A new infill residential development is in the works for a vacant city-owned parcel at 2245 W. Monroe Street, located between South Bell Avenue and South Oakley Boulevard on Chicago’s Near West Side. Proposed by 2245 W Monroe LLC, the $4.3 million project seeks to bring 20 new residential units to the neighborhood and contribute to the city’s broader affordable housing goals.
Site Overview and Development Background
The development site currently sits vacant and spans a triple-wide lot just west of the United Center. Plans for the site call for a mid-block residential building without ground-level commercial uses, aligning with the character of the surrounding residential streets. In order to proceed, the developer has submitted a proposal to purchase the city-owned land for $178,750. The proposed land sale will require approval from both the Committee on Housing and Real Estate and the City Council.
Building Design and Layout
Urbanize Chicago reports that the proposed building will rise four stories and reach a height of approximately 63 feet. Designed by Chicago-based Hanna Architects, the structure will reflect a clean, urban infill aesthetic, common in new mid-density housing developments throughout the city.
Architectural Features Include:
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A brick façade offering durability and visual harmony with surrounding architecture
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Inset balconies and punched window openings on the front elevation
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A shared rooftop deck providing city views and communal outdoor space
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No retail frontage, aligning with the quiet residential context
The 20 residential units are primarily composed of one- and two-bedroom layouts. Four of these will be designated as affordable units, in compliance with the City of Chicago’s affordable housing requirements.
Parking and Bicycle Facilities
Vehicle access will be provided from the alley behind the structure. The project includes:
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Six rear parking spaces for residents
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Dedicated bike parking to support active transportation
Construction Scope and Trades Involved
The scope of construction for this four-story residential building involves a wide range of tasks and skilled trades. While the building is modest in height, the complexity of urban infill construction requires careful planning and coordination. Below is an outline of the work that will be required:
Site Preparation and Foundation
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Demolition and clearing of the existing lot (if any residual structures or utilities remain)
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Excavation and trenching for footings and utility connections
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Concrete foundation work, including slab-on-grade and footing pours
Structural and Envelope Construction
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Steel or wood framing for the superstructure
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Masonry installation for the brick exterior cladding
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Roof system construction, including waterproofing and insulation
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Window and door installation, likely involving aluminum or vinyl framing systems
Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Work
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HVAC systems, with individual units or centralized systems for each residential unit
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Plumbing rough-in and fixture installation
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Electrical wiring, including service panels, lighting, and outlets for each unit
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Low-voltage systems, such as intercoms or fire alarms, as required by code
Interior Construction
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Drywall installation, taping, and finishing
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Flooring installation, such as tile, hardwood, or LVT depending on unit design
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Cabinetry and millwork, including kitchens and bathrooms
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Painting and finishes
Exterior Site Work and Final Touches
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Concrete work for sidewalks, curbs, and driveways
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Landscaping, including any green space improvements or tree plantings
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Fencing or gating around the rear parking area as needed
Skilled trades expected on site include concrete workers, masons, electricians, plumbers, carpenters, roofers, HVAC technicians, painters, and general laborers. Each phase of construction will require tight coordination due to the urban location and mid-block positioning of the site, which can pose logistical challenges for staging materials and deliveries.
Zoning and Planning Process
Before construction can begin, the project must secure approval for both the land sale and the necessary zoning amendments. As of now, there is no publicly announced timeline for groundbreaking or completion. However, the streamlined scale and focused residential use suggest a relatively efficient construction process once approvals and permits are in place.
Conclusion
The proposed residential development at 2245 W. Monroe marks another step toward addressing the city’s housing needs through thoughtful infill development. The project balances design, density, and affordability while supporting job creation across a range of construction trades. If approved, this four-story building will transform an underutilized lot into a modern residential asset in the Near West Side, within close proximity to downtown, transit, and neighborhood amenities.
