Chicago Construction News staff writer
The former Garfield School on Grand Avenue in Decatur will be renovated into affordable housing apartments for seniors.
The $20.7 million project is being funded by the Illinois Housing Development Authority, Decatur Housing Authority, and Bywater Development Group, a private company. Construction is expected to begin in mid-to-late 2025.
Originally constructed in 1959, the building will undergo a complete restoration and adaptive reuse to serve as high-quality affordable housing for seniors aged 55 and older. The building’s historical significance adds complexity to the restoration process, requiring careful attention to preserving its architectural integrity while modernizing it for contemporary use.
The deteriorating auditorium, which was added in the 1970s and does not hold historical value, will be demolished. This demolition clears the way for new construction that will complement the original building while adding much-needed housing units.
A new construction addition will be built on the site of the demolished auditorium, adding 31 more apartments to the complex. This expansion is crucial in meeting the demand for affordable senior housing in the area.
The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) is a key financial backer of the project, providing Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) and other development financing. Additionally, $400,000 in federal Home Investment Partnership funds has been approved by the Decatur City Council to support the project.
Adjacent to the former school building, Garfield Park is also undergoing a $250,000 renovation funded by federal sources. The park’s redesign and reactivation are integral to the overall revitalization plan, creating a vibrant, green space for residents to enjoy.
The project is part of a larger, long-term strategy for community revitalization in Decatur. The city plans to introduce mixed-income housing and new retail spaces to the area in future phases, leveraging the recently approved Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district that includes the Garfield School property.
