T
he Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) has granted a $27 million capital loan for the initial stage of the LeClaire Courts redevelopment project, which is part of a larger $350 million initiative spearheaded by The Habitat Company and Cabrera Capital Partners. This project is located on a 32-acre site near Midway Airport, which was previously home to the LeClaire Courts public housing community built in the 1950s and demolished in 2011.

    The redevelopment plan includes the construction of 700 residential units and 440,000 square feet of commercial space. Matt Fiascone, president of Habitat, stated that this loan approval demonstrates the CHA's commitment to the project, allowing other agencies, lenders, and investors to move forward with confidence.

    The first phase of the project is set to begin construction in the spring and will feature two six-story mixed-use buildings along Cicero Avenue between 44th and 45th streets. This phase will provide 183 apartment units ranging from studios to three-bedrooms, with at least 160 units designated as affordable housing. Additionally, the development will include a 14,000-square-foot early childhood center and 2,200 square feet of retail space.

    Future phases will expand the range of housing options with smaller apartment buildings, townhouse-style rentals, and a senior living facility. The redevelopment will also incorporate infrastructure improvements such as streets, sidewalks, and utilities to support the growing community.

    While some procedural steps remain, including final approval from the Illinois Housing Development Authority and a City Council vote on tax-increment financing, the project is on track to proceed. In addition to the LeClaire Courts redevelopment, Habitat is also leading several other major mixed-use projects, including 43 Green in Bronzeville and Ogden Commons in Chicago's North Lawndale neighborhood.