Salt Shed Owners File Plan for Massive New Venue
The proposed 15,000-capacity amphitheater would expand the entertainment district on Goose Island.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Other — General
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The owners of the Salt Shed have filed a zoning request to develop a new 15,000-person outdoor venue on a 10.5-acre site near 1401-1459 N. Magnolia Ave. The project aims to build on the success of the existing venue by adding a new amphitheater, bar, and public plaza.
Why it matters
The proposed expansion seeks to grow the entertainment presence on Goose Island, continuing the development of the industrial area into a concert district. The project remains in the early stages as it awaits city approval and acquisition of the target property.
The proposed site covers 10.5 acres and includes plans for a 15,000-person capacity amphitheater. The facility development plan also includes 80 parking spots, with the overall project cost estimated between $60 million and $70 million.
The players
The Salt Shed
This music venue and entertainment district located at 1357 N. Elston Ave. first opened in 2022.
Chicago Plan Commission
This municipal body is responsible for reviewing and approving zoning changes and large-scale development projects within the city.
The details
Converting the former industrial property into an entertainment space requires extensive upgrades to sewer and water systems as well as the rebuilding of seawalls. The developers are seeking a zoning change and must receive approval from the city Plan Commission to move forward.
Timeline
The existing Salt Shed venue opened in 2022.
Owners explored options to buy the properties in 2025.
The zoning request was officially filed in October 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The project follows the broader trend of the industrial revitalization of the Chicago River North Branch corridor. It represents an extension of ongoing efforts to transform former industrial sites along the river into high-capacity entertainment hubs.
Residents and concertgoers may see a significant increase in local event capacity if the 15,000-person venue is approved. The expansion would shift the entertainment footprint on Goose Island and potentially influence event availability in the area.
The takeaway
The proposed venue highlights the continued conversion of Chicago industrial land into major event spaces. Residents should watch for upcoming public hearings as the owners seek city subsidies and the necessary zoning permits.
Further reading
For more context on ongoing developments in the city, see Chicago Other — General.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Block Club Chicago.
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