"I worked on that project for eight years; I truly like to book-end projects that I work on," says Carey, who was more than ready to jump at Jones Lang LaSalle's offer, as the Soldier Field makeover was done before the 2003 season, 20 months ahead of schedule. "They were looking for stewardship for development services. It was really wonderful timing for me."
While Carey will be national team leader of Jones Lang LaSalle's sports venue practice, her attention will focus on the $250-million mixed-use redevelopment of Union Station, which doubles as an Amtrak hub as well as Metra's busiest commuter rail terminal. Jones Lang LaSalle and two of its former executives--Stuart Scott and Hossein Youssefi--are proposing an 18-story mixed-use tower above the station bounded by Adams, Canal, Clinton and Jackson streets.
Also joining Jones Lang LaSalle is local architect Joe Caprile, former principal in Lohan Caprile Goettsch and now vice president in the projects and development services group. Like Carey, he also was involved in the Soldier Field redevelopment, as well as nearby North Burnham Park. In addition, he was involved with the 1.3-million-sf SBC Center development in Hoffman Estates, Cityfront Center in the East Loop and served as president of the Chicago Chapter of the American Institute of Architects in 2003.
"I'm thrilled to have him part of this project," says Carey, whose plate also includes relocation of the Chicago Children's Museum. "The guy is fabulous."
War, national economic upheaval and a shift in corporate priorities have derailed other developers' plans, which before Jones Lang LaSalle, had included Prime Group Realty Trust. However, Carey vows the project will happen this time.
"Part of it is perseverance. Part of it is being smart, knowing the context you're working within," the 20-year industry veteran says. "The market has caught up with the wonderful opportunity there."
Carey notes the city's financial center has shifted over the years from LaSalle Street to Wacker Drive, and the Loop has more of a "European" flavor with Downtown workers living nearby.
Teamwork is one lesson she brings to Jones Lang LaSalle from the Bears, who continue to rent Soldier Field from the Chicago Park District. "I truly like a team approach," Carey says. "There are no bad ideas on the table."
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