CHA submits zoning application for 1401 N. Clybourn

The Chicago Housing Authority has submitted a rezoning application for its long-vacant site which was once home to the former Cabrini-Green housing project. Planned for a wedge-shaped lot, the site is bound by N. Clybourn Ave to the south, N. Larrabee St to the east, and rededicated N. Ogden Ave and W. Blackhawk St to the west and north respectively. The multi-phase venture is being developed by CHA in collaboration with Hunt Development Group, Pennrose, Imagine Group, and a Cabrini-Green residents group.

With JGMA on board for the design, the project documents show a multi-phase, mixed-use development that will occupy the entire site. Once fully built out, the project will deliver 742 residential units and 22,000 square feet of retail space spread across multiple buildings with 174 surface parking spaces organized on the site between buildings. The first phase, Subarea C, will deliver 345 units in two buildings, while Subarea B is planned for 216 units and Subarea D will bring 181 dwelling units.

Designed as a cohesive group of buildings, each structure will feature rounded corners and bent-shaped forms. Facades will be clad in metal panels with integral standing seams and window wall glazing. Integrated balconies will be set into the facade of the buildings. With varying heights, Phase 1 will have a 10-story building standing 98 feet tall and an eight-story midrise rising 79 feet tall.

While CHA typically builds mixed-income projects, the zoning application doesn’t specify an exact breakdown of unit types or income levels. Due to the fact that they will be funding the project with LIHTC equity, TIF funding, and other revenue streams, the affordable percentage will be higher than the typical ARO requirements because these funding sources require a higher percentage of affordable units.

CHA and its team are looking to rezone the site from its existing Planned Development and RT-4 designation to a unified C1-3 before implementing a new Planned Development. The plan will need approvals from the Chicago Plan Commission, Committee on Zoning, and City Council. Further hearings on the approval of financing can also be expected.