisciplinary engineering team is providing a wide range of services for the project, including mechanical, electrical and plumbing design, site civil, information technology integration, structural engineering, energy consulting and physical security.
“The impact that this project will have on our nation, state, and city is immense. The entire team has risen to the challenge and opportunity," said Matt Herman, senior vice president and project principal for WSP in the U.S. “From utility coordination for cryogenic temperatures, to structural and civil engineers, and environmental experts, we functioned like a team of researchers working together to solve a problem and explore the best solution for a new type of project.”
Quantum computing leverages quantum mechanics to enable faster simulations and calculations than traditional computers. In mere seconds, quantum computers solve problems that would take traditional computers thousands of years. This technology can revolutionize fields such as healthcare, energy and national security.
But these computers can only function in extremely cold—cryogenic—temperatures that require complex cryogenic cooling technology. The decommissioned U.S. Steel South Works site was chosen because it offered space to grow with the quantum computing field, and because it’s location within the Illinois International Port District fulfills needed reliable power.
Lamar Johnson Collaborative is the architect and Clayco serves as design-build teams project contractor.
The first phase of the IQMP will occupy approximately 30 acres and is scheduled for completion in 2027.
“This development is truly future focused,” said John Trotta, senior vice president and Midwest regional executive at WSP in the U.S. “The work that will take place in these complex facilities is exciting and innovative, and our team loved contributing to positive change in this way.”
About WSP in the U.S.
WSP is one of the world’s leading professional services firms, uniting its engineering, advisory and science-based expertise to shape communities to advance humanity. From local beginnings to a globe-spanning presence today, WSP operates in more than 50 countries and employs approximately 73,000 professionals, known as Visioneers. WSP in the U.S.’s team of 19,000 professionals pioneer solutions and deliver innovative projects across the transportation, infrastructure, environment, building, energy, water, and mining and metals sectors.
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