(from chicago.curbed.com)
After two and a half years of rumors surrounding a possible name change of Chicago’s John Hancock Center, a new report suggests that the likelihood of such a change is more real than ever. According to theChicago Tribune, The Hearn Company, the owner of the iconic 100-story supertall skyscraper, is marketing the hulking mid-century tower’s office space and its naming rights for sale. According to Tribune reporter Ryan Ori, the deal could earn Hearn Co. $330 million.
It’s been known as The Hancock Building for 48 years. I think there should be a grandfather clause. Sears Tower was renamed after 36 years and we all still call it SEARS TOWER!! The 101WKQX radio tower is on top of the Hancock. So much history. It seems wrong that it all comes down to someone buying the naming rights to a building. Maybe we could all pitch in and just name it The Oprah Tower or Tower of Jordan. At least if it’s got to be renamed it could be renamed something that won’t change again when the next naming owner’s contract is up.
