Fifth City Commons affordable housing project opens on West Side of Chicago

CHICAGO (CBS) -- A new affordable housing project debuted in the East Garfield Park neighborhood on Thursday, marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The Fifth City Commons, located at 3155 W. Fifth Ave., comprises a three-story building featuring 43 apartments along with various community amenities, including resident terraces, fitness facilities, and multiple laundry rooms.

Developers invested $38 million into this project, emphasizing environmental sustainability. The all-electric design avoids natural gas for heating and cooking, and incorporates solar panels that will generate approximately two-thirds of the building's energy needs. Additional eco-friendly features include a stormwater retention system, electric vehicle charging stations, and onsite composting.

Mayor Brandon Johnson spoke at the grand opening, affirming that safe, affordable, and sustainable housing constitutes a fundamental human right. He highlighted the administration's commitment to fostering resilient opportunities for families, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and promoting growth within the green economy for all Chicagoans.

The project also aims to support local businesses, with Semicolon Bookstore—a Black woman-owned establishment that previously closed in the River West neighborhood—opening a new store in the development.

Plans for a second phase of the project include an additional 30 apartments and will be located directly across the street. With its proximity to both the CTA Blue Line and Green Line, the Fifth City Commons ensures convenient access to public transportation for residents.