Near the 606, two transit-oriented developments head to Western Avenue

A pair of new transit-oriented developments are on the way to the 1700 block of North Western Avenue at the border of Bucktown and Logan Square. Offering convenient access to the CTA Blue Line and the 606 trail, the projects will deliver a combined 131 residential units and 49 parking spaces to the changing area.

First up is a development slated for 1741 N. Western Avenue which was earned its first construction permit on Monday. Replacing a demolished two-story building, the five-level structure will contain parking for seven vehicles and 25 residences—down from the 37 units first presented back in 2017. The brick and metal exterior design from Pro-Plan Architects remains mostly unchanged, 32nd Ward chief of staff Paul Sajovec told Curbed.

Pro-Plan Architects

Meanwhile across the street, a larger TOD is preparing to replace a gas station and car wash at 1750 N. Western. Developed by GW Property Group and designed by NORR Architects, the project calls for 106 apartment units, 42 parking stalls, retail space, and a direct public access ramp to the 606 trail from its second floor.

New development near the elevated biking and jogging path has proved to be a double-edged sword for nearby North Side communities. While some welcome the increased economic activity and rising property values, other residents have expressed concerns over swelling rents and the demolition (and single-family deconversion) of existing affordable housing stock.

Last year, Chicago officials responded by introducing changes to the Affordable Requirements Ordinance in the Milwaukee Avenue corridor that boosted the required percentage of affordable housing from 10 to 15 percent.

While new projects are complying with the revised rules—1750 N. Western Avenue features 16 affordable-rate units, for example—there’s no denying that the area will continue down its path of rapid transformation.

NORR Architects

• Developer pitches apartment project with direct connection to the 606 [Curbed Chicago]
• New affordable housing initiative aims to curb gentrification near 606 [Curbed Chicago]