Special to Chicago Construction News
Construction is underway on a highly anticipated Health and Nutrition Center at 1110 E 130th Place in Chicago’s Altgeld Gardens neighborhood. This 10,000-sq. ft. facility, led by TCA Health and designed by Wheeler Kearns Architects, is set to be a cornerstone of health, wellness, and food security for a community that has long faced environmental and socio-economic challenges.
Altgeld Gardens, a public housing complex built in 1945, has a history shaped by environmental adversity. Originally designed to house African American families, the community is located near over 50 landfills and 380 industrial facilities, contributing to severe health disparities among its residents. For decades, the area has experienced high rates of cancer, birth defects, and other health issues tied to pollution and limited access to basic resources.
In recent years, Altgeld Gardens has struggled further with the closure of its only full-service grocery store in 2018, leaving the community as a food desert. But now, a new chapter is being written as the health and nutrition center aims to address these pressing needs by providing fresh food options and wellness services to local residents.
“This project is a vital step in addressing health inequities and food insecurity in Altgeld Gardens,” said Dr. Stephanie B. Callender, Executive Director of TCA Health. “We’re creating a space that not only meets immediate needs but also empowers the community to build a healthier future.”
Key features of the new facility
The Health and Nutrition Center will serve as a hub for both food access and wellness initiatives. It will build upon TCA Health’s existing services and provide new resources aimed at improving the quality of life for residents. Some of the key features include:
- Client Choice Food Pantry: A grocery-style pantry that allows residents to choose fresh, healthy food based on their preferences, helping to combat food insecurity.
- Grab-and-Go Cafe: A convenient service offering nutritious, ready-to-eat meals for residents with busy lifestyles.
- Teaching Kitchen: A space dedicated to cooking classes and nutritional education, where residents can learn how to prepare healthy meals and make informed food choices.
- Yoga and Meditation Space: Areas for physical and mental wellness activities to foster overall well-being.
- Community Meeting Rooms: Multi-purpose spaces for local gatherings, educational workshops, and events, designed to encourage community engagement and collaboration.
Designed by Wheeler Kearns Architects, the facility will have a sleek, modern aesthetic with gray metal panels on the exterior. Thoughtful landscaping will create a welcoming environment with green spaces surrounding the building. The new center will seamlessly integrate with TCA Health’s existing medical facility, forming a unified campus that serves both the health and wellness needs of the community.
The project, expected to be completed in June 2025, is led by John Keno and Co. and Millhouse Construction.
“The team is dedicated to delivering a space that meets the unique needs of Altgeld Gardens while respecting the history and aspirations of its residents,” said John Keno, President of John Keno and Co.
Long-term impact and benefits
The health and nutrition center is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the community, providing not only essential services but also fostering a sense of empowerment and connection among residents.
- Improved food access: By offering a food pantry and café, the center will dramatically improve access to fresh and nutritious food, eliminating the need for residents to travel long distances for basic groceries.
- Wellness programs: The inclusion of yoga, meditation, and educational programs will encourage residents to adopt healthier lifestyles, potentially leading to long-term health improvements.
- Community engagement: Meeting rooms and shared spaces will create opportunities for residents to come together, share ideas, and participate in events that contribute to the overall vitality of the community.
For the residents of Altgeld Gardens, the Health and Nutrition Center represents not just a building, but a beacon of hope—a resource to enhance their well-being and a tangible step toward addressing years of inequality.
Judy Lamelza writes the DataBid.com blog
