Chicago City Council Approves $127 Million LeClaire Courts Redevelopment

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 Greenlights $127 Million for LeClaire Courts Redevelopment

The Chicago City Council has officially approved a substantial $127 million funding package for the first phase of the LeClaire Courts redevelopment project as of July 3, 2025. This initiative is set to transform a long-vacant public housing area into a vibrant residential community in Garfield Ridge, located at 4458 South Cicero Avenue.

Details of the Redevelopment

This redevelopment effort has been in the works for several years, with prior approvals already in place from the city. The Habitat Company, in collaboration with Cabrera Capital, is spearheading this ambitious project. The first phase will feature the construction of two six-story buildings situated between West 44th and 45th Streets along Cicero Avenue, linked by a small central plaza that aims to enhance the community setting.

Parking and Housing Units

A 123-vehicle parking lot will also be built at the rear of the site, designed to support future phases of development. The overall redevelopment plan envisions the addition of 700 housing units across a sprawling 32 acres of former public housing land. The northern section of the project will include a building containing a sizable childcare facility, a fitness center, a community room, and 110 residential units. The southern building will offer over 2,000 square feet of retail space along with 73 residential units.

Unit Types and Affordability

In total, the two structures will provide 183 apartments, with options for studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts. Significantly, approximately 90% of these units will be designated as long-term affordable housing, which will include support from Chicago Housing Authority vouchers. The remaining 10% of the units will be priced at market rates, ensuring a diverse range of housing options for the community.

Aesthetic and Structural Features

The new buildings will feature a blend of multicolored brickwork, decorative metal panels, and vibrant murals to create an inviting atmosphere. The estimated budget for this initial phase is around $127 million, sourced mainly from construction loans, contributions from the Chicago Housing Authority, various loans, Tax Increment Financing (TIF), and Low-Income Housing Tax Credits.

Timeline and Community Involvement

Groundbreaking for the project is anticipated later in 2025, with building permits already submitted and awaiting approval. The George Sollitt Construction Company has been designated as the general contractor for the redevelopment. Throughout its planning stages, the project has incorporated extensive community feedback and engagement to ensure it meets the needs of local residents.

Historical Context

The LeClaire Courts redevelopment is part of a broader initiative by the Chicago Housing Authority to replace a former housing project that was demolished in 2011. This site was originally constructed in 1950 as a low-density townhouse alternative aimed at providing low-income families with affordable living options.

Overall, the approved funding and upcoming construction symbolize a significant step toward revitalizing Garfield Ridge and reestablishing a sense of community in a formerly underserved area.

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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