Obama describes presidential center
CHICAGO — Former President Barack Obama unveiled plans for his future presidential center Wednesday, painting a picture of a buzzing hub for youth and community programs on the South Side of Chicago where he raised his family and launched his political career.
Obama fielded questions from residents at a forum near the site, delving into nitty-gritty details of traffic patterns, green space and job creation.
“What we want this to be is the world premiere institution for training young people and leadership to make a difference in their communities, in their countries and in the world,” he said.
The Obama Presidential Center, near Lake Michigan, will feature three structures, including a tower-like museum, tree-lined walkways, a public plaza and even a sledding hill.
Obama said construction would take about four years but that programming would begin this year. He said he and Michelle Obama, who also attended Wednesday, would personally donate $2 million to summer job efforts in the city.
“This is about reaching out right now,” he said.
Obama hopes the library can spur economic activity in the area, which includes downtrodden neighborhoods. Obama projected the center would create thousands of jobs, including temporary construction jobs and up to 300 permanent positions.
The project is expected to cost hundreds of millions of dollars, and fundraising is underway.
Obama envisions recording studios where musicians can help young people and space for movie directors to take on community storytelling. The center also is to have exhibits with campaign memorabilia and personal artifacts.
“Let’s face it, we want to see Michelle’s dresses,” he said jokingly.