Sterling Bay Lincoln Yard Technology Master Plan

Level-1 developed the Technology Master Plan for Lincoln Yards, integrating smart infrastructure to power Chicago’s next-generation mixed-use district.

Sterling Bay’s Lincoln Yards is poised to redefine what it means to live, work, and connect in Chicago. Spanning more than 50 acres along the North Branch of the Chicago River, this ambitious mixed-use development envisions a future-forward urban district where innovation, sustainability, and technology intersect. As the site transforms into a new hub for businesses, residences, green space, and cultural infrastructure, Sterling Bay partnered with Level-1 Global Solutions to develop a comprehensive Technology Master Plan that lays the groundwork for a digitally connected, smart-city ecosystem at scale. 

Level-1 was tasked with facilitating a master planning process that evaluated, scoped, and integrated future-ready technology infrastructure across the district. Unlike traditional developments, Lincoln Yards demanded coordination across multiple building types and public spaces, all within a unified framework for performance, adaptability, and data-rich operations. Level-1 convened interactive workshops with Sterling Bay leadership and strategic partners including Endurant Energy to identify scalable solutions that would enhance tenant experience, future-proof the site, and attract innovation-minded occupants. Every system from wireless and fiber infrastructure to access control, cyber security, autonomous mobility, and district-scale renewable energy was analyzed for lifecycle value, cost, sustainability, and long-term functionality. 

Our Scope Included 

• Facilitation of visioning workshops to define Lincoln Yards’ smart infrastructure goals and performance expectations 
• District-wide planning of high-bandwidth wireless infrastructure and fiber with dual-feed redundancy 
• Coordination with Endurant Energy for renewable district energy systems integrated with AI-based controls 
• Evaluation of power, data storage, and surveillance solutions for interconnected buildings and shared public realm 
• Cybersecurity strategy layered at both building and campus levels 
• Planning for autonomous vehicle circulation and future-ready EV charging systems 
• Exploration and vetting of advanced building systems for HVAC, lighting, and audiovisual integration 
• Cost modeling and timeline alignment to match phased development schedules 
• Preparation of a full Technology Program Summary detailing performance requirements, systems descriptions, budgets, and implementation timelines 

By approaching the Lincoln Yards project as a living, learning urban ecosystem, Level-1 has helped Sterling Bay plan the foundation for a smart district that will evolve with time. Designed to support convenience, security, sustainability, and adaptability, the master plan is a blueprint for shaping Chicago’s next iconic neighborhood through intelligent and future-focused infrastructure.