This is the second design that developer CRG has pitched for the Fifth Third Bank properties in North Center. The latest proposal would convert the bank building at 3959 N. Lincoln Avenue into an apartment building with first floor retail and build a new apartment building that would replace the bank's parking lot across the street at 3950 N. Damen Ave.
Chicago Yimby states that the Committee on Design has reviewed initial plans for the mixed-use development at both locations. Developers CRG and Ravine Park Partners are working with local architecture firm Lamar Johnson Collaborative on the new design.
The project would include:
- Converting the bank building at 3959 N. Lincoln Avenue into an apartment building
- Rises 65 feet at five stories
- Ground floor will be redeveloped with retail
- Would be converted to 120 apartments
- 116 one-bedroom units
- Four two-bedroom units
- Two new residential wings will be built matching the existing height - a smaller one along Lincoln Avenue and a larger L-shaped addition to the east
- 5,000 square-foot retail space occupying the main street corner
- New lobby
- Fitness room
- 21 vehicle garage under the outdoor deck in the rear
- Build a new five to seven story mixed-use apartment building at 3950 N. Damen Ave.
- Reaching up to 82 feet at its tallest point
- Multiple outdoor plazas
- New structure will need to include a drive-thru for 5/3 Bank as part of the pending land agreement
- Additional 78 vehicle parking lot with banking drive thru on the southern end
- New 3,500 square foot bank
- 1,700 square foot retail space
- Floors above will hold 176 apartments
- 70 studios
- 33 one-bedroom units
- 73 units split between two and three bedroom layouts
- Some units will have access to private inset balconies
- All will have access to multiple outdoor decks
The committee had commented on worries on the vehicular flow from Damen Avenue to the alley, and the overall massing size right next to the intersection. The committee also encouraged the design team to further study the development of the facade which will later be formally revealed.
LOOKING FOR MORE MIXED-USE PROJECTS IN THE CHICAGO AREA?
There will be plenty of public transportation for future residents with nearby bus service for CTA Routes 50 and 80 on site, and the CTA Brown Line at Irving Park Station via a three-minute walk.
Further work is still needed on both structures to arrive at a more formal proposal to bring to City Council for the rezoning approvals. At this time there is no established construction timeline or potential groundbreaking date scheduled.
