Please update your browser.

Thank you for visiting our site! We noticed you are using a browser we no longer support. To have the best overall experience and avoid issues navigating the site, please click one of the supported browsers to the right to download the latest version for free:

Manager of Development Transactions Michael Brazeal Shares ’25 Development Outlook with Chicago Industrial Properties

News | February 6, 2025

Michael Brazeal, Manager of Development Transactions.
"It is more important than ever for developers to stay close to their clients to keep up with rapid supply chain evolution. Our buildings will continue to evolve along with our clients."

- Michael Brazeal, Manager of Development Transactions, Central Region

CenterPoint’s Manager of Development Transactions in the Central Region, Michael Brazeal, shared his thoughts on how the Chicagoland industrial market will fair in 2025, which submarkets developers will prioritize, and how sustainability factors into CenterPoint’s development decisions in the Chicago Industrial Properties’ article “A View from the Top: 2025 Market Leaders Forecast.”


CIP: What trends or challenges do you anticipate shaping industrial development in Chicago this year?

Brazeal: The industry will continue to be cautious and see what direction markets head under the new administration and the absorption of new deliveries. As a long-term developer and investor, we’re continuing to assess new speculative projects that will deliver in 12-18 months. Demand has remained strong in the I-80 corridor, where we concentrate our development efforts in the Chicagoland market.

CIP: Are there specific submarkets or corridors in the Chicago area where you foresee the greatest demand for industrial space?

Brazeal: Chicagoland’s infill and bulk submarkets have been resilient through the past few years. We’re optimistic industrial leasing will remain strong along I-80, I-55, and around O’Hare.

CIP: How are factors like e-commerce growth and supply chain evolution influencing your development strategies?

Brazeal: The rapid e-commerce growth in today’s world has been and will continue to fuel the rapid growth of the industrial footprint in Chicago and throughout the nation. It is more important than ever for developers to stay close to their clients to keep up with rapid supply chain evolution. Our buildings will continue to evolve along with our clients.

CIP: What role does sustainability play in your industrial projects and how do you see this evolving in 2025?

Brazeal: Sustainable construction is not only one of our pillars but also ensures our developments are ready for future regulatory and environmental conditions. It is also high on users’ lists of needs when evaluating development opportunities. Our developments in Chicagoland achieve LEED certifications and offer users renewable energy options, energy-efficient HVAC and lighting, and water-saving landscaping, among other sustainable features.

For CenterPoint Investment, Development, and Asset Management inquiries in the Central Region, please contact: