At the Casa Yucatán groundbreaking ceremony, Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his commitment to tackling the city's housing crisis through the Build Better Together initiative. Joined by Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez and Department of Housing Commissioner Lisette Castañeda, the event marked a significant step for affordable housing in the Pilsen community. According to a statement obtained by the City of Chicago's official press release, Mayor Johnson said, "Casa Yucatán is one of the first housing developments to close with funding support from our $1.25 billion Housing and Economic Development Bond."
With a keen focus on maintaining the cultural integrity and accessibility of the Pilsen community, the Casa Yucatán will offer 98 affordable homes for households earning between 30% and 70% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Having received $15.8 million in financing, courtesy of the mayor’s $1.25 billion Housing and Economic Development Bond, the project represents a pivotal moment in the city's efforts to ensure long-term residents aren't displaced by rising costs. Delivering his remarks, Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez reflected, "Our community has advocated for more affordable housing for decades, and with the groundbreaking of Casa Yucatán, we are on the road to delivering 98 units to the residents of the 25th ward."
DOH Commissioner Castañeda highlighted Pilsen’s cultural pedigree and resiliency, stating, "Casa Yucatán will be a development we can all take pride in," during the groundbreaking attended by eager onlookers and involved parties. Serving as the first of multiple housing projects financed by the aforementioned bond, Casa Yucatán aims to set the trend for future developments. Adding to the statement, Castañeda emphasized the importance of creating a space where locals can "stay here and raise their families without being priced out."
Fulfilling a need for diverse housing options, the development will feature a range of units, including one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, tailored for various family sizes. Celebrating its 35th anniversary, The Resurrection Project, helmed by CEO and Co-Founder Raul Raymundo, has long been integral to fostering affordable housing and community wealth. Echoing the sentiments of unity and progress, Raymundo pointed out, "These kinds of developments do not happen by accident," and he made sure to acknowledge the multiple stakeholders that contributed to the realization of Casa Yucatán.
Much more than just housing, Casa Yucatán will incorporate 2,500 square feet of community space, potentially becoming a new nucleus for Pilsen’s vibrant atmosphere. The project's strategic placement at 2134-2136 S. Ashland Ave ensures proximity to educational institutions like Benito Juarez High School and Cooper Dual Language Academy, and easy access to the rest of the city via the CTA Pink Line. In his ongoing commitment to expanding affordable housing, Mayor Johnson has made such developments a cornerstone in his strategy for a more economically inclusive Chicago, as demonstrated by policies like the Green Social Housing ordinance.
Beyond Casa Yucatán, the city's investment in housing and community projects is expansive, with the Department of Planning and Development distributing significant funds to initiatives ranging from health hubs to cultural centers and urban farms. This dedication to nurturing Chicago's residential scene and community infrastructure stands as a testament to Mayor Johnson's broader vision of cultivating a cityscape that accommodates and celebrates all of its inhabitants, irrespective of their economic status.
