News Summary
The Chicago City Council has approved a significant funding initiative of $127 million for the redevelopment of LeClaire Courts in Garfield Ridge. This first phase will include two six-story buildings with housing units, a childcare facility, fitness center, and retail space. The new community aims to provide approximately 700 housing units, with a commitment to affordable living options. The redevelopment project also emphasizes community engagement and sustainability, reflecting the needs of local residents.
Chicago City Council Backs $127 Million Investment in LeClaire Courts Redevelopment
The Chicago City Council has officially approved a significant funding initiative of $127 million for the first phase of the LeClaire Courts redevelopment project located in Garfield Ridge. This decision was made on July 3, 2025, marking a crucial step in revitalizing the area that once housed a public housing project.
Situated at 4458 South Cicero Avenue, the LeClaire Courts redevelopment has been in the works for several years, following previous approvals from the city. The effort is spearheaded by The Habitat Company in collaboration with Cabrera Capital, aiming to transform the existing landscape into a vibrant residential community.
First Phase Details
The first phase of the redevelopment plan entails the construction of two six-story buildings. These structures will be developed between West 44th and 45th Streets along Cicero Avenue and will be interconnected by a small central plaza, enhancing community interaction.
A crucial aspect of the first phase is the construction of a 123-vehicle parking lot located at the rear, which will facilitate future expansions of the project. The overall goal of the proposed redevelopment is to create approximately 700 housing units spanning across 32 acres of land that was previously designated for public housing.
Housing and Amenities
The northern building of the two will house a large childcare facility, a fitness center, and a community room on its ground floor, along with 110 residential units. Meanwhile, the southern building will include over 2,000 square feet of retail space that will also feature additional amenities and will accommodate 73 residential units.
In total, the two buildings will provide 183 apartments, consisting of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts. Notably, around 90% of the units will be made available at long-term affordable rates supported by CHA vouchers, while the remaining 10% will be offered at market rates, ensuring a blend of affordable and market housing options.
Design and Construction
Both buildings will be constructed utilizing a mix of multi-toned brick, decorative metal panels, and vibrant murals, lending an appealing aesthetic to the community. The estimated cost for this first phase amounts to around $127 million, with funding sourced from construction loans, CHA contributions, various other loans, TIF funding, and Low-Income Housing Tax Credits.
The redevelopment project anticipates commencing on-site work in late 2025, with the necessary permits already submitted. The George Sollitt Construction Company has been appointed as the general contractor for the initiative.
Community Engagement and Future Plans
Throughout its development, the LeClaire Courts project has involved extensive community input and discussions, reinforcing its commitment to addressing local needs and concerns. This redevelopment forms a critical part of the Chicago Housing Authority’s broader strategy to replace the old housing project, which was demolished back in 2011. The original site was constructed in 1950 as a low-density residential alternative aimed at serving low-income families.
As the project progresses, it promises to not only provide much-needed housing but also create a lively community space that benefits current and future residents of the Garfield Ridge neighborhood.
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Additional Resources
- Chicago YIMBY: Funding Approved for LeClaire Courts Development
- Chicago YIMBY: Funding Partially Approved for LeClaire Courts Redevelopment
- Chicago Sun-Times: LeClaire Courts Redevelopment
- Southwest Regional Publishing: CHA’s LeClaire Courts Will Be Rebuilt
- Wikipedia: Housing in the United States
