Primera is pleased to announce the groundbreaking of the unprecedented modern redevelopment of the historic Julie C. Lathrop Homes, Chicago’s largest public housing complex on the city’s north side. The complex is located on a 32-acre parcel of land that is bordered by the Chicago River, Diversey Parkway and Clybourn and Damen Avenues. Regarding this long-awaited event, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel stated, “…we celebrate a new beginning and a victory for the Lathrop community as we renew our commitment to bringing more affordable housing, economic development, green space and new access to our beautiful Chicago River in this historic neighborhood. Partnerships like this are what make our city great, and help build strong and vibrant communities where our families and seniors can live, work, and enjoy all of the opportunities that our city has to offer.”

Primera is proud to be a part of this project. During the pre-construction phase, Primera provided mechanical, electrical and civil design support, community outreach and LEED services. As the construction phase begins, Primera will continue to provide LEED services, as well as commissioning support. Currently in the 1A Phase of construction, a new six-story building, referred to internally as S101, is seeking LEED certification through the New Construction v3.0 rating system. The overall project is also working to achieve LEED ND, as well as Green Enterprise Community Certification.

The complex was originally built in 1938, with more than 900 public housing units. Today, very few units are occupied. The redevelopment is a major investment for the future of public housing residents, as well as for nearby neighborhoods, as it will encompass a mixed-use campus with nearly 1,200 residential units built over three phases, retail storefronts, a revamped riverwalk and new landscaping.

The final housing complex plan was approved in February 2016, after more than 15 years of debate between developers, residents and housing activists. The plan includes a delivery of 401 public housing (CHA) units, 212 units of affordable housing (ARO), and 503 residences rented at market rate. The total of 1,116 mixed-income units will be delivered over a series of phases that will take several years to complete.