One of the most iconic buildings in Wrigleyville is being torn down just weeks before Opening Day.
Demolition is underway at 3631 N. Sheffield Ave., one of three historic Wrigley Field rooftop buildings slated to be torn down and replaced with a 29-unit apartment building.
A contractor at the site said the demolition, which began earlier this month, is expected to take up to another week to complete.
Demolition permits have only been issued for 3631 N. Sheffield Ave., while the other two buildings at 3627 and 3633 N. Sheffield Ave. remain intact for now.
Longtime Chicago Cubs fans will recognize the trio of properties at 3627, 3631 and 3633 N. Sheffield Ave. as having housed the famous Torco billboard on its roof and as well as the property that became famous for its “Eamus Catuli” sign — loosely translated from Latin as “Let’s go Cubs.”
That sign hung for years atop 3633 N. Sheffield Ave., but has since moved next door. The “Eamus Catluli” sign was joined for years by another sign that tracked the sad reminder of the Cubs’ futility.
In July, City Council approved the rezoning needed for the project, despite pushback from some neighbors concerned about preserving the century-old buildings and the impact on the neighborhood’s character.
The vote cleared the way for the demolition of 3627, 3631, and 3633 N. Sheffield Ave. and the construction of a five-story, 29-unit apartment building.
The ownership group, led by Marc Anguiano, plans to include 11 parking spaces behind the building and pickleball courts as part of the redevelopment.
The demolition comes just weeks before the Chicago Cubs’ home opener on April 5, when they host the San Diego Padres at Wrigley Field.
