• Posted: July 29, 2021
• better construction, contactless office, electrical technology

Powering Chicago’s Executive Director Elbert Walters III recently spoke on a panel titled “Back to the Suburbs,” discussing trends that happened due to the pandemic and where the suburbs currently stand. Sponsored by Bisnow, a multi-platform digital media company that produces news and live events,  the panel was moderated by John Meyer of 33 Realty in Chicago. Walters was joined by fellow panelists Patrick Clay, Director of Business Development at ARCO/Murray; Michelle Mills Clement, CEO of the Chicago Association of REALTORS®; and Liz Holland, CEO of Abbell Associates. Walters spoke about the role that contactless technologies play in returning to normal and what he envisions being the future of the Chicago suburbs. 

“We have to incorporate technology going forward. If we can graft something wonderful out of this pandemic it is that it forced us to look at things differently,” said Elbert Walters III, executive director of Powering Chicago. “Incorporating different technology, specifically contactless technology, allows for us to continue to operate in spaces, while addressing social distancing issues.”

Other panelists debunked the myth that there was a huge exodus from urban living during the pandemic. Rather, according to Michelle Mills Clement of the Chicago Association of REALTORS®, many downtown Chicagoans moved right outside of the downtown area to secure more square footage. Mills Clement also cited the biggest problem facing the suburbs and the city as a lack of inventory, resulting in competitive pricing and properties going for over listing. According to Mills, there’s no indication of that trend slowing.

When asked what the future of the suburbs looks like, Walters had one word to share with attendees.
“It’s an opportunity. If there is a mass movement to go to the suburbs to acquire more space, that means that the demand for infrastructure will be there,” said Walters. “I’m excited about what the opportunity provides.”