City Council approves Abrams Intergenerational Village

The Chicago City Council has approved the Abrams Intergenerational Village at 5300 S. Calumet. Located at the southwest corner of the intersection of S. Calumet Ave and E. 53rd St, the project is being developed by The Renaissance Collaborative and Housing Opportunities & Maintenance for the Elderly.

Drawing on the West African “Boa Me Na Me Mmoa Wo” symbol of cooperation and interdependence, the project envisions a community of grandparents, grandchildren, and independent seniors that can help each other achieve their goals and reach their full potential, maximizing their quality of life.

Designed by Moody Nolan, the six-story building will have 71 residential units. 21 of the apartments would be for grandfamilies (grandparents aged 55+ raising grandchildren) scattered throughout the building in two- and three-bedroom apartments. 12 low-income seniors would live in studios while dining communally on one dedicated floor which would also include grandfamilies. 32 seniors would live in private studios and two-bedroom apartments. 6 college students aged 18-24 experiencing homelessness would live in private studios and would provide light assistance and companionship to the Good Life seniors. 

The building would also provide community rooms on the ground floor and accessible gardens and play areas that ensure that the building and the neighborhood are seamlessly integrated. Fitness, library, and computer rooms would be accessible to all, and on-site social work staff would provide support services for children and seniors.

TRC and H.O.M.E. are in the process of seeking financing for the anticipated $33 million development, which will include LIHTC funding. With City Council approval secured, the site will be rezoned from RM-5 to RM-6. A timeline for construction is currently unknown.