IBM is set to establish a significant presence on Chicago's South Side with the creation of the National Quantum Algorithm Center, aiming to push the boundaries of quantum technology. This initiative is part of a broader effort by Governor JB Pritzker, alongside state officials and economic development agencies, to position Illinois as a preeminent hub in the quantum computing field.
The announcement, made on Thursday, outlines plans for a facility that will converge experts and researchers focused on integrating quantum computers with traditional systems to tackle complex computational problems. The centre will also host IBM’s Quantum System Two, a state-of-the-art quantum computer designed for ongoing upgrades aligned with technological advancements.
Quantum technology draws on principles of quantum mechanics, which govern subatomic particles, allowing for calculations and tasks that would be prohibitively time-consuming for conventional machines. Given its potential, the establishment of this facility is seen as a critical step toward harnessing these capabilities for practical uses.
IBM's move to Chicago reflects a growing trend as the state has rapidly attracted various quantum computing entities. In July, the U.S. Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) announced a new programme aimed at testing quantum technologies in practical environments, further enhancing Illinois's status in the sector. That same month, plans were revealed for the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP), with $700 million allocated for tax incentives and grants. The IQMP is scheduled to welcome its first tenant, California-based PsiQuantum, in approximately two years.
As part of its commitment to this project, IBM will also receive a $25 million investment from the state to acquire equipment and facilitate the establishment of its new quantum computer. The centre is projected to create around 50 permanent jobs, along with further construction employment opportunities. IBM's CEO, Arvind Krishna, indicated that the company's investment could reach "tens of millions or low hundreds of millions," suggesting the potential for further growth as research initiatives develop, including hosting student internship programmes and academic fellowships.
Governor Pritzker highlighted the long-term economic benefits this initiative could provide, stating, “Being at the forefront of this industry holds the potential to deliver long-term, broad-based economic prosperity for our people.”
The IQMP is slated to be constructed on a former U.S. Steel plant site, which previously provided extensive employment and economic activity to the region before its closure in the early 1990s. However, the announcement has triggered concerns among local residents regarding the potential impacts of such a high-tech facility. Many community members reference a history of disinvestment and uncertainty regarding how the area's economy will benefit from this development.
Vanessa Schwartz, a long-time Southeast Side resident, voiced these apprehensions, expressing hesitation about past community projects that failed to materialise. She remarked, “That property alone has had a lot of investors with plans that have fallen through, so there’s some kind of reticence with the community to see if this is going to be something like that.” Furthermore, there are worries about potential environmental consequences and the risk of gentrification, with concerns about rising rents pushing locals out of their homes.
In response to community apprehensions, Pritzker and other proponents of the quantum park have emphasized their commitment to engage with residents and address local concerns. Representative Curtis Tarver, whose district encompasses the IQMP site, acknowledged the relevancy of the calls he's received from constituents and praised the engagement efforts thus far, noting, “This is as much engagement as I’ve seen on a project in quite some time.”
As the initiative moves forward, the intersection of advanced technology development and community impact remains a focal point of discussion among stakeholders in the area. The shift toward quantum technology presents not only opportunities for economic expansion but also challenges related to local engagement and equity.
Source: Noah Wire Services