Crews in Oak Park, Illinois, have begun work on rehabbing the vacant Comcast building into 51 units of affordable housing, according to a report dated November 5, 2012. At the moment, they’re concentrating on the outside of the structure and are dismantling the fake façade that covers the entire building, according to Oak Park’s planner, Craig Failor. They’ve also begun work on some interior spaces.
The project has been in the works for almost two years, and is the brainchild of the Interfaith Housing Development Corp., which obtained the permit to renovate the building. So far, the work is proceeding on schedule and is expected to be finished by summer, 2013, with full occupancy by next October.
The renovation fits in with Oak Park’s commitment to acceptance and diversity, along with the need to revitalize some sections of the village, including Madison Street where the building is located. It also promises decent, affordable housing for the working poor.
In addition to single-family housing units located on the second, third and fourth floors, there is a 5,200 square foot space on the ground floor that can be leased by a retail enterprise, though no one is yet under contract. Rent for the units is estimated at approximately $700 per month, and people 18 or older who earn $26,300 or less annually quality for housing in the building.
The village could have Flyers printed for wide dissemination describing the building, its amenities and qualifications needed to live there. They could include photos of the renovations.Get a Free Quote for Flyers
