Lincoln Park’s 1804 N Marcey Project Gets Community Support, Despite City Pushback
Community Meeting Showcases Strong Support for Sterling Bay’s Development
A large number of housing advocates at a Wednesday night community meeting in Lincoln Park voiced their support for Sterling Bay’s contentious 1804 N Marcey project.
Background on the Project
The development, which would add more than 100 units of affordable housing, was previously rejected by the city’s Zoning Committee and missed a full City Council vote in December. However, the community meeting is the next step in triggering a provision in the city’s Connected Communities Ordinance, which would give the project automatic approval by the zoning committee and move it to a full Council vote.
Aldermanic Prerogative at Stake
The move would put Sterling Bay over the finish line for a project it first introduced in 2021. It would also challenge aldermanic prerogative, the longstanding process of alders wielding authority over new developments in their wards. Ald. Scott Waguespack (32nd) opposes the project, expressing concern over the towers’ height and area congestion during a June 2024 Plan Commission meeting when the project was approved.
Project Details
Sterling Bay is proposing a 16-story and a 21-story building at 1840 N. Marcey St., near its Lincoln Yards development. The two-building project would have 615 total units, including 124 affordable units. There will be retail and green space, as well as improved bike lanes and a new Divvy station. It also expects to create more than 3,200 construction jobs.
Affordability and Pricing
Units would be affordable for those making up to $47,100 a year. Market-rate one-bedroom apartments would be about $3,600 per month. Two-bedroom units would rent for about $5,000, and three-bedrooms would rent for $8,000, according to Sterling Bay.
Community Support
About 100 people attended Wednesday’s meeting, with many speaking about the dire need for more housing in Chicago, especially affordable units. Marisa Novara, vice president of community impact at Chicago Community Trust, was the Chicago Department of Housing commissioner when the Connected Communities Ordinance passed. She was a proponent of including the provision Sterling Bay will now pioneer.
Rendering of the Project
Rendering of Sterling Bay’s 1804 N Marcey project.
Opposition from Neighborhood Group
The Ranch Triangle Community Conservation Association isn’t on board. The association’s president, Erma Tranter, stressed that the organization isn’t opposed to new or affordable housing in the corridor — she and other neighbors are against the height. Several neighbors asked about the possibility of taking away units and lowering the density.
Conclusion
The Lincoln Park community has spoken, and it’s clear that they support Sterling Bay’s 1804 N Marcey project. While some may have concerns about the project’s density and height, the community as a whole recognizes the need for more affordable housing in the area. As the city continues to grapple with the issue of affordable housing, it’s crucial that we listen to the voices of community members and work together to find solutions.
FAQs
* What is the 1804 N Marcey project?
+ A mixed-use development with 615 total units, including 124 affordable units.
* What is the purpose of the Connected Communities Ordinance?
+ To promote dense development with reduced parking and affordability near transit options.
* What is aldermanic prerogative?
+ The longstanding process of alders wielding authority over new developments in their wards.
* How many construction jobs is the project expected to create?
+ More than 3,200.
