Chicago's Mayor Brandon Johnson inaugurated the construction for Fifth City Commons, an affordable housing project set to reshape Chicago's West Side. The venture is part of the city's efforts to reimagine and repurpose long-abandoned urban spaces into affordable residential areas.
The construction company Skender, in association with Preservation of Affordable Housing (POAH), is set to develop this three-story complex located at 3155 West 5th Ave.
Urbanize Chicago reports that the housing complex will cater to East Garfield Park residents whose earnings range from 30 to 80 percent of the area's median income level. The collaborative endeavor aims to make use of modern construction practices, fostering an eco-friendly lifestyle for its future residents.
The plans call for:
- New three-story building
- Featuring 43 one, two and three bedroom units
- Community rooms
- Fitness room
- Outdoor terrace
- Three laundry rooms
The $38 million complex will be all-electric and will include:
- Triple pane windows
- Air sealing to lower the building's energy needs in accordance with Passive House principles
- Rooftop solar panels
- Mature landscaping
- EV charging stations
- Extensive bicycle parking
- on-site composting
"Fifth City Commons and the City of Chicago, with its commitment to and investment in sustainable affordable housing, transportation, and energy-efficiency will demonstrate the impact cities and the built environment can have on climate change. More than 100 years after Chicago showed the world how to design and build skyscrapers, today we are poised to lead the way in the development of sustainable affordable housing. As Mayor, and as a West Sider – I could not be more excited.”
Mayor of Chicago | Brandon Johnson
Designed for Energy Efficiency and Community Living
A key highlight of Fifth City Commons is its eco-friendly design. Perkins & Will, alongside Nia Architects, have created a structure featuring triple pane windows, solar panels, and air sealing mechanisms to limit energy consumption.
Funding for Fifth City Commons: A Multi-Faceted Approach
The financial underpinning of Fifth City Commons comes from a diverse array of sources including:
- Tax increment financing
- HOME Investment Partnership Program assistance
- Bonds
- Low-income housing tax credits
- The City of Chicago has also played a crucial role in funding this project
The project is slated for completion between late 2024 and 2025. With this development, the city aims to prevent displacement, promote inclusivity, and provide better transit-oriented housing options for its residents.
Commitment to Local Community and Sustainability
Fifth City Commons exemplifies the dual commitment to local community needs and sustainable development. By providing affordable housing close to transit links, this project encourages community preservation and reduces the carbon footprint.
Fifth City Commons exemplifies a new vision for urban development, where vacant lands are transformed into thriving, sustainable, and affordable residential spaces. This project sets a benchmark for future affordable housing initiatives, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and environmentally conscious cityscape.
