Grace Manor Breaking Ground in North Lawndale

Special to Chicago Construction News

In North Lawndale, a significant stride towards addressing affordable housing needs is underway with the groundbreaking of Grace Manor at 3401 W Ogden Avenue. This mixed-use development is not just a construction project; it’s a visionary embodiment of community and inclusivity.

Project Overview
– Location: 3401 W. Ogden Ave., Chicago, IL, United States
– Industry: Residential, Social Housing/Public Housing
– Project Class: General Building
– Expected Completion: Spring 2025

The Collaborative Effort Behind Grace Manor

The project, a collaborative effort of East Lake Management, Jerusalem CDC, and architectural firm JGMA, represents a synergy of expertise and commitment. Grace Manor is set to replace a parking lot, promising a transformative impact on the local landscape.

Architectural Excellence and Community Focus

Architectural Design:

JGMA Architects have crafted an angular, six-story structure that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The building will feature a unique façade of glass and multi-colored metal panels, creating a striking gradient from green to blue.

Community Engagement:

The design includes a plaza and green space, fostering community interaction. A 1,630-square-foot café and community center with outdoor seating will become a hub for residents and locals alike.

Innovative Layout and Amenities

– Ground Floor: Housing a fitness room, amenity space, laundry facilities, and an 18-vehicle parking lot
– Residential Units: 65 units in total, including 31 one-bedrooms and 34 two-bedrooms. A significant portion of these units will be affordable housing options
– Outdoor Spaces: Select units will feature inset balconies, and residents will have access to a rooftop deck.

Financial Structure and Construction Plans

With an overall budget of $40 million, the project has secured $5.5 million in Tax Increment Financing. Burling Builders Inc. has taken the reins as the general contractor, marking the beginning of a construction journey that promises to redefine affordable living in Chicago.

Diverse Construction Divisions

Grace Manor encompasses various construction divisions, ensuring a comprehensive and high-quality build. These include:

Division 02 – Existing Conditions
– Site Assessment: Surveying, environmental assessment, and site remediation.
– Demolition and Structure Moving: Removal of existing structures and relocation processes.
– Subsurface Investigation: Geotechnical engineering and soil testing.

Division 03 – Concrete
– Concrete Formwork, Reinforcement, and Foundations: Structures for concrete placement, steel reinforcement, and foundation systems.
– Concrete Mix, Pouring, and Finishing: Different concrete mixes, pouring techniques, and surface treatments.

Division 04 – Masonry

– Brick, Stone, and Block Work: Construction using various types of bricks, stones, and concrete blocks.
– Masonry Restoration and Cleaning: Maintenance and cleaning of masonry structures.

Division 05 – Metals

– Structural Metal Framing: Steel and metal framing systems.
– Metal Fabrications: Custom metal works like stairs, railings, and grilles.

Division 06 – Wood, Plastics, and Composites

– Rough Carpentry and Finish Carpentry: Wood framing, sheathing, trim, and millwork.
– Plastics and Composites: Use of non-wood materials for construction.

Division 07 – Thermal and Moisture Protection

– Insulation, Waterproofing, and Roofing: Building insulation, waterproofing systems, and various types of roofing materials.

Division 08 – Openings

– Doors, Windows, and Skylights: Installation of doors, windows, and skylights.
– Hardware and Glazing: Door and window hardware, glass and glazing systems.

Division 09 – Finishes

– Drywall, Plastering, and Painting: Installation of drywall, application of plaster, and painting.
– Flooring and Wall Coverings: Various types of flooring materials and wall coverings.

Division 10 – Specialties

– Toilet, Bath, and Laundry Accessories: Fixtures and accessories for bathrooms and laundry rooms.
– Fire Protection Specialties: Fire extinguishers, cabinets, and safety equipment.

Division 11 – Equipment

– Appliances and Furnishings Equipment: Kitchen appliances, gym equipment, and other specialized equipment.
– Vehicle Service Equipment: Equipment for vehicle maintenance and service.

Division 12 – Furnishings

– Window Treatments and Furniture: Drapes, blinds, furniture, and decorative items.
– Artwork and Accessories: Installation of artwork and decorative accessories.

Division 14 – Conveying Equipment

– Elevators and Escalators: Installation and maintenance of elevators, escalators, and moving walkways.
– Dumbwaiters and Lifts: Small freight lifts and accessibility equipment.

Division 21 – Fire Suppression

– Sprinkler Systems: Design and installation of fire sprinkler systems.
– Fire Suppression Equipment: Fire hoses, pumps, and related equipment.

Division 22 – Plumbing

– Water Supply and Distribution: Piping, fixtures, and systems for water distribution.
– Sanitary and Storm Drainage: Systems for waste and stormwater management.

Division 23 – HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)

– Heating and Cooling Systems: Furnaces, boilers, air conditioners, and related systems.
– Ventilation and Air Distribution: Ductwork, air handlers, and ventilation systems.

Division 25 – Integrated Automation

– Building Management Systems: Systems for monitoring and controlling building functions.
– Automation Control Devices: Sensors, controls, and related technology.

Division 26 – Electrical

– Electrical Distribution: Wiring, conduit, electrical panels, and distribution systems.
– Lighting and Fixtures: Interior and exterior lighting systems and fixtures.

Division 27 – Communications

– Data and Telecommunications Systems: Networking, data cabling, and telecommunications systems.
– Audio-Visual Systems: Equipment and systems for audio-visual presentations.

Division 28 – Electronic Safety and Security

– Security and Surveillance Systems: CCTV, alarms, and access control systems.
– Fire Alarm Systems: Smoke detectors, fire alarms, and related systems.

Division 31 – Earthwork

– Grading and Excavation: Site preparation, grading, and excavation work.
– Trenching and Backfilling: Trenches for utilities and backfill operations.

Division 32 – Exterior Improvements

– Landscaping and Irrigation: Planting, irrigation systems, and outdoor amenities.
– Paving and Surfacing: Asphalt, concrete paving, and surface treatments.

Division 33 – Utilities

– Utility Services: Water, sewer

Grace Manor is more than a building; it’s a symbol of progress in affordable housing. By integrating residential units with community spaces, fitness amenities, and retail opportunities, it stands as a model for future developments in urban settings.

DataBid is currently reporting on this project – Grace Manor Affordable Housing Development – Chicago  (0047040622)

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