A pivotal project in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood broke ground in October. Earle School Apartments, an affordable housing redevelopment, will renew the former Charles Warrington Earle School.
Thanks to the collaboration of Burling Builders, the City of Chicago, and The Phoenix Foundation, Gorman & Company is trading in classrooms for 50 affordable, supportive apartment homes. The adaptive reuse project offers a mix of one- and two-bedroom homes for households with varying income levels.
Originally constructed in 1897 and closed by Chicago Public Schools (CPS) in 2014, the historic building will undergo attentive restoration. New windows and exterior cleaning will rejuvenate the former school while preserving its authenticity.
Amenities include:
- A sports court & fitness room
- Community space
- New playground
Features include energy-efficient HVAC technology and high-efficiency heat pumps and lighting, which will help the building qualify for Enterprise Green Communities certification, as well as potential ComEd incentives of more than $250,000, used to offset the costs of construction. New energy-efficient technologies are expected to save the building a total of 816,000 kilowatt-hours, helping to prevent 600,000 pounds of carbon emissions from being released into the atmosphere, which is the equivalent of planting nearly 325 acres of trees.
Residents will also have access to essential supportive services from The Phoenix Foundation and Phoenix Recovery Services. These nonprofits aim to support individuals and families with unique housing needs, contributing to the overall well-being and stability of the community.
“This project reflects Gorman & Company’s dedication to building partnerships, working alongside the community, and preserving its rich history while addressing the critical housing needs of today”
Ron Clewer, Gorman & Company’s Illinois Market President
This $33.5 million project is funded with the following:
- Tax Increment Financing (TIF)
- Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA)
- ComEd grants
- Historic tax credits.
This article by Urbanize Chicago explains which part of the historic building will be demolished and what income levels qualify for residency.
By November 2025, Earle School Apartments will welcome 50 residents into its new, affordable, supportive apartment homes in the Englewood community while preserving a historic landmark building. Those residents will then have the opportunity to feel empowered and continue revitalizing their own neighborhood.
