Chicago Construction News staff writer
Construction has begun on the redevelopment of the long-vacant former Solo Cup Co. property in Highland Park, marking the start of a 227-home townhome community on a site that has sat empty for nearly two decades.
Habitat and M/I Homes held a groundbreaking of The Bowery of Highland Park, a residential community planned for the approximately 28-acre property at 1700 Old Deerfield Rd.
The project received approval from the Highland Park City Council in February and the land acquisition was completed in May.
Construction of the first homes is expected to begin this fall, with the first residents anticipated to move in during spring 2027. Sales are scheduled to launch later this year.
“Reaching this groundbreaking milestone reinforces Habitat’s decision to form a joint venture partnership with a highly experienced homebuilder like M/I Homes,” Habitat president Matt Fiascone said in a statement. “This is an exciting moment for the project, and we look forward to The Bowery of Highland Park delivering much-needed housing opportunities to Chicago’s North Shore.”
When complete, the development will include 48 townhome buildings with 227 homes. Buyers will be able to choose from three floor plans ranging from approximately 1,747 to 2,086 sq. ft. The homes will feature open-concept layouts, flexible first-floor living spaces and attached two-car garages.
A total of 34 homes will be designated for qualifying households under Highland Park’s Inclusionary Housing Plan.
In addition to new housing, more than nine acres of the site will be preserved as open space. Plans call for landscaped streets, pedestrian connections and community gathering areas, along with a clubhouse, outdoor swimming pool, dog park and tot lot.
The redevelopment is intended to improve connectivity with surrounding neighbourhoods while transforming one of Highland Park’s largest underused properties into a walkable residential community.
The site is located near downtown Highland Park, major transportation routes, shopping, restaurants and recreational amenities.
