CHICAGO-A report released this week by a Skokie-based developer documents a significant increase in metro Chicago BTS activity. He charts first-half growth at more than six million sf.

LA MESA, CA-RK Properties has tapped into the locally hot multifamily market with its purchase of Casa de Colina Apartments. The deal is valued at $82,558 per unit.

FRIDLEY, MN-The chain once had 15 stores in the Upper Midwest, but fell on hard times due to increased competition from other outdoors sports retailers.

SILVER SPRING, MD-Hotel occupancy rates have been sliced in half in some major markets and analysts have said that financing for building or buying lodging properties has all but disappeared. Choice Hotels, however, reports earnings of 45 cents a share, beating the street.