Chantico South is now FHA approved! With as little as 3.5% down, buyers can purchase at this exciting development.
9:00 PM - February 12, 2009 - {0} -
View more entries tagged with: None
 Exciting new development! Nine unit elevator building with six unique floor plans. Located in East Pilsen just south of University Commons. 1621 S Carpenter
One beds from $199,900
Two beds from $299,900
Three beds from $409,900
Floor Plans
Building Specs
Virtual Tour
8:48 PM - October 21, 2008 - {0} -
View more entries tagged with: New Construction
I found a wonderful article with tips for keeping cool on the Green Living Tips website. Because my target audience is the midwest and the author lives in a desert state, I have only reprinted sections of his original article. To read more about the author or to read his article in its entirety:
Michael Bloch
Green Living Tips.com
Green Living Tips is an online resource powered by renewable energy offering a wide variety of earth friendly tips, green guides, advice and environment related news to help consumers and business reduce costs, consumption and environmental impact on the planet.
Tips for Staying Cool
- The use of ceiling and pedestal fans. While a fan on its own doesn't reduce temperature, the movement of air over your skin evaporates perspiration causing a cooling effect - making the temperature feel up to 8 degrees cooler. You don't need to be sitting directly in front of the fan to feel some benefit - it's just a matter of getting air inside the room moving.
- Gaps around doors and windows should be sealed to prevent hot air entering the house.
- All electrical appliances generate heat; particularly refrigerators and TV's. If you're not watching the TV, switch it off. Encourage your family not to have the refrigerator door open for extended periods and don't overload your fridge. Turn off any appliance at the wall you're not using (this will also reduce standby power consumption)
- Switch from incandescent bulbs to Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL's) as 80% - 90% of the energy consumed by incandescent lighting is wasted through heat. CFL's will also save you money in electricity.
- Try to confine physical activity such as housework to the early hours of the day or late in the evening. Not only will physical activity increase your internal body temperature, but your body will exude heat, upping the temperature inside your home.
- Try to prepare foods that require the least amount of cooking as possible and use a microwave where you can. Ensure your range hood exhaust fan is switched while cooking.
- Wear clothing that breathes, such as cotton. Avoid wearing shoes as our feet are also designed to be efficient heat exchangers.
- Curtains and shades should be a light color to help reflect the heat.
- Keep rooms you don't use often closed off.
- Plant trees around your house to provide a shade buffer between the sun and your walls. Use deciduous trees on the northern or southern side (depending on the hemisphere you live in) so you can still take advantage of passive solar warming in winter.
- Discourage your family from coming in and out of the house excessively. Each time the door is opened, a substantial blast of hot air will follow.
- Drink plenty of fluids, but steer clear of alcohol and sugar laden drinks.
It does get to a stage in some parts of the world where the above simply won't be enough. If you are considering buying an air conditioner, there are three types commonly used in homes:
Evaporative air conditioning
These units are also known as air, swamp or desert coolers and range in size from portable units suitable for single rooms to massive installations that can cope with entire complexes.
Evaporative air conditioners use a fan that draws in air and moves it through a wet filter. As the hot air passes through the filter (usually made of paper or straw), the water evaporates which cools and humidifies the air. Depending on temperature and external humidity, evaporative air coolers can reduce indoor temperatures by as much as 30° F (17° C).
Evaporative air conditioning isn't a new invention - as mentioned above, nature has installed evaporative cooler in our own bodies in the form of perspiration. Artificial evaporative air conditioning was invented thousands of years ago in Iran. In its simplest form, a wind shaft in the roof of a dwelling would channel air over a small pond of water, cooling the air before being blown into the house. The Iranians had far more complex and efficient installations as well that still rival any modern electrical cooling appliance in terms of effectiveness.
Evaporative coolers are best suited to desert environments - they are incredibly effective in dry air climates. An evaporative cooler used in a humid environment will be totally ineffective and likely make discomfort even worse.
One of the great aspects of evaporative air conditioning is maintenance and running cost - up to 80% less than other forms of artificial air cooling. An evaporative air cooler is usually around 50% cheaper to purchase also. A negative aspect of evaporative air conditioning is water usage - around 3.5 gallons per hour for a ducted system on the average home; but refrigerated air conditioning also involves the use of water indirectly through increased electricity consumption.
If you find that only a single room in your home really needs air conditioning, small mobile evaporative cooling units can be purchased for under a hundred dollars.
Important tip: Evaporative air conditioning works best when you leave a couple of doors or large windows open - the cooling effect is dependent upon air turning over within a house. By running evaporative air conditioning with the house entirely shut up, you will increase humidity to uncomfortable levels and this can also cause issues with mold and electrical equipment malfunctions.
It may sound odd having a door open when it's 115 outside, but as long as the door or window left open is on the opposite side of external air movement and not in direct sunlight, heat from outside will not enter - the air pressure from inside will keep it out. If you have an outdoors barbecue area or pergola attached to the house, it's a great way to keep that a tad cooler too!
Refrigerated air conditioning
This type works very much the same way as your refrigerator, using the evaporation of a refrigerant liquid in a closed system to provide cooling. A compressor compresses the gas, which heats it. The gas then passes through coils allowing the heat to dissipate and for the gas to condense into a pressurized liquid. The pressurised liquid then passes through an expansion valve where it it hits a low pressure area due to the vaccuum action of the compressor at the other end of the line. It then becomes a gas again at a much lower temperature, cooling the pipe that contains it. This gas flows through an insulated line to to a console unit containing a series of coils with a fan behind it; which sucks air from the room over the coils, cooling the air and then pushing it back into your home.
A refrigerated air conditioning unit basically recycles the air in your home, whereas an evaporative system draws it from outside. Refrigerated air conditioning also removes humidity from the air through the condensation of moisture on the cold evaporator coils. This condensate is drawn away to either evaporate in a pan over the warm condensor coils or just run directly outside.
While refrigerated air conditioning doesn't directly use water, it does use a great deal more electricity than evaporative air cooling. That's where the water usage lies; in the electricity generation process. When this is taken into account, the amount of water used by refrigerated cooling unit is approximately two thirds that of an evaporative unit.
Dehumidifier
Not as common for cooling applications as refrigerated or evaporative air conditioning, dehumidifiers are sometimes used in tropical locations to remove moisture from the air - a major contributor to a feeling of discomfort in higher temperatures. In a dehumidifier system, moisture laden air is drawn over a coil, much like a refrigerated airconditioner's evaporator coils. Moisture from the air condenses on the coils, then drips into a pan or is piped into a drain. The air then moves over another warmer coil and is then blown back into the room.
While the resulting air isn't really cooled, with the excess moisture removed it makes higher temperatures more tolerable. Dehumidifiers are used in situations where humidity is too high for an evaporative cooler, but refrigerated cooling cannot be used. The amount of electricity consumed is about half that of a comparable refrigerated air conditioning unit.
Artificial air conditioning is a luxury
The human race survived relatively well before air conditioning was powered by electricity and complex manufactured systems. The arrival of moden artificial cooling is somewhat a blessing and a curse due to the large amounts of energy required to run these systems - we need to use it wisely and see it as a luxury and privilege.
If you do run an air conditioner, before switching the cool on, try just running the fan for while until things really start heating up - it can save substantial energy and water. Also remember that the aim is to stay cool so you can function, not to create a refrigerator type environment - experiment with thermostat settings and find the highest possible temperature before you start feeling too uncomfortable.
I've noticed some houses in my neighborhood run their air conditioning units 24/7 at times over summer; but don't bother closing curtains or taking other low/no-cost steps to minimize heat entering into their homes. It's annoying to hear the hum of all the motors of a night time and the practice consumes an incredible amount of electricity.
I think we all need to toughen up just a bit when it comes to our expectations of acceptable living comfort levels. Our planet now depends upon it.
8:28 AM - July 23, 2008 - {0} -
View more entries tagged with: Green Living
eco18, a 93-unit environmentally responsible new-construction condominium development, is underway at 1818 S. Wabash Ave. in Chicago’s burgeoning South Loop neighborhood.
“eco18 is a very special condominium development that dramatically raises the bar on green living in Chicago,” said developer Rick Turner, president of Dynaprop Development Corp. “Green living is part of the DNA at eco18, the first large scale condominium development in Chicago to seek LEED Gold Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council,” said Turner. “eco18 will include landmark environmental features such as a geothermal energy system, hot water heated with solar panels, and an elaborate green roof-top garden.”
LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.
“Green building design is the wave of the future,” noted condominium appraiser Gail Lissner, vice president of Appraisal Research Counselors Ltd. “Over the next several years, we expect to see increasing importance of green elements and LEED certification in new-construction developments such as eco18.”
Turner outlined the following details of the environmentally responsible features planned at eco18:
A geothermal energy system- The system will consist of piping dug 450 feet into the ground, which will provide energy efficient heating and cooling year round. Turner compared eco18’s geothermal technology to a house’s naturally cool basement during the summer. “Scale that basement system up and you’ll have an idea of how geothermal works to reduce heating and cooling energy demand at eco18,” Turner said. “It’s hard at work under your feet and you won’t even know it.”
The geothermal ground source heat pump system, which will reduce heating and cooling costs, is the largest one of its kind in the City of Chicago, Turner said.
Solar heated hot water- More than 70 solar panels on the 12th floor roof of the building will create almost one-half of the hot water at eco18. “There are no harmful ozone emissions with solar panels, and it uses the sun, an endless energy source, to heat the water supply rather than depletable sources such as coal or natural gas,” Turner said.
An elaborate green rooftop garden- Planned for the fourth floor (over the garage) at eco18, the 12,000-square-foot garden minimizes heat island effects, reduces rain water runoff and insulates the building, according to Turner.
“This green space, filled with a variety of plants, will provide owners with a private recreation patio offering great views of downtown Chicago,” he said. A private dog run is also located on the fourth-floor rooftop.
The ultra energy efficient building is insulated to minimize heat and cooling loss. The building also utilizes low energy fluorescent lighting throughout. Energy Star appliances are standard.
The ventilation system recaptures energy ordinarily wasted from exhaust air to reduce energy use in the common area. All energy-saving methods lead to reduced monthly assessments at eco18, Turner said.
He said the combined efficiencies provide a protection against rising energy costs. The building design reduces greenhouse gas emissions and it leaves a smaller carbon-footprint compared to conventionally-built condominium buildings, he said.
A limited number of preferred parking spaces will be available for hybrid vehicles. The building is also in close proximity to public transportation.
“eco18 embodies classic architecture, great views, modern amenities and great value in the South Loop,” said Charles Huzenis, president of Jameson Realty Group, the exclusive sales and marketing agent for the development.
Plans for the development call for two classically detailed 12-story buildings with stone facades accented with octagon turrets and recessed balconies with wrought-iron railings. Each building will feature 93 condominium units.
The mix-use development will also feature 18,000 square feet of retail space on the ground floor and heated indoor parking for approximately 194 cars. Ground floor retail is accessible without leaving the building.
eco18 will have 1-bedroom, 1-bedroom-plus den, 2-bedroom and 2-bedroom-plus den residences with 1 or 2 baths and 809 to 1,583 square feet of living space. Pre-construction base prices range from the mid-$200,000s to the upper-$500,000 bracket. Heated garage parking is available for $29,900.
“Through careful planning, many units at eco18 take advantage of premium views of Chicago’s Loop and the city,” Turner said. “Additionally, recessed terraces on the street frontage provide wonderful private outdoor space, and other residences feature balconies overlooking the green rooftop,” he said. Turner also noted that more than 50 percent of all units have downtown skyline views.
Turner said the development will be built in two stages with 93 residential units in Phase I. A 93-unit Phase II also is planned.
The condominiums, designed by architects Wight & Company, showcase open floor plans and large living spaces, a gourmet kitchen with eat-in bar and ample closet space. Many units have a separate office nook that’s perfect for home entrepreneurs. All residential units at eco18 feature ceiling heights of 9.5 feet.
Unit 1211, a 2-bedroom-plus den, 2-bath corner penthouse, features an expansive wrap-around terrace and 1,583 square feet of living area.
Guests to the residence enter a foyer leading to a spacious 21.5-by-20.5-foot living/dining area. An adjoining gourmet kitchen with a countertop bar area that is ideal for entertaining has stainless-steel appliances, custom-built cabinets with 42-inch uppers in a variety of finishes and Moen faucets. Granite and limestone countertops are offered in a range of colors.
The living/dining area opens to a large 17-by-19-foot corner terrace with great northern views of the Chicago skyline. The 9.5-by-10-foot den is accessible from the terrace and kitchen.
On the south side of the residence is the spacious master bedroom suite, a 12.5-by-16-foot room with an additional private terrace (13-by-6-feet) and large walk-in-closet (6-by-11-feet).
The second bedroom is 12-by-11.5 feet. Bedrooms features recyclable carpeting in a choice of colors and textures and wire closet shelving.
The master bath includes a white subway tile tub and shower surround. Baths have ceramic stone flooring, Moen faucets, wood cabinets that match kitchen selections and a choice of granite, limestone or marble vanity top. A laundry room, with designed for a side-by-side washer/dryer, is off the foyer.
Other features of the residence include: bamboo flooring, solid exterior and interior doors, brushed chrome door hardware, Category-5 wiring, pre-wired for speakers in the living room and track lighting.
Residents at eco18 will reside near Lake Michigan, Grant Park and the Central Business District. Attractions in close proximity to the development include the Museum Campus, Soldier Field, McCormick Place convention center, Navy Pier, Chinatown, the main public library and several larger vintage hotels.
“All of these attractions, in addition to restaurants and grocery stores, are within walking distance of the new development,” Turner said. A two-level Jewel/Osco store is open at Wabash Avenue and Roosevelt Road plus Dominicks and a Whole Foods which is underway.
Residents are also close to great blues and jazz clubs and upscale restaurants. The list of trendy restaurants includes: South Coast, 1700 S. Michigan Ave., Room 21, 2110 S. Wabash, Opera, 1301 S. Wabash, Zapatista, 1307 S. Wabash and Quatro, 2030 S. Wabash. These restaurants join such established eateries as Chicago Firehouse, 1401 S. Michigan, Gioco, 1312 S. Wabash, Hackney’s Printers’ Row, 733 S. Dearborn, Room 12, 30 E. Roosevelt, as well as Grace O’Malleys on South Michigan Avenue.
Other South Loop night spots include Buddy Guys Legends, 754 S. Wabash, HotHouse, 31 E. Balbo, Kasey’s Tavern, 701 S. Dearborn and Tantrum, 1023 S. State.
eco18 is also minutes away from transportation. Major Chicago highways in close proximity include the Dan Ryan, Kennedy, Stevenson, Eisenhower and Lake Shore Drive. The new development also provides easy access to CTA train and bus lines and Metra.
For more than two decades Dynaprop Development Corp. has provided value and satisfaction to buyers of homes in the communities of Chicago.
“We began as a restorer of vintage properties preserving the integrity of existing historical and classical Chicago architecture, while providing ingenuity in the planning of new interior development,” Turner said.
Dynaprop combines classic design, thoughtful unit planning and first-rate building materials in each of its developments, earning a reputation as a premier residential developer.
Dynaprop’s prior projects include: Pointe 1900 on State, which is nearing sell-out stage, 1910 S. Michigan Condominium, 1918 S. Michigan Lofts, Library Lofts at 900 N. Paulina, Racine Court at 4630-4640 N. Racine, The Copperstone at 4655-4657 N. Hermitage, and Evergreen Condominium at 1340-1346 N. North Park, Clifton Row Condominium at 3124-3134 N. Clifton, 1414-1416 W. Hollywood Condominium, Wayne Grace Condominium at 3762-3766 N. Wayne, and 1120 W. Armitage Condominium.
The eco18 sales center and model located at 1830 S. Wabash is open Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. For more information call Jameson Realty Group at 312-751-0300, or visit www.eco18.com.
Capri Capital Partners, LLC in a joint venture with Judson Investment Company has announced it will develop 'The Metropolis,' a proposed three phase mixed-use project located at the intersection of South State Street and Pershing Road (39th Street) on the south side of Chicago.
'Beyond economic development for the community, the ultimate design intent of Metropolis is to create a 'city center' for the near south side of Chicago,' said Quintin E. Primo III, Chairman & CEO of Capri. 'Importantly, the project addresses the chronic lack of commercial retail in the area and will offer market rate and affordable housing to the growing community. Twenty percent of the 102 condominiums will be reserved for low- and moderate-income buyers, earning no more than 80% of the area's median per capita income.
'This extraordinary investment in this particular place demonstrates confidence in Chicago's vision for the transformation of places once dominated by decaying public housing into new communities of hope,' said Jonathan F. Fanton, President of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, and a founder of The Partnership for New Communities, a group of Chicago business and civic leaders dedicated to community revitalization. Primo is a member of The Partnership Board.
'Our mission is not about fixing up a block or two, not about a few high-profile social programs, not about a temporary fix,' Fanton said. 'Transformation means deep, widespread, and permanent change. So, we applaud Quintin and Capri Capital Partners for looking beyond the surface... for listening to what the data were actually saying about the marketplace... for imagining what could be... and for demonstrating the leadership to make it happen.'
'The architectural vision for Metropolis is an abstract expression of Bronzeville's unique cultural history,' said Ross Wimer, Design Partner at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP ('SOM'). 'The building façades recall the repeated musical patterns of blues and jazz and the residential unit layouts invoke harmonious rhythms and the ideals of freedom and flexibility.
'A public venue celebrating African American history and culture will be located in the central, curvilinear public park,' added Wimer. 'It will encourage learning, activity and dialogue between the retail spaces and the public. At the corner of State and Pershing, the proposed digital clock tower announces both the new landmark development and the renaissance of the historic Bronzeville/Grand Boulevard neighborhood.
CB Richard Ellis is the exclusive leasing agent for Metropolis.
'We're extremely encouraged by the anticipated transformation of this market,' said Todd Caruso, Regional Head of Retail for CB Richard Ellis. 'The Metropolis is well-positioned between the Roosevelt Road retail corridor north and new retail development occurring on 87th Street south. The lack of retail supply in the general area should allow the project to readily draw shoppers from the surrounding 15 neighborhood communities.'
'This project is important to the south side, and the numbers speak for themselves,' said Primo. 'According to MetroEdge, approximately $671 million of the total $909 million in mid-south consumer expenditures represent 'retail leakage,' or dollars spent by residents outside their community.'
'The project is historically significant in so many ways,' said Hugh Williams, President and CEO of Judson Investment Company. 'As minority-owned firms, Judson and Capri understand that Metropolis sits in the middle of an underserved area in the early stages of a rebirth. It will attract middle- and upper-income residents that will integrate with existing low-income area residents, who have been denied access to grocery stores and other simple amenities that people want in their neighborhoods.'
The site is bordered by Pershing Road (39th Street) to the North, 40th Street to the South, Chicago Rock Island Railroad Embankment to the West and State Street to the East.
'Beyond economic development for the community, the ultimate design intent of Metropolis is to create a 'city center' for the near south side of Chicago,' said Quintin E. Primo III, Chairman & CEO of Capri. 'Importantly, the project addresses the chronic lack of commercial retail in the area and will offer market rate and affordable housing to the growing community. Twenty percent of the 102 condominiums will be reserved for low- and moderate-income buyers, earning no more than 80% of the area's median per capita income.
'This extraordinary investment in this particular place demonstrates confidence in Chicago's vision for the transformation of places once dominated by decaying public housing into new communities of hope,' said Jonathan F. Fanton, President of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, and a founder of The Partnership for New Communities, a group of Chicago business and civic leaders dedicated to community revitalization. Primo is a member of The Partnership Board.
'Our mission is not about fixing up a block or two, not about a few high-profile social programs, not about a temporary fix,' Fanton said. 'Transformation means deep, widespread, and permanent change. So, we applaud Quintin and Capri Capital Partners for looking beyond the surface... for listening to what the data were actually saying about the marketplace... for imagining what could be... and for demonstrating the leadership to make it happen.'
'The architectural vision for Metropolis is an abstract expression of Bronzeville's unique cultural history,' said Ross Wimer, Design Partner at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP ('SOM'). 'The building façades recall the repeated musical patterns of blues and jazz and the residential unit layouts invoke harmonious rhythms and the ideals of freedom and flexibility.
'A public venue celebrating African American history and culture will be located in the central, curvilinear public park,' added Wimer. 'It will encourage learning, activity and dialogue between the retail spaces and the public. At the corner of State and Pershing, the proposed digital clock tower announces both the new landmark development and the renaissance of the historic Bronzeville/Grand Boulevard neighborhood.
CB Richard Ellis is the exclusive leasing agent for Metropolis.
'We're extremely encouraged by the anticipated transformation of this market,' said Todd Caruso, Regional Head of Retail for CB Richard Ellis. 'The Metropolis is well-positioned between the Roosevelt Road retail corridor north and new retail development occurring on 87th Street south. The lack of retail supply in the general area should allow the project to readily draw shoppers from the surrounding 15 neighborhood communities.'
'This project is important to the south side, and the numbers speak for themselves,' said Primo. 'According to MetroEdge, approximately $671 million of the total $909 million in mid-south consumer expenditures represent 'retail leakage,' or dollars spent by residents outside their community.'
'The project is historically significant in so many ways,' said Hugh Williams, President and CEO of Judson Investment Company. 'As minority-owned firms, Judson and Capri understand that Metropolis sits in the middle of an underserved area in the early stages of a rebirth. It will attract middle- and upper-income residents that will integrate with existing low-income area residents, who have been denied access to grocery stores and other simple amenities that people want in their neighborhoods.'
The site is bordered by Pershing Road (39th Street) to the North, 40th Street to the South, Chicago Rock Island Railroad Embankment to the West and State Street to the East.
The Metropolis will be an architecturally significant development planned to consist of approximately 1,000,000 square feet. In its first phase of 500,000 square feet, the project will include expansive green space surrounded by two six-story curvilinear buildings of steel and glass. Approximately 330,000 square feet of commercial retail area and 102 residential condominium units are planned in the initial phase at a cost of $155 million. Future phases are planned to include three towers dedicated to residential and hotel uses.
The visionary development will further the economic vitalization and transformation of Chicago's historic Bronzeville/Grand Boulevard community. Both interim construction and permanent employment will be generated for the community due to the substantial investment that the joint venture is making.
'Beyond economic development for the community, the ultimate design intent of Metropolis is to create a 'city center' for the near south side of Chicago,' said Quintin E. Primo III, Chairman & CEO of Capri. 'Importantly, the project addresses the chronic lack of commercial retail in the area and will offer market rate and affordable housing to the growing community. Twenty percent of the 102 condominiums will be reserved for low- and moderate-income buyers, earning no more than 80% of the area's median per capita income.
'This extraordinary investment in this particular place demonstrates confidence in Chicago's vision for the transformation of places once dominated by decaying public housing into new communities of hope,' said Jonathan F. Fanton, President of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, and a founder of The Partnership for New Communities, a group of Chicago business and civic leaders dedicated to community revitalization. Primo is a member of The Partnership Board.
'Our mission is not about fixing up a block or two, not about a few high-profile social programs, not about a temporary fix,' Fanton said. 'Transformation means deep, widespread, and permanent change. So, we applaud Quintin and Capri Capital Partners for looking beyond the surface... for listening to what the data were actually saying about the marketplace... for imagining what could be... and for demonstrating the leadership to make it happen.'
'The architectural vision for Metropolis is an abstract expression of Bronzeville's unique cultural history,' said Ross Wimer, Design Partner at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP ('SOM'). 'The building façades recall the repeated musical patterns of blues and jazz and the residential unit layouts invoke harmonious rhythms and the ideals of freedom and flexibility.
'A public venue celebrating African American history and culture will be located in the central, curvilinear public park,' added Wimer. 'It will encourage learning, activity and dialogue between the retail spaces and the public. At the corner of State and Pershing, the proposed digital clock tower announces both the new landmark development and the renaissance of the historic Bronzeville/Grand Boulevard neighborhood.
CB Richard Ellis is the exclusive leasing agent for Metropolis.
'We're extremely encouraged by the anticipated transformation of this market,' said Todd Caruso, Regional Head of Retail for CB Richard Ellis. 'The Metropolis is well-positioned between the Roosevelt Road retail corridor north and new retail development occurring on 87th Street south. The lack of retail supply in the general area should allow the project to readily draw shoppers from the surrounding 15 neighborhood communities.'
'This project is important to the south side, and the numbers speak for themselves,' said Primo. 'According to MetroEdge, approximately $671 million of the total $909 million in mid-south consumer expenditures represent 'retail leakage,' or dollars spent by residents outside their community.'
'The project is historically significant in so many ways,' said Hugh Williams, President and CEO of Judson Investment Company. 'As minority-owned firms, Judson and Capri understand that Metropolis sits in the middle of an underserved area in the early stages of a rebirth. It will attract middle- and upper-income residents that will integrate with existing low-income area residents, who have been denied access to grocery stores and other simple amenities that people want in their neighborhoods.'
The site is bordered by Pershing Road (39th Street) to the North, 40th Street to the South, Chicago Rock Island Railroad Embankment to the West and State Street to the East.
6:49 AM - June 5, 2007 - {0} -
View more entries tagged with: Bronzeville, Chicago Retail
So why should Chicago want to host the 2016 Olympic Games? There are countless reasons, but let’s start with the top 16…
(The following is from www.Chicago2016.org)
Top 16 reasons why hosting the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games would be a great opportunity for Chicago:
1) Unite the world in our city for a celebration of sport With its pageantry, sport and celebration on a global scale, this will be the biggest event in our city in our lifetime. This is our generation’s World’s Columbian Exposition or 1933 World’s Fair. 2) Celebrate our love of sport There is no question that Chicagoans are passionate about sport. This event will bring the best in sport to our city. Over 200 countries will be sending their best athletes into our city to perform at the highest levels of competition in our stadiums and in our parks. 3) Share Chicago with the world and raise our international reputation We will have the opportunity to share Chicago and what makes our hometown so special with the worlds’ athletes, guests and over 3.6 billion people who will see our City through the global television broadcast. Newspapers, magazines and television from around the world will create profiles of this beautiful Olympic city. This is our chance to inspire the world - to Stir the Soul™ of the world! 4) Create a global sporting legacy for Chicago Already a professional sport powerhouse, Chicago will become known as one of the world centers of all sport. New venues will allow us to experience sports, like track and field, swimming and rowing among many others, before and after the games through participation and by hosting events. 5) Act as catalyst for widespread urban revitalization Situating the temporary stadium Washington Park will help revitalize a beautiful part of the City. The Athletes’ Village will create mixed-use community right on the lake front, again acting as a central point for improvement of an entire neighborhood on the South Side. It will also act as a magnet for attracting more people to live in the Loop. 6) Generate economic benefits before the Games The construction of new venues and infrastructure improvements means new jobs. Being an Olympic host city will attract domestic and international companies to open offices or even possibly move their headquarters here. This wave of new businesses means economic development and new jobs. 7) Generate economic benefits during the games Over six million incremental tourists from around the world staying in our hotels, eating in our restaurants, taking rides in our cabs. Employers in the service industry will need to hire additional help to service the guests thereby creating new jobs. 8) Generate economic benefits after the Games Tourists will come to our Olympic City in increasing numbers years after the Games to remember and relive the 2016 spectacle, see the venues, and experience Chicago firsthand. 9) Accelerate planned infrastructure improvements Hosting the Games will fast track key capital projects, especially transportation related initiatives, to coincide with the Olympiad. 10) Experience world-class athletics and the values of Olympic sport – in our own backyard This is our chance to see the best athletes in the world compete in our parks and stadiums, demonstrating not only the most amazing level of competition the world has to offer, but also the values that make the Olympic movement singular – fair play, friendship, hope, inspiration, and joy in effort. 11) Capitalize on the educational benefits Our children will be exposed to the athletes and cultures of the world. This global Olympic Movement is a great educational tool for geography, culture, history etc. The City and Chicago 2016 will create many programs focused on our youth that will enrich our children and broaden their understanding of sport and the world. 12) Enjoy great cultural events Beyond sport, this event will bring world class singers, actors, dance, theatre, etc. into our city. The Games will be a cultural celebration with events throughout the city - many of them free to the public. 13) Get motivated to get in shape The Games will be inspiration for Chicagoans to live healthier lives by embracing fitness and wellness activities. 14) Appreciate Chicago’s distinctiveness even more You will learn surprising and amazing things about Chicago and Chicagoans you never knew before that will make you even prouder that you live here. 15) Meet new extraordinary people By hosting the Games, we will attract broad range of domestic and international visitors to the Windy City who we can learn from and share experiences. Chicago will become the World’s second home. 16) Have fun and show your pride This will be a great time, the streets will be alive, and our people will be a big part of the experience. This will be an incredible source of pride for everyone who lives here. And, more fun than you can imagine!
8:04 PM - April 12, 2007 - {0} -
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Chicago Green Festival
April 21-22, 2007
McCormick Place/Lakeside
2301 S. Lake Shore Drive in Chicago – (Third level, Hall D1)
Celebrate Earth Day Weekend with us at the first annual Chicago Green Festival – where there is something for everyone!
Top Ten Reasons to Go to Green Festival:
- Discover how Chicago is becoming a national leader in city greening at the City Of Chicago Pavilion.
- Laugh and play with your family in the Organic Valley Kids’ Zone.
- Visit the Kitchen Table to learn how your voice can be heard; and see how others have found their voices at the Green Film Festival.
- Move your body in ways you’ve never imagined in the Movement Room.
- Get inspired by renowned speakers offering a variety of practical solutions to today’s most crucial issues.
- Realize that, “Gee, organic food really does taste better,” at the FamilyFarmed.org Farmers Market.
- Enjoy guilt-free shopping, and maybe even find some unique Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and graduation gifts.
- Snack on free fair trade coffee and chocolate in the Fair Trade Pavilion, and feel good about the world even after the buzz wears off.
- Make your home a haven that is not only beautiful but also healthy and kind to the earth.
- Find your green dream career, and network with visionary business leaders.
Speakers include . . .
Amy Goodman – Jim Hightower - Greg Palast - Dennis Kucinich – Mayor Richard M. Daley (invited) – Frances Moore Lappé –Howard Lyman – Commissioner Sadhu Johnston (invited) - Bill McKibben – Riane Eisler – Senator Jacqueline Y. Collins- David Korten - Kevin Danaher - Alisa Gravitz - John Perkins - Van Jones - Paul Stamets – Debra Shore and 100 other local and national visionary leaders
Check out hands-on workshops in the areas of . . .
Green Careers - Community and Social Investing - Greening Your Home & Office - Responsible Travel - Green Technology and Building
And don't miss these additional attractions . . .
Music Stage with local talent - Firelight Rising, The Giving Tree Band, Cynthia Lin, Tiger Moon and more • Organic Beer and Wine Garden • Organic Dining • SustainLane E-Lounge • Green Festival Bookstore • Power Foods Pavilion • Community Action Area
All at a nearly zero waste event!
Your all-inclusive admission is just $10.00 per day!
Half price for students with ID/seniors/bike riders/those using public transportation!
SAVE with our Special Weekend Membership FastPass for just $19 – good for 2 adults and all children under 18 – for the entire Weekend! You’ll also receive a free organic cotton T-shirt!
Sign up as a Green Fest Volunteer and get in FREE!
Register at www.greenfestivals.org
Read more online!
9:02 AM - March 9, 2007 - {0} -
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Sunday, March 4th, is Chicago's 170th birthday!
On Saturday, March 3rd, celebrate from 10am-2pm at the Chicago History Museum. Enjoy performances by the Chicago Children's chois and the Walter Payton Jazz Orchestra. Meet historial figure Jean Baptiste Pointe DuSable. make party hats and eat birthday cake. Chelebrate Chicago's history by exploring all of the museum's new exhibits. FREE!
Click for more info or to learn about the Chicago History Museum
11:01 AM - March 2, 2007 - {0} -
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The Metropolis is a $155 million mixed-use project which will include 330,000 square feet of retail and two six story buildings totaling 102 residential condos. Quintin E. Primo III, Chairman and CEO of the development group Capri Capital Partners LLC has said that the design intent is to create a city center for the Near South Side. The Project is a joint venture with Judson Investment Co. Both companies are based in Chicago.
The project, which ultimately could total 1 million square feet, has been designed by Ross Wimer, a partner at Skidmore Owings & Merrill. The retail portion of the site will be bordered by Pershing Road, 40th Street, a Chicago Rock Island Railroad embankment and State Street. The project, expected to take two years to complete, is scheduled to start in early 2008.
5:33 PM - February 21, 2007 - {0} -
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Chicagoans who buy new housing in low-income areas prefer homes that are integrated into the neighborhood, not isolated from it, says a report by University of Illinois at Chicago researchers in the Journal of the American Planning Association.
This study found that home buyers are willing to spend considerably more (33-50%) for homes in single-family or small multi-family buildings with entrances that face the street and parking that faces the alley. Buyers also favor relatively short setbacks from the street and construction materials similar to those used in neighboring buildings.
The researchers believe that the value differential implies that buyers of these homes recognize the connections of this housing to the neighborhoods.
The study evaluated three different housing designs (Infill, Traditional Neighborhood Development and Enclave) while looking at 6 different Chicago neighborhoods, including Ukrainian Village and Bronzeville.
Infill is housing build on various lots by different developers. These homes visually compliment the surrounding housing. Infil is common in neighborhoods where lots become available at different times, often because of the demolotion of deteriorated buildings. Traditional neighborhood development is large planned development that maintains the neighborhood's street grid. Enclave are self contained complexes, often gated and very separated from its surroundings.
This study is an affirmation to the urbanists who believe that the best way to revitalize urban neighborhoods is to respect and augment rather than attempt to transform them into another type of neighborhood entirely.
8:24 PM - February 7, 2007 - {0} -
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.jpg) According to the newstoday, Daley wants to see growth south of McCormick Place whether we win the Olympic bid or not. The proposed development will be built -- on air rights over a truck staging area for McCormick Place. You know, the vacant ugly expanse just south of the Stevenson as you head south on Lake Shore Drive.
The talks include development of 37 acres to include 5,000 new homes, market rate and affordable housing, and up to 1,000 new hotel rooms. A pair of pedestrian bridges over Lake Shore Drive. We have been waiting for this!
As you can kind of see in the bottom left corner of this photo, there are plans for a new harbor too.
9:20 AM - January 24, 2007 - {0} -
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Bears Fever is an amazing illness(?). Look around and you will see people who don't even know who Devin Hester is, mumbling Go Bears to strangers. Twenty one years ago was no different. On January 23, 1986 Sir George Solti and his accomplices (The CSO and CSO Chorus) shocked patrons (still reveling in a post Tchaikovsky-List concert glow) by donning Bears sweatshirts and as the maestro lifted his baton, breaking into music sweet to all Chicagoans.
CSO perform Bear Down Chicago Bears-- FREE Download
Chicago Symphony Orchestra and ChorusSir Georg Solti conductorMargaret Hillis chorus directorJanuary 23, 1986 – recorded live in Orchestra Hall by 98.7 WFMT
“Bear Down, Chicago Bears” by Jerry DownsLyricsBear down, Chicago Bears,Make every play clear the way to victory!Bear down, Chicago Bears,Put up a fight with a might so fearlessly.We’ll never forget the way you thrilled the nationWith your “T” formation.Bear down, Chicago Bears,And let ’em know why you’re wearing the crown.You’re the pride and joy of Illinois,Chicago Bears, bear down! ©Chicago Bears©1998 Chicago Symphony Orchestra
6:24 PM - January 22, 2007 - {0} -
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Andersonville was recently named as one of the top ten eco friendly neighborhoods in the country by Natural Home Magazine. They picked urban neighborhoods that encourage the healthy, eco-conscious good life. They chose neighborhoods that boast community involvement; shopping, libraries and schools within a walkable area; public transportation; and locally owned businesses.
Some of the top ten neighborhoods are more affordable than others, but most have mixed-income housing and relatively diverse populations. Of course all had numerous parks, green spaces and neighborhood gathering spaces. Many also have farmer’s markets and community gardens.
Their description of Andersonville:
ANDERSONVILLE NEIGHBORHOOD
Located near Lake Michigan, Andersonville has strong Swedish roots, a unique commercial district, and well-preserved vintage walk-up flats and apartments.
Curb appeal:
- Revival of Clark Street’s locally owned cafés, antique shops, galleries, experimental theaters, bookstores and other shops
- Mix of people and cultures: many female business owners, Middle Eastern restaurants, thriving Hispanic commercial area
- Two community gardens; a dozen nearby parks
- Cheap rent compared with other area neighborhoods
It is nice to see a Chicago neighborhood recognized!
2:47 PM - January 6, 2007 - {0} -
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Wow, holidays are barely over and things are picking up. Looks like many of the buyers who put their home search on hold late last fall and early winter are out looking again. Look at available listings and you will see that sellers are quickly responding and putting their homes on/back on the market earlier than they might have planned. Listening to buyers and sellers, it seems many sellers are trying to beat the traditional Spring flood of new listings and buyers are out trying to jump on the new listings before everyone else heads out looking.
9:59 PM - January 4, 2007 - {0} -
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In 2006, the Illinois General Assembly passed a new law which requires the placement of Carbon Monoxide Detectors in all residences. The law mandates that every dwelling unit in Illinois must be equipped with at least one carbon monoxide alarm within 15 feet of every room used for sleeping purposes. The law became effective January 1, 2007.
You can find detectors at most stores with a home improvement center (including Target, Lowes, Home Depot, etc.) They are as easy to install as a smoke detector.
4:52 PM - January 3, 2007 - {0} -
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Buying a condo is pretty much the only way for first time buyers to get into the real estate market in Chicago. Owning a condo is different than owning a single family home.
The biggest advantage to buying a condo is the price. No matter which neighborhood you search in the city, a two bedroom condo will almost always be priced lower than a two bedroom house. Of course there are some amazing high end condos that are exceptions to this rule.
Because of land prices, it makes more sense for developers to build several condos in the space traditionally occupied by one house. Look around, you can find available condos pretty much anywhere in the city you would like to live. What's your desire? Downtown High Rise, Old Town 4 flat, East Villiage Vintage Coach House?
Do you have time or desire to do yardwork? If so, a condo is not for you. With rarely more than a small balcony, a broom is about the only tool you will need to maintain your "outdoor" space. Any landscaped area is known as common area and the homeowners’ association has responsiblity to maintain it.
When buying your first home, a condo makes sense for most buyers, many to choose from, less expensive, less home main
12:21 PM - January 2, 2007 - {0} -
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