A major transformation is set to take place in Auburn Gresham, where plans have been unveiled for the Blue Azul Center, a multi-purpose community hub at 7950 S Emerald Avenue. The project, led by local residents Eliseo and Valentina Pacheco-Cornejo, aims to create a state-of-the-art facility that promotes health, wellness, and community engagement. This $8 million project will repurpose a vacant lot spanning nearly half a block, providing a much-needed space for recreational, educational, and mental health services.
The Blue Azul Center will be a multi-story facility, reaching approximately 40 feet in height and covering over 20,000 square feet. The architectural design is being led by E.G. Woode, a South Side collective known for its innovative and community-driven projects. The center's exterior will feature a mix of gray, white, and blue precast panels, giving it a modern and welcoming appearance. The south end of the site will include a small parking lot to accommodate visitors and staff.
Block Club Chicago reports that the project recently received a $3.7 million Community Development Grant from the city, helping to fund a significant portion of the construction costs. However, additional fundraising efforts are ongoing to reach the total required amount, and a construction timeline is yet to be determined.
The Blue Azul Center is designed to be a multi-disciplinary community hub, offering a variety of resources and services. Key features of the center will include:
A Full-Sized Basketball Court: This space will be utilized for training sessions and fitness programs run by Think BLUE, a nonprofit founded by Eliseo Pacheco-Cornejo. The court will also serve as a safe and welcoming environment for local youth to engage in sports.
Fitness Center: A fully equipped gym and wellness facility to promote physical health among community members of all ages.
Multi-Use Rooms: These rooms will provide flexible spaces for community meetings, workshops, and educational programs.
Commercial Kitchen: A space dedicated to cooking classes, nutrition education, and meal programs, supporting both wellness and workforce development.
Mental Health Clinic: Dr. Valentina LLC, a mental health practice founded by Valentina Pacheco-Cornejo, will operate out of the center, offering clinical services, workshops, and student training opportunities.
Outdoor Spaces: The project includes an indoor courtyard and outdoor seating areas, as well as a publicly accessible outdoor basketball court, which will be enhanced with artistic murals.
The construction phase of the Blue Azul Center is expected to generate numerous job opportunities for construction workers, architects, and engineers. The project will require a diverse range of skilled labor, including framers, concrete workers, electricians, HVAC specialists, and interior designers. With E.G. Woode at the helm of the architectural work, there is also a strong emphasis on local hiring and community involvement, ensuring that the project benefits Auburn Gresham not just upon completion, but throughout the building process.
Upon completion, the center will create permanent jobs in facility management, fitness instruction, mental health services, and administrative roles. The educational programs housed within the center will also equip young people with skills for career paths in fields such as sports, health, and business development.
The Blue Azul Center is not just about building a facility; it’s about creating opportunities and empowering the local community. By providing accessible spaces for recreation, mental health support, and professional development, this center will play a crucial role in Auburn Gresham’s ongoing revitalization efforts.
With fundraising continuing and city support in place, the future looks bright for this transformative project. Once completed, the Blue Azul Center will stand as a testament to community-driven development and the power of investing in local resources.
As construction plans solidify, all eyes will be on Auburn Gresham, awaiting the groundbreaking of what promises to be a landmark community facility.