Chicago: Mayor Brandon Johnson Breaks Ground on Southbridge Phase 1C, Advancing 80 New Affordable Homes in the South Loop

CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, along with city officials and development partners, gathered today to celebrate the groundbreaking of Southbridge Phase 1C. This marks a significant step in the revitalization of the former Harold Ickes Homes and will bring much-needed affordable housing to the South Loop community.

The project, which is a collaboration between the Chicago Department of Housing (DOH), the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA), and development partners, aims to transform a long-vacant property into an 80-unit mixed-income high-rise. This will not only increase access to affordable housing but also contribute to the economic vitality of the South Loop.

In his statement, Mayor Johnson emphasized the importance of affordable housing as a fundamental human right and a key factor in creating a thriving and equitable city. He expressed his pride in supporting this project and its contribution to providing affordable homes in the vibrant South Loop community. The mayor also highlighted how this project aligns with Chicago's vision for growth and investment in neighborhoods for the future.

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Phase 1C will consist of 80 rental units, including studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. Of these units, 44 will be designated as affordable for households earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income. Additionally, some homes will be reserved for CHA residents with a right of return.

The Johnson administration has provided significant support for this project through $11.9 million in Tax Increment Financing assistance approved by City Council in July 2025. The CHA has also contributed $10 million towards this development.

Lissette Castañeda, Commissioner of DOH, expressed her pride in supporting this project with an $11.9 million investment. She emphasized how it will expand access to affordable housing near public transit and essential services for residents of the Near South Side while acknowledging those impacted by the demolition of former Harold Ickes public housing towers. Castañeda also stressed the importance of collaboration between government agencies, community stakeholders, and residents to achieve a shared goal that benefits all.

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Phase 1C is the latest addition to the Southbridge development, which has already seen the completion of its first two phases. These phases have brought new residents and retailers such as Batter and Berries and 24 Life Gym to the area. The new building will also feature 1,500 square feet of ground-floor retail space, a fitness center, bike storage, a package room, and a rooftop terrace. It is expected to create approximately 90 jobs during construction and seven permanent positions upon completion.

Once fully completed, Southbridge redevelopment will offer approximately 867 mixed-income homes and 65,000 square feet of commercial and community space. This project aligns with Mayor Johnson's broader strategy to transform the Loop into a round-the-clock residential and mixed-use neighborhood.

Under Phase 1A and Phase 1B of Southbridge development, 206 rental units have already been developed and placed in service. Mayor Johnson remains committed to delivering more affordable homes and supporting projects that increase density and economic vitality in communities across Chicago. His administration has made it a priority to create a larger, more diverse housing stock with more affordable options for working people in order to make Chicago more affordable for all.

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