Southbridge 1C celebrates groundbreaking

The Community Builders, joined by Mayor Brandon Johnson, Alderman Pat Dowell, leaders from IHDA, CHA, and other project partners, recently celebrated the groundbreaking of Southbridge 1C, the latest phase in the redevelopment of the former Harold Ickes Homes. Located at 2305 S. State, Phase 1C will occupy a vacant parcel at the southeast corner of the intersection of E. 23rd St and S. State St. 

“Truly affordable housing is a fundamental human right and is the foundation of a thriving, equitable city," said Mayor Brandon Johnson. "The need for more housing reaches every corner of our city, including the vibrant South Loop, which is why I am so proud my administration was able to support this project and the construction of affordable homes in this community. This project is intentionally designed to enhance quality of life and drive neighborhood development while exhibiting how Chicago is reimagining growth and investing in neighborhoods for the future.”

The 12-story building will have 80 mixed-income residential units and 1,500 square feet of retail space. The building’s retail space will occupy the corner of the footprint overlooking the intersection of E. 23rd St and S. State St while the residential entry will front S. State St. The ground floor will also include a bike room with 80 spaces, dog wash, package room, leasing office, and back-of-house areas. 

The $36.5 million project features 44 affordable apartments, representing 55% of the total units. Of these, 15 homes will serve families earning up to 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), while 29 units will be set aside for CHA households. The remaining 36 apartments will be leased at market rates. Apartments will offer in-unit laundry, quartz countertops, luxury plank flooring, and expansive views of the Chicago Loop and lakefront.

Resident amenities on the 12th floor will include a fitness area and an outdoor terrace with grills and seating, along with resident storage spaces.

Designed by Gensler, the building design features a cohesive façade of window wall and metal panel systems with face brick at the ground level, anchoring the building within its context. A mix of light and dark metal tones, along with vertical design elements, adds depth and variation to the exterior, reinforcing a clear architectural rhythm that complements the evolving South Loop streetscape. 

With the groundbreaking ceremony celebrated, joint venture general contractors McHugh Construction and Powers & Sons Construction can begin construction of the new development. A foundation permit, full building permit, and a tower crane permit have all already been issued. Construction is expected to be completed in June 2027.

Southbridge 1C represents the third phase of redevelopment on the former Harold Ickes Homes site. Collectively, the Southbridge redevelopment will deliver a total of 877 mixed-income rental and for-sale homes, including townhomes, walk-ups, mid-rise, and high-rise buildings, along with approximately 65,000 square feet of commercial and community-serving spaces.