Construction Begins on Residential Development in West Town

The foundation is set for an exciting new residential project at 455 North Carpenter Street in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood. This five-story development by Range Group replaces the former Allied Valve Industries building and introduces 72 rental units, ground-floor retail spaces, and convenient parking facilities.

Chicago Yimby reports that as construction progresses, this project promises to enhance the area with its thoughtful design and modern amenities. Here’s a closer look at the construction and design features, especially for workers shaping the project.

Project Overview

• Location: Corner of Grand Avenue and Carpenter Street

• Developer: Range Group

• Architect: Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture

• General Contractor: McNea & Sons Construction

• Size: Five stories with 72 rental units

• Foundation Permit: Issued on November 21 by the City of Chicago

Key Features of the Building

Residential Units

• Floor Plans: A mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments.

• Private Balconies: Select units will feature balconies for outdoor living space.

• Rooftop Deck: A shared rooftop area for tenants, offering a space to relax and socialize.

Ground-Floor Retail and Parking

• Retail Space: Shops located on the northwest corner, adding convenience and activity to the area.

• Parking Facilities:

  • 33 spaces on the first floor.

  • Garage access via an alley on the east side, with curb cuts on Grand Avenue and Hubbard Street.

Architectural Design

• L-Shaped Layout: The building wraps around its neighboring property at 1015 West Grand, maximizing site usage.

• Contemporary Aesthetic: Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture’s design blends functionality with a modern look.

Construction Insights

Foundation and Site Preparation

• With the foundation permit issued on November 21, crews completed the excavation and laid the foundation, revealing the L-shaped footprint.

• The next phase awaits a full building permit, allowing vertical construction to begin.

Demolition

• The former Allied Valve Industries building was removed earlier this fall by National Wrecking Company, clearing the way for new construction.

General Contractor Coordination

• McNea & Sons Construction is managing the transition from groundwork to the building’s structural development.

Accessibility and Transportation

• Public Transit:

  • Route 65 buses stop near the building, connecting residents to the Grand Blue Line subway station just half a mile east.

  • Routes 8 and 56 provide additional options at the Grand/Milwaukee/Halsted intersection.

• Walkability: Proximity to transit and retail enhances convenience for future residents.

West Town’s Growing Development

This project is part of a residential boom in West Town, with several nearby developments also contributing to the area’s transformation:

• Aberdeen Crossing: Adding 99 apartments across the street.

• 220 North Ada: Recently topped out with 308 units.

• 410 North Elizabeth: Plans for a 383-unit tower are in the pipeline.

• Flora (1114 West Carroll): Welcomed tenants to its 368 units in October.

Opportunities and Challenges for Workers

Construction Challenges

• Urban Site Coordination: Working at a busy intersection requires efficient delivery and equipment management.

• Precision Parking Installations: Creating access points for the parking garage will demand careful adherence to regulations.

Worker Opportunities

• Varied Skills in Demand: Tasks range from excavation to architectural detailing, offering roles for diverse trades.

• Mixed-Use Expertise: Building retail and residential spaces together provides a chance to showcase skills in integrated construction.

What’s Next?

With the foundation complete, crews will focus on securing the full building permit and beginning structural work. The steel and concrete framework will rise next, followed by the installation of retail spaces, residential units, and parking facilities. Each step will bring this modern project closer to completion.

Conclusion

The new development at 455 North Carpenter Street is a notable addition to West Town’s vibrant residential and commercial scene. Construction workers have a unique opportunity to shape this project, contributing to every phase from foundation to final finishes. Once completed, this building will offer modern living spaces, convenient retail options, and community-centered amenities, setting a new standard for urban living in Chicago.

DataBid is currently reporting on this project - 455 N Carpenter St Mixed Use West Town - Chicago  (0024073024)