Efforts to revitalize Chicago's West Side took a concrete step forward with the official opening of The Avenue Apartments, an affordable housing community aimed at bringing much-needed stability and economic development to the area. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by state and city officials, including Mayor Brandon Johnson, who highlighted the broader investments making their way to this part of the city.
The project, which was nearly nine years in the making, represents a significant milestone for the Austin neighborhood. "We're trying to build this community up in the best way that we can, by bringing community back in," Westside Health Authority’s director of property, Rosie Dawson, told the Chicago Sun-Times during the event. The sentiment was echoed by Mayor Johnson at the grand opening, captured by CBS News Chicago, where he stated, "We're breaking ground. We're cutting ribbons, and we're doing that right here in Austin on the great West Side."
The Westside Health Authority, which has been serving Austin and the greater West Side since 1988, oversaw the transformation of the 20-unit building, formerly known as The Carter. Acquiring the property in 2016 for $550,000, the nonprofit managed to keep costs significantly below the estimated $3 million it would have required to tear down the building. According to Dawson, speaking with CBS News Chicago, "It cost more to tear it down than to build it up."
With rents ranging from $1,400 to $1,600 for one and two-bedroom units, the aim is to provide long-term housing solutions to median-income residents. Amenities like central air, dishwashers, in-unit laundry, and microwaves add to the appeal of The Avenue.
The Avenue Apartments will become move-in ready by mid-November, with the Westside Health Authority still accepting applications. Those interested can apply in person at the Aspire Center for Workforce Innovation or over the phone, as reported by the Chicago Sun-Times. This development forms part of a broader push on the West Side, which includes the recent opening of a workforce development center and community space at the former Emmet Elementary, among other projects.
