Another transit-oriented apartment development headed to Western Avenue

Along the border of Bucktown and Logan Square, a five-story, transit-oriented development (TOD) replacing a car dealership at the corner of Western and Wabansia avenues has landed its first construction permit, Chicago Cityscape reported this week.

When completed, the project will offer ground-floor retail and garage parking for 29 cars topped by 60 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment units. The design from Chicago-based Axios Architects calls for a masonry exterior and a rooftop lounge and deck for building residents.

Developer and longtime property owner Gene Bernshtam, presented his plans for 1700 N. Western Avenue to the community last summer. At the time, some neighbors voiced concerns that it would exacerbate overcrowding on the CTA’s Blue Line, according to Chicago Block Club. The Chicago City Council approved the project in October.

Eventually, two more transit-oriented rental projects will join the same block of North Western Avenue. A five-floor, 25-unit building slated for 1741 N. Western received its first permit in February, while a gas station and carwash at 1750 N. Western recently bit the dust for 106 new apartments next to The 606 trail.