Details have been revealed as funding has been initially approved for a new shelter at 2508 W 21st Street in Little Village. Located just east of the intersection with S Rockwell Street, the shelter will redevelop an existing industrial building sitting next to the elevated rail embankments. Efforts for the project are being led by Franciscan Outreach with LBBA serving as the architects.
Site map of 2508 W 21st Street via Google Maps
Originally built in 1900 and expanded multiple times since then, the brick-clad 45,000-square-foot loft building and its various wings are currently mostly vacant and the area experiences high levels of homelessness. Thus in partnership with the Department of Housing, the building will become a 120-bed non-congregate shelter.
Current view inside of 2508 W 21st Street via LoopNet
The building itself will have its original facade repaired along with a roof replacement, mechanical upgrades, and more. Inside the largely open floor plans will be subdivided into dorm-style units where two to four small sleeping rooms will share a small common space and restroom. There will also be an overflow room with 36 cots.
Floor plans of 2508 W 21st Street by LBBA
Those staying in the space will have access to additional restrooms, laundry, dining room computer lounge, and a clothing closet. There will also be a large portion of office space for on-site services and care in collaboration with other third party organizations. The work will also include a small five-vehicle parking lot, and two small outdoor spaces.
Site plan of 2508 W 21st Street by LBBA
With an overall cost of $25.5 million, the shelter received initial approval from the Community Development Commission for $15 million in TIF money. Once fully approved, this will be joined by a $7.5 million grant from the DOH as well as donations and more. Construction is set to start in January and be completed by mid-2026 by Walsh Construction.
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I’m happy to see a non-congregant shelter. These seem to be more successful. I’m kind of surprised that there aren’t environmental issues with an old industrial building.
There probably are… but agreed on being non-congregant