Chicago's Navy Pier is getting a new manager.
The Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority announced Wednesday it will turn over the popular tourist destination to a new non-profit corporation with a board made up of 13 civic leaders. The corporation will govern and manage Navy Pier.
The announcement comes after authority trustee Jim Reilly recommended creating a non-profit corporation in a report on Navy Pier's future to the Illinois governor and General Assembly.
Reilly wrote that Navy Pier is "past due" for a major revitalization that requires a stable, dedicated civic board.
When it comes to changing the venue, Reilly opined that any plans should not include a casino. He said he would also like to see the Children's Museum change its mind about leaving and heading to Bicentennial Park, and he said he'd like to see the Shakespeare Theater expand.
The authority will continue to own Navy Pier and any major physical changes to the pier would need its approval.
Non-Profit Board to Manage Navy Pier
Trustee says he doesn't want a casino, and wants Children's Museum to stay
Copyright AP - Associated Press
