- Credibility:
WICKER PARK — A Chase bank branch could be taking over the site of a former late-night bar in the heart of Wicker Park.
Chase is hoping to open a location at 1954. W. North Ave., at the intersection of Milwaukee, Damen and North avenues, according to a notice posted on the property. The ground floor is boarded up and under construction.
The building was formerly home to Wicker Park Tavern, known as just Tavern, which closed in 2017.
A Chase spokesperson confirmed the company is eyeing the location for a branch and said additional details will be shared as they become available. Chase operates branches nearby at 1849 W. North Ave. and 1959 W. Division St.
“We’re deeply committed to our customers in Bucktown and Wicker Park and are working on plans to bring a beautiful new Chase branch to the Milwaukee/North/Damen intersection,” Market Director Claudia Guzman said in a statement. “We’re excited to be a part of the ongoing development of this vibrant neighborhood and look forward to sharing more details soon.”

J.P. Morgan Chase has applied for a zoning classification to open the bank, which requires approval from the city’s Zoning Board of Appeals. That process is ongoing, a Chase spokesperson said Tuesday.
Tavern opened at northeast corner of Milwaukee, Damen and North avenues in 2005. Open until 5 a.m. Sundays, the bar was known as a late-night haunt. The building had been home to one bar or another since 1979, DNAinfo previously reported.
Bank of America previously operated a branch across the street in the Flat Iron building, which is now vacant.
Listen to “It’s All Good: A Block Club Chicago Podcast”: