The redevelopment of the former Garfield School in Decatur marks a significant step in the city's broader community revitalization efforts. Thanks to substantial financial backing from the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) and other local partners, this project will transform the long-abandoned school building into a vibrant housing complex for independent seniors. This blog will explore the construction and design details of the project.
Project Overview
Key Details:
- Location: 1077 W Grand Ave, Decatur, Illinois
- Developer: Bywater Development Group, Simmons Development Group, and SOCAYR
- Total Project Cost: $20.7 million
- Construction Start Date: Mid-to-late 2025
- Number of Units: 63 senior living apartments
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Itemized Breakdown of Project Features
1. Restoration and Adaptive Reuse of the Existing School Building
- Historic Building Rehabilitation: The former Garfield School, constructed in 1959, will undergo a complete restoration and adaptive reuse to serve as high-quality affordable housing for seniors aged 55 and older. The building’s historical significance adds complexity to the restoration process, requiring careful attention to preserving its architectural integrity while modernizing it for contemporary use.
- 32 Apartments: The restoration of the school building will create 32 senior living apartments, incorporating modern amenities within the existing structure.
2. New Construction Addition
- Demolition of Non-Historic Auditorium: The deteriorating auditorium, which was added in the 1970s and does not hold historical value, will be demolished. This demolition clears the way for new construction that will complement the original building while adding much-needed housing units.
- 31 Additional Apartments: A new construction addition will be built on the site of the demolished auditorium, adding 31 more apartments to the complex. This expansion is crucial in meeting the demand for affordable senior housing in the area.
3. Financing and Development Support
- IHDA and Federal Support: The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) is a key financial backer of the project, providing Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) and other development financing. Additionally, $400,000 in federal Home Investment Partnership funds has been approved by the Decatur City Council to support the project.
- Decatur Housing Authority (DHA): DHA has committed to subsidizing 18 of the apartments annually, starting with an estimated $182,000 in 2024. This subsidy will help ensure that the housing remains affordable for low-income seniors.
4. Community and Environmental Impact
- Garfield Park Redevelopment: Adjacent to the former school building, Garfield Park is also undergoing a $250,000 renovation funded by federal sources. The park’s redesign and reactivation are integral to the overall revitalization plan, creating a vibrant, green space for residents to enjoy.
- Long-Term Revitalization Strategy: This project is part of a larger, long-term strategy for community revitalization in Decatur. The city plans to introduce mixed-income housing and new retail spaces to the area in future phases, leveraging the recently approved Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district that includes the Garfield School property.
Construction Focus
Materials and Methods
The Decatur Tribune reports that the project will involve the use of sustainable materials and modern construction methods to ensure the longevity and energy efficiency of the restored building and the new addition. Preserving the historical elements of the school building while upgrading it to meet contemporary standards will require specialized skills and careful planning.
Timeline and Job Creation
The construction is expected to begin in mid-to-late 2025, providing job opportunities for local workers, including roles in demolition, construction, historic preservation, and landscaping. The project not only addresses a critical need for affordable senior housing but also contributes to the local economy through job creation.
Collaboration and Community Involvement
The success of this project hinges on the collaboration between various stakeholders, including the City of Decatur, the development team, IHDA, and DHA. Community involvement and support are also essential, as this redevelopment is seen as a catalyst for broader revitalization efforts in the area.
The transformation of the former Garfield School into affordable senior housing is a milestone in Decatur's community revitalization strategy. For workers in the construction field, this project offers an opportunity to engage in a meaningful and challenging endeavor that preserves the city's historical heritage while meeting modern needs. As construction progresses, the project will not only provide much-needed housing for seniors but also serve as a cornerstone for future development in the area. The project’s success will likely inspire similar efforts across the city, contributing to Decatur’s long-term growth and prosperity.