The future of the E2 nightclub building is in limbo following the 2003 tragedy

CHICAGO – A stampede at E2 nightclub in the South Loop in 2003 left 21 people dead and more than 50 injured. Now the empty building is at the center of the debate and its future is in question.

An hour-long hearing Thursday gave community members and relatives of the victims an opportunity to voice their opinions. However, no decision has been made on whether the building at 2347 South Michigan Ave., which once housed a Fiat dealership, will remain standing.

Although the building does not have landmark status, it is located in the Motor Row District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is considered one of the largest intact 20th century motor rows in the United States

The building's owner needs permission from the Landmarks Commission to make any changes.

Over the summer, the commission rejected his request to demolish the former nightclub, even though the city's building department had deemed it unsafe and called for demolition or restoration.

The owner's attorney, Randy Shifrin, said they are ready to move forward but cannot proceed without the city's approval.

Local activist Takala Welch holds a vigil for the victims every year and voiced her opinion.

“The new owner met and talked to people. A very compassionate guy, very open ideas. If it stays here as a landmark, it will probably cost the owner three times as much money to fix this place up…” Welch said.

The Landmarks Commission is expected to make a final decision on the demolition request next month before sending its recommendation to the Chicago City Council.