Turning an old hotel into a shelter for homeless families in Waukegan is a major step toward helping people in need in Lake County. The former Travelodge hotel, which spans over 33,000 square feet, will soon become a safe place where people can live and receive support. This project, led by PADS Lake County and funded by community contributions, highlights the importance of addressing homelessness.
The hotel, located on North Lewis Avenue near Beach Road, will undergo a significant makeover to become a fully functioning shelter. The new facility will feature over 60 rooms, providing space for up to 200 beds. Communal areas will also be added, giving residents a place to connect and interact. Alongside providing a place to sleep, the building will act as a central hub where families can access food, assistance, and other vital services.
The renovations will focus on creating strong, safe, and comfortable spaces. Private rooms will be practical and cozy, while shared spaces will be designed to feel inviting. The construction team will use durable, easy-to-maintain materials and ensure the building is accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.
The project has secured substantial funding to make this transformation possible. The Lake County Board allocated $7.06 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and an additional $2 million came from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). These funds will cover the $2.8 million purchase price of the property and the cost of renovations.
By repurposing an old building, this project exemplifies efficient resource use while tackling a critical issue. It’s a smart and impactful way to ensure more families in Lake County have a safe place to live.
“The lack of affordable housing is the leading cause of homelessness in our county, especially for families. This has contributed to a dramatic rise in the number of families unable to find a place to live. This new shelter is going to be an essential and much-needed resource in our fight to combat family homelessness in our community.”
Lake County Board Chair | Sandy Hart
For construction workers, this project offers a unique and meaningful challenge. Transforming a hotel into a shelter isn’t a typical job and will require specialized skills. Workers will tackle tasks such as:
Demolition and Reconstruction: Removing unnecessary parts of the hotel while maintaining structural integrity.
System Upgrades: Installing modern electrical and plumbing systems to meet the needs of a large number of residents.
Interior Design: Creating spaces that balance privacy with community interaction, using materials that are both durable and comfortable.
Exterior Improvements: Enhancing the landscaping and exterior to make the shelter more inviting and functional.
Patch reports that permits are expected to be approved within the next 30 to 60 days, with the goal of completing the project in time for the shelter to open next winter. This timeline highlights the need for precision and efficiency in the construction process.
The need for permanent shelters in Lake County has grown significantly since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Temporary shelters, like community centers and churches, were no longer viable due to health concerns, leaving a gap in services. This new shelter will fill that gap, providing a stable and safe space for families in need.
Allen Swilley, the leader of PADS Lake County, noted that family homelessness has risen by 75% in the past year. This shelter is part of a broader plan to address the crisis, which includes building additional medium-sized shelters in high-need areas such as Zion, Gurnee, North Chicago, and Round Lake. By consolidating services in one location, the Waukegan shelter will make it easier for families to access the help they need and transition into stable housing. The shelter will also have 24/7 staff on hand to provide consistent support.
This shelter isn’t just a building—it’s a symbol of hope for families with nowhere else to turn. The thoughtful design and construction will ensure it meets the needs of residents while demonstrating the community’s dedication to helping others. For construction workers, it’s a chance to contribute to a project that will positively impact countless lives.
As work progresses and the opening date approaches, this initiative sets an inspiring example of how repurposing old buildings can solve pressing social issues. By next winter, the shelter will be ready to offer warmth, safety, and a fresh start to families in need.