The restoration of Lazarus Apartments, a 48-unit affordable rental housing development in the North Lawndale neighborhood, is officially completed and ready to take applicants.
The unveiling of the newly renovated one- two- and three-bedroom apartments was celebrated during a ribbon-cutting on Aug. 16. Developed by the Lawndale Christian Development Corp. (LCDC), Lazarus Apartments helps address the affordable housing crisis in Chicago.
Presently, most of the units, ranging in rent from $700 to $1,100 depending on size, remain available. Those seeking more information can email LCDC at propertymanagement@lcdc.net, visit their website, https://www.lcdc.net or call their office at (773) -762-8889 and ask to speak with one of their property managers.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony provided an opportunity for people who are interested in living there to walk around and check out the new renovations.
“People remember what it looked like when it was beautiful in the ‘90s so I’m glad it’s back,” said Richard Townsell, executive director of LCDC.
The project was supported by the City of Chicago, the Illinois Housing Development Authority, Chase Bank, the Steans Family Foundation and the Pritzker Foundation. The completion of the major renovations reflects a collaborative effort to provide safe and affordable housing for individuals and families in the community amidst soaring rental prices.
The development is comprised of two buildings that are kitty-corner from each other: a 33-unit building at 1859 S Pulaski Road and a 15-unit building at 1900 S Harding Ave.
According to Townsell, the Lazarus Apartments were originally renovated in 1996, but the development was in bad shape after 27 years of use.
“It was just in horrible disrepair and not being well-managed, so we basically decided to start from scratch, rebuild the buildings and renovate it all over again,” Townsell said.
Townsell, said construction began in 2021. One building was financed by the City of Chicago and the other was financed by the Illinois Housing Development Authority, he said.
As a result of supply chain delays during the COVID-19 pandemic and some other factors, the project took longer than Townsell had anticipated. However, he’s happy they took their time and paid attention to details.
“Rushing through stuff doesn’t help when you’re doing a rehab of a building,” he said. “In the end, we don’t want it to go back into disrepair again.”
Townsell said that although the buildings are older, the renovations put a modern twist on them, prioritizing both functionality and looks.
“Affordable housing should not be a dirty word. It’s about creating beautiful, safe and desirable homes for all,” he said. “At Lazarus Apartments, we aim to demonstrate that affordable housing can be both affordable and exceptional. We envision a future where every resident has enough left over from their rent to save for homeownership.”
The units have hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances and faucets with matte black finish. They are energy-efficient and well-insulated, and there’s in-building laundry.
“We want it to look good,” Townsell said. “We have exposed brick walls and we’re not going to have just basic brown cabinets. There’s going to be color choices.”
One particularly unique feature that was unveiled during the ribbon-cutting ceremony is an art installation on the exterior of the 33- unit building at 1859 S Pulaski Road. The installation, which will be completed by fall 2024, honors the rich history of Black music in Chicago.
“Our goal is to represent all the genres of Black music in the courtyard as public art as opposed to having blank panels there,” Townsell said.
The weatherproof mosaic will eventually consist of 26 panels ranging from 32 to 70 inches, featuring vibrant depictions of artists such as Howlin’ Wolf, Magic Sam, and Otis Rush, along with musical elements and instruments. The project will be led by Alexie Young of ART WEST, Jovonna Jackson and Haman Cross of Freedom House and artist Nailah Golden.
Whittney Smith, deputy director and counsel for LCDC, said Lazarus Apartments is not just a development; it’s a symbol of renewal and resilience.
“We are proud to showcase how innovative housing solutions can revitalize communities and foster a sense of belonging and opportunity,” she said.