Former Charles Warrington Earle School Getting New Life as Affordable Apartment Community
Construction Begins on Historic School
Developers are kick-starting work to convert the former Charles Warrington Earle School into affordable apartments after the Englewood property was one of 50 schools to close its doors more than a decade ago.
New Roof, Windows, and Enclosure
Wisconsin-based Gorman & Co. anticipates the project — with 100% affordable units — will welcome its first residents in December 2025. The developer held a groundbreaking event on Tuesday at the school, 6121 S. Hermitage Ave. The building is currently getting a new roof, followed by windows, so it can be enclosed before winter.
Affordable Units Available
Called the Earle School Apartments, the property will have 50 units and be available to those making 15% to 60% of the area median income. That means the monthly rent could be as low as $315 for a one-bedroom apartment, not including utilities. Most of the apartments will be one-bedroom units, and the remaining 20 will be two-bedroom units.
Preservation and Repurposing
Gorman will be renovating the school’s exterior to mirror its original 1897 facade. New windows will replicate the building’s original style, as well as the trim and moldings. Gorman’s in-house architecture team is working alongside Englewood architecture firm Beehyyve on the project.
Supportive Services and Community Impact
Gorman is partnering with Chicago-based Phoenix Foundation and Phoenix Recovery Services to offer support to individuals and families with “unique housing needs,” according to the developer. “This project will ensure not only the creation of quality housing, but the delivery of essential supportive services that empower residents to thrive,” said Sherri Allen-Reeves, executive director of Phoenix Foundation.
Project Details
The conversion is a $33.6 million project, according to Clewer, with funding sources that include state and federal historic tax credits, ComEd, the Illinois Housing Development Authority, and Chicago’s Department of Housing.
Groundbreaking Ceremony
Christine Haley, Illinois’ chief homelessness officer, smashed a wall as part of a groundbreaking ceremony for the Earle School Apartments in Englewood.
Conclusion
The adaptive reuse project aims to preserve the school’s historic facade while providing affordable housing and supportive services to the community. The development is expected to have a positive impact on the Englewood neighborhood, creating quality housing and empowering residents to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the estimated completion date for the Earle School Apartments?
A: The project is expected to be completed in December 2025.
Q: How many units will be available at the Earle School Apartments?
A: The property will have 50 units, with 20 two-bedroom units and the remaining 30 one-bedroom units.
Q: What is the target income range for residents at the Earle School Apartments?
A: The property will be available to those making 15% to 60% of the area median income.
Q: Will the project offer any supportive services to residents?
A: Yes, the Earle School Apartments will partner with Phoenix Foundation and Phoenix Recovery Services to offer supportive services to individuals and families with “unique housing needs.”
