After years of planning and over a dozen public meetings, Grace Terrace has finally received zoning approval in Arlington Heights. Located at 1519-1625 S. Arlington Heights Road, this innovative 25-unit housing project is designed to provide affordable, supportive housing for veterans and individuals with disabilities. By blending thoughtful design with community considerations, Grace Terrace aims to enhance lives while fitting seamlessly into the neighborhood.
Key Features of Grace Terrace
Housing Units
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Total Apartments: 25 units, comprising 20 one-bedroom and 5 two-bedroom apartments.
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Accessibility: All units are universally designed, ADA-compliant, and adaptable to meet a wide range of physical, developmental, and mental disability needs.
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Target Residents: Veterans and individuals with disabilities earning 30% to 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Rental assistance will be available through vouchers provided by the Housing Authority of Cook County.
Building Design and Amenities
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Building Layout: Two story structure will have elevator access to ensure ease of mobility.
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On-Site Amenities:
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Community room for gatherings and social activities.
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Computer lab and library for educational and professional development.
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Fitness center to promote physical health.
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Laundry facilities and tenant storage space.
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Community garden for outdoor relaxation and engagement.
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Social service office and on-site property management for resident support.
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Security: Key fob access and CCTV cameras ensure a safe living environment.
Site Features
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Parking:
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51 total parking spaces, including 8 accessible stalls.
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Parking is strategically placed to the west and north of the building.
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Stormwater Management: A detention area to the south manages stormwater effectively.
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Landscaping and Privacy:
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A 6-foot solid privacy fence surrounds the property.
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Layered landscaping with staggered evergreen barriers and mature trees buffers the property from neighboring homes.
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A total building-to-building distance of approximately 134 feet ensures additional privacy.
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Community-Centered Adjustments
The Daily Herald reports that to address concerns from local residents, the developers have made significant adjustments to the original plan:
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Building Height: Reduced from three stories to two to better align with the neighborhood’s character.
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Reoriented Layout: The building entrance and parking lot were moved to face Arlington Heights Road, minimizing impact on nearby single-family homes.
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Enhanced Privacy: The privacy fence and extensive landscaping ensure minimal disruption to neighbors.
Opportunities for Construction Professionals
The Grace Terrace project offers exciting opportunities for construction workers to showcase their skills while contributing to a meaningful development. Key areas of involvement include:
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Universal Design: Installing features that comply with ADA standards, such as wider doorways, ramps, and adaptable kitchen and bathroom fixtures.
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Sustainable Infrastructure: Constructing a stormwater detention area and integrating environmentally friendly landscaping.
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Safety Features: Setting up advanced security systems, including key fob access and CCTV.
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Community Spaces: Building multi-functional spaces like the community room, garden, and fitness center.
A Positive Community Impact
Grace Terrace is more than just a housing development—it’s a community asset designed to meet the growing demand for affordable housing in Arlington Heights. The project demonstrates a commitment to:
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Inclusivity: Providing housing for those who need it most, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
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Sustainability: Incorporating green infrastructure and energy-efficient design.
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Neighborhood Harmony: Balancing modern development with respect for existing residential areas.
Final Thoughts
Grace Terrace is a testament to how thoughtful planning, inclusive design, and community collaboration can create a project that benefits everyone involved. For construction professionals, it’s a chance to participate in a development that combines accessibility, sustainability, and innovation. For residents, it’s an opportunity to live in a supportive, well-designed environment that enhances their quality of life.
This project sets a new standard for affordable housing, showing how construction and design can truly make a difference.
