(from timeout.com)

The city is hoping a proposed $500 million renovation of the Sears Tower will make the iconic, yet formidable looking building feel more open and accessible to the public. Plans for Chicago’s tallest building include six levels of new retail and entertainment space, enhancements to the famous Skydeck observation area and a 30,000-square-foot outdoor deck and winter garden. On Tuesday, Mayor Rahm Emanuel disclosed some specific details of proposed upgrades to the building, which is owned by private equity and real estate investment firm Blackstone. “[Blackstone] is investing half a billion dollars in an iconic building,” Emanuel told the Sun-Times. “It’s an investment in the South Loop… [Sears Tower] will be more receptive to foot traffic for people coming, staying longer and also not going outside the South Loop for lunch. It’s gonna be a tremendous draw.” (MORE HERE)

Can I suggest a FAST PASS for locals trying to take their cousins to the Sears Tower real quick before they have to be on a plane back to Boise. Also how about a roller coaster!?!