Design and construction of an outdoor training village for Chicago Police and Fire Departments on a 12.4 acres site. Facility includes 5 full scale training structures including two tactical building areas comprised of two and three flat residential houses and a multi-story mixed use structure, two live-fire training structures comprised of one multi-story apartment tower and one multi-story mixed use structure. The fifth building area is the Urban Search and Rescue structure containing confined space training elements, a leaky-pipe training element, temporary shoring/brace elements, and a liquid propane burn pit for hazmat training. The facility also includes 160,000 SF concrete paved tactical driver training course. Structures were designed and permitted as un-occupied training structures with minimal mechanical, electrical, and plumbing utilities throughout the buildings. Building construction included cold-formed metal framing, plywood, concrete, and masonry materials.

This is a one-of-a-kind training campus that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Design creative process included a series of meetings with training personnel for detailed insight on how training programs and exercises were to perform to ensure project design met and exceeded these minimum requirements. One of the specific project challenges were the “Live Fire” training structures in which 38 design burn areas were constructed throughout the respective training structures. A high-temperature lining system was procured and installed for protection of the structures while allowing for repeated burns. Other key design considerations and implementations included: high-temperature rated paint, specific product selections on door hardware to eliminate components not suitable for high-temps, and protection for lead joint drain piping.

With a high volume of concrete and masonry installed for the project quality and long-term durability for the high abuse training environments were top of mind for the construction team. As a result, the construction team invested in third party testing for quality inspections as well as remote sensor monitoring for concrete pours to ensure proper strength was achieved. Certain design/training elements such as the high-temperature lining systems installed for the live-fire burn buildings as well as the liquid propane hazmat training equipment required engagement with specialty trade partners who designed, supplied, and installed these unique training systems.

Safety was a top priority throughout the Chicago Joint Public Safety Outdoor Scenario Village (Police & Fire Phase II) project. We ensured the safety of tradespeople, onsite first responders, and the surrounding community by strictly adhering to comprehensive safety protocols and maintaining a proactive approach to hazard prevention. Our team closely coordinated with first responders to ensure safe operations during live-fire and tactical training exercises. With an outstanding EMR rating of 0.47, we are committed to upholding a strong safety culture, minimizing risk, and ensuring the well-being of all personnel involved in the project.

This project brought in local, minority, and female workers for the project to help aide in the economic growth of the nearby community. Local material vendors were utilized for various parts of the project as well.

The Chicago Joint Public Safety Outdoor Scenario Village (Police & Fire Phase II) project advanced community inclusivity by creating opportunities for underrepresented groups. In collaboration with the Alderman and local organizations, the project prioritized hiring and training individuals from diverse backgrounds, addressing systemic barriers to participation and promoting equity.

The project enhanced the quality of life in the disadvantaged area by providing essential services, creating sustainable jobs, and investing in local infrastructure. Not to mention, prioritizing the relationship between first responders and police force with civilians – bringing a greater understanding of how everyone has the same goal – to keep our neighborhood safe.

Ultimately, the project delivered immediate economic benefits while establishing a foundation for long-term growth, resilience, and equity, leaving a lasting positive impact on the community.

The Chicago Joint Public Safety Outdoor Scenario Village (Police & Fire Phase II) project positively impacts the community by providing advanced training facilities that enhance the readiness of Chicago’s first responders, directly contributing to public safety. The project team demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility by engaging local communities and providing opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses. Employment was prioritized for diverse workers, ensuring the project benefited a wide range of groups. Additionally, the facility’s design was inclusive, with accessible training structures for all public safety teams. Overall, the project promoted workforce diversity while enhancing critical training capabilities for Chicago’s police and fire departments.

XTchange Chicago is a 28,000-square-foot facility located in the heart of Greater Grand Crossing. This building has long been tied to the economic vibrancy of the community. Originally an AT&T warehouse that housed transport vehicles to support the area’s once-thriving industrial sector, it later became a satellite food wholesale and retail site, employing just seven people—reflecting the economic decline and disruption the neighborhood has faced. Now, Xchange Chicago is transforming this space into a hub for innovation, driving a new economic corridor focused on commercial tech opportunities. This extensive rehabilitation project has turned the building into a forward-looking workspace, equipping the community with access to the global digital economy and pathways to upward mobility. Designed with a modern, futuristic aesthetic, the project was completed safely, on time, and within budget—catalyzing revitalization and a beacon of opportunity for the Greater Grand Crossing community.

The bright orange façade of the Xchange Chicago building has become a symbol of optimism and transformation in the community. Its futuristic design not only inspires confidence but also fosters a strong sense of belonging, reinforcing the organization’s mission to drive workforce development and career readiness.

The project needed creativity by all parties to achieve the end goals. A design build approach with architecture, structural, MEP and Civil design was used to keep budget and develop the program to meet all shareholder’s goals. This was a seamless process with the Comer Foundation, Norcon, and John Ronan Architects.

No lost time accidents.

In its inaugural year—while the building’s rehabilitation was still underway—Xchange Chicago made significant strides in advancing economic mobility. The organization secured partnerships with four corporate employers and 12 community organizations providing wraparound support, from housing assistance to financial literacy. Additionally, Xchange trained and placed 42 individuals into IT careers, with an average starting salary of $50,000.
Building on this momentum, Xchange Chicago is set to more than double its impact in the coming year. The space has also attracted Fortune 500 companies, bringing business leaders into a neighborhood they may not have previously engaged with. Xchange Chicago is not just a building—it is a catalyst for meaningful connections, groundbreaking conversations, and transformative career pathways that were once out of reach for this community.
Xchange Chicago is redefining economic development for a historically marginalized and overlooked community. This project exemplifies equity in action, demonstrating that world-class infrastructure and economic opportunity belong not only in downtown districts but also in the heart of residential neighborhoods on the South Side. By strategically positioning Xchange Chicago in a predominantly residential area, the project challenges the notion that economic hubs must be centralized, proving those local economies—where people live and work—are just as valuable and deserving of investment.

The success of the Xchange Chicago building—its timely completion, cleanliness, safety, and overall development—is a direct result of intentional community engagement and unwavering commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. The project team ensured that the community was not just informed but actively involved, creating an impact that extended far beyond construction.

From project financing to construction, diversity and equity were embedded in every phase—not as a requirement to check a box, but as a core principle. The general contractor team fully embraced the ownership’s mission, ensuring that small businesses and local community members were recruited, bid for contracts, and ultimately worked on the project. These individuals not only contributed to the building’s development but also became ambassadors for its vision, sharing opportunities with their families and neighbors. This grassroots engagement directly supported the workforce development programming, reinforcing a place-based approach to hiring, training, and placing local talent into tech jobs.

(See above)
The strength of this community partnership was especially evident when the core and shell completion coincided with a Thanksgiving turkey giveaway hosted at Xchange Chicago. This event symbolized not just the completion of a building but the creation of a space built with and for the community—one that stands as a model for inclusive, community-driven development.

The Chicago Jesuit Academy Renovation and Expansion project is a 50,000-square-foot addition that enables the school to welcome girls to attend the formerly all-boys academy. Built by Walsh Construction and designed by SCB, the addition complements the existing historic structure and is connected through a new double-height, steel-framed, glass entrance and lobby. Inside, 16 new classrooms surround a support core of smaller rooms for one-on-one instruction and office space for social workers. Spaces for co-curricular activities, including a robotics lab, art studio, and a large multi-purpose room, allow for experiential learning opportunities. Offices for the school’s college persistence program are co-located with a new alumni lounge. A new suite for the school’s principal and staff leadership is located on the ground floor. The development and construction teams committed to putting safety first and foremost resulting in zero injuries during the construction of the new expansion.

SCB was very intentional about the design of the CJA; with a long history of working with the school and their dedicated staff, the design team knew the strength of the school’s bond to the community it serves. This space needed to be a backdrop for that community, authentically representing the legacy of the institution in the neighborhood while also looking forward to its continued impact. The SCB team met with parents of current and prospective students and workshopped how the spaces should feel, what colors and textures should be celebrated, and, equally important, what should be avoided. SCB presented the parent group with the principles of trauma-informed design and facilitated an open discussion on how these could be integrated in a meaningful way.

The outcome of this process allowed the design team to create an environment that holistically supports student success. Large windows in all classrooms and a series of skylights and floor openings infuse the learning spaces and core of the building with daylight, helping to connect students to the natural world around them.

Mediating between the existing 1900’s building and the addition is a new main entrance and lobby, a double-height space that serves as a portal between the neighborhood and the secure campus within. The architectural expression of the new addition is composed of brick and stone, referencing the materiality of the school’s existing historic structure. A rhythm of strong vertical brick piers gives the building a feeling of solidity and permanence, reflecting CJA’s role as an institutional anchor in the community.

Seeking to create softer and more nurturing educational spaces, nature-inspired finishes such as stone and wood, and cool, calming colors such as greens and blues are used throughout. Commissioned and student art are prominently featured in the building, celebrating the school’s students and mission while creating a positive environment for learning.

Walsh Construction has strong foundational quality control values that were represented at the Chicago Jesuit Academy Renovation and Expansion project throughout the construction process. Walsh is committed to delivering the highest standard of work and takes pride in quality work. Dan Walsh of Walsh Construction was quoted, “Quality is the only legacy we leave behind to our customers.” Walsh utilized its quality program centered around a Three Phases of Control Plan to implement the work, communicate the plan and work the plan. Walsh dedicates themselves to embracing a culture of open communication and promoting quality in all areas of work starting with all individuals on the jobsite on day one. Crews also participated in Walsh’s Quality Week, a time for the project teams to further train, educate, celebrate and reinforce quality culture. Moreover, this job had a state-of-the-art energy efficient mechanical system which we began designing and coordinating using the Building Information Modeling (BIM) Process as soon as the award was made. This was critical in keeping the overall open feel to the building design and integrating the old building to the new building. While constructing the new campus addition, the current school was in session. This meant keeping disruptions to a minimum and organizing potentially distracting activities outside of school hours. This became particularly difficult when we connected to the existing building and renovated some of the existing building facilities. As a result, the project teams built temporary soundproof walls on the inside of the existing building to eliminate dust and mitigate the noise level. Additionally, the teams did their noisier work during off school hours while the school was in summer session.

Safety at Chicago Jesuit Academy was led by Walsh Construction’s senior safety leadership team. Through Walsh’s Core Safety Program, the leadership teams’ dedication to achieving safety excellence relies on their Actively Caring Culture, encouraging the workforce to speak up about safety items. From day one, Walsh implements training and planning designed to equip their workforce with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and uphold safety systems and processes while being able to identify potential hazards and risks on the job site. Each morning, the workforce teams participated in a stretch and flex where safety personnel and the superintendents could collectively review the day’s scheduled activities while preparing their bodies for the day ahead. This activity encouraged the staff members to get to know the field team while evaluating their daily agenda together. In addition to daily activities, the project also participated in “Safety Week,” which further emphasized the ultimate goal of No One Gets Hurt and engaged our work forces, proactively discussed safety as a core value, demonstrated best practices from across the industry, while focusing on the wellbeing and mental health of our team members. Through all these initiatives and precautions taken, Walsh self-performed over 20,000-man workhours with zero injuries.

The campus addition reinforces CJA’s position as an educational anchor in the community. By increasing the school’s capacity to 400 students, including their ability to enroll girls, the project expands on the foundational culture of their program, ensuring a lasting, positive impact on future generations. The academy draws its students from families impacted by historic disinvestment in the surrounding neighborhoods and offers students free tuition. In addition to involving the community in the design process, the construction team also participated in efforts to promote inclusion and community involvement and brought on three pre-apprentices through the Walsh Pre-Apprenticeship Program that were local to the area and Chicago Jesuit Academy graduates. Walsh also hired local Section 3 construction workers from the Austin area to work on the Walsh team full-time as union workers. It was very crucial to Chicago Jesuit Academy that the students saw a diverse workforce building this important project. Walsh hired 30% minority-owned businesses and also hired 6% women-owned business.

The Chicago Jesuit Academy Expansion and Renovation project was able to expand and modernize the campus to extend educational opportunities for female students. Each firm involved worked together to deliver the expansion and focus on their core mission for the Chicago Jesuit Academy and how to give all the students the gift of learning and the best environment to learn in.

The Chicago Jesuit Academy does not charge tuition for students and is for students and families from these resilient communities that have been impacted by historical disinvestment. With the new expansions added, including alumni support and counseling offices, these additions will help further support students and families beyond graduation by providing them with assistance when transitioning into the next chapters of their lives. Additionally, the new classrooms spaces are designed to enhance new educational learning opportunities for students by creating spaces for special education sessions and social workers. Along with additions dedicated to after-school activities and academic clubs including a robotics lab, art studio and multi-purpose room, these allow the students to improve their social skills and promote social and cognitive development while improving their academic performance and finding a hobby they enjoy.

The project team participated in various efforts to encourage community and inclusion initiatives to have a strong impact on the surrounding neighborhoods. The Walsh Pre-Apprenticeship Program allowed the project team to bring three pre-apprentices to the jobsite that were local to the area and graduates from the Chicago Jesuit Academy. Through the Pre-Apprenticeship Program, these individuals were given the opportunity to gain industry-based exposure and preparation to start a career in the construction trades. This program allowed these workers to partner with subcontractors on the site to provide exposure to the construction trades with the goal of sponsoring successful pre-apprentices into a trade union. The individuals observed the various construction activities on site to further explore their job interests. In addition, Walsh hired Section 3 construction workers who were also local to the Austin neighborhood to work on the Walsh project team as full-time union workers. Walsh also hired 30% of minority-owned businesses, which included 10% that were African American-owned, and collaborated with 6% women-owned businesses. Walsh aimed to support the Chicago Jesuit Academy’s request by ensuring that students would encounter a diverse workforce as they passed by the project each day into the school.

The Northwestern Medicine Old Irving Park Outpatient Center is a transformative addition to Chicago’s northwest side, seamlessly embedding care into the neighborhoods where people live and work. Located at 4445 W. Irving Park Road, the 160,000-square-foot, four-story building expands Northwestern Medicine’s reach beyond downtown, bringing essential healthcare closer to the community. Positioned on a tight urban site, it was sunk two levels to minimize its visual impact while preserving the pedestrian experience. Its terracotta, metal, and stone façade integrates with the residential fabric, ensuring a natural fit. Sustainability was a priority, with LEED Gold certification, green roofs, bird-friendly glass, and energy-efficient systems. Inside, modular prefabrication streamlined construction, with over 60 exam room pods built off-site. Thoughtful daylighting, intuitive wayfinding, and a carved-out public plaza create a welcoming, accessible, and lasting community resource.

From the beginning, the project was designed to integrate seamlessly into its urban setting. The site, once home to an abandoned funeral home, a restaurant and a parking lot, presented challenges that required both architectural creativity and community engagement. Given its tight footprint, the design team strategically balanced scale, functionality and neighborhood concerns. Rather than overwhelming the streetscape with height, the building was sunk two levels below ground to accommodate parking, preserving the pedestrian experience at street level. The architectural language carefully aligns with the surrounding residential fabric, with key datums in the façade that visually connect it to adjacent buildings. Every side of the structure was treated with equal design attention, even the alley-facing façade, which features terracotta — an uncommon yet thoughtful detail that enhances the overall streetscape.

The patient experience was a central driver of the design. Public spaces were intentionally positioned to face north, allowing for soft, indirect natural light to filter through waiting areas. Inside, a modular layout helps maintain clarity and ease of navigation, while a series of portal-like entries subtly guide movement, preventing the building from feeling overwhelming despite its size. The third floor, dedicated to clinical space, was arranged to ensure connectivity between suites while maintaining strong architectural daylight indicators to help with wayfinding. These thoughtful elements have contributed to overwhelmingly positive feedback from both patients and staff.

Beyond its role as a healthcare hub, the building also sets a new standard in sustainable design. Achieving LEED Gold certification, the building incorporates three green roofs, low-emitting materials and bird-friendly glass, a feature informed by community input given the area’s significance as a major migration corridor. Eight electric vehicle charging stations support greener transportation options, while strategic shading and fritted glass minimize heat gain and reduce energy consumption. Every detail, from the use of durable, locally sourced materials to thoughtful light pollution reduction, underscores Northwestern Medicine’s commitment to sustainability.

The project’s execution relied on innovative construction techniques, particularly in the use of modular prefabrication. Over 60 exam room pods were built off-site, ensuring higher quality control while reducing on-site disruption. This assembly-line approach allowed for greater efficiency, minimizing waste, and improving safety for construction teams. Once completed, the pods were transported to the site, lifted by crane into the structure, and seamlessly integrated. During the BIM process, the pathways for the exam room pods were modeled to ensure a clear runway through the building while stick-built construction was ongoing all around. This cutting-edge construction strategy not only streamlined the build process but also enhanced the long-term adaptability of the facility, ensuring it can evolve with future medical advancements.

While Northwestern Medicine’s primary goal was to expand healthcare access, the project also had to address the concerns of the surrounding community. Traffic, density and integration were all key points of discussion, and the project team worked closely with local stakeholders, providing weekly updates through the alderman’s office and establishing a hotline for resident concerns. The result is a building that doesn’t just exist within Old Irving Park — it actively contributes to its vibrancy. The northeast corner of the site, for example, was intentionally carved out to create a small but impactful public plaza, a rare feature for medical buildings. This decision, though counterintuitive to maximizing square footage, reflects a larger commitment to placemaking — turning the facility into a welcoming presence rather than just another institutional structure.

Project challenges included the procurement of numerous overseas materials, Chicagoland cement & stone material shortages, the COVID pandemic, and much more. By identifying and prioritizing long lead items (upwards of 40+ weeks), the team was able to ensure materials arrived before needed onsite. One of the most prominent project challenges turned out to be one of its greatest successes. With a high degree of coordination, the collective team was able to successfully construct a sophisticated exterior envelope that included over seven different exterior systems and unique interfaces. New to the City of Chicago Code, the project passed a whole building air test (WBAT) confirming the team’s success and a high degree of quality – we almost doubled the code requirement for air leakage.

Before the first shovel went into the ground, the construction team emphasized and prioritized safety – for employees onsite as well as the surrounding neighborhood. By forecasting high risk activities up to 8 weeks in advance, the team was able to develop the proper sequencing and safety protocols with associated subcontractors to completely remove or minimize the risk. Numerous safety standdowns, activities during construction safety week, foremen engagements, and safety lunches, the team promoted and rewarded safety onsite. The 24 month long project was limited to a handful of minor recordable incidents and included hundreds of thousands of manhours.

Shaped by direct community input, this project balances scale, safety, and neighborhood integration. At residents’ request, a full floor was removed to better fit the streetscape, while a public plaza at the main entry provides seating for the busy Irving Park bus route.

To enhance safety, NM Medicine purchased the lot behind the dock, creating a buffer from adjacent homes. An automated lighting system improves visibility and activates the streetscape in the evening.

Key community-driven strategies:
-Height reduction to better align with the neighborhood.
-Public plaza at the entry to activate the street.
-Enhanced Lighting for improved safety and vibrancy. (An image of this would be beneficial.)
-Neighborhood buffer through the removal of a house behind the dock.
-Minority participation Goals met through key consultant partnerships (landscape, civil, etc.).
-Community engagement via Alderman-hosted meetings addressing design, traffic, security, and operations.

This project is a strong candidate for the CBC Community Impact Award because it demonstrates how thoughtful design, responsive planning, and active community engagement can positively shape a neighborhood. From the outset, the project team worked closely with residents and local leadership to ensure the development would not only fulfill its intended function but also enhance the surrounding community. At the request of residents, a full floor was removed from the original design to better align with the scale of Irving Park Avenue. Despite this reduction, a public plaza was incorporated at the main entry, providing a welcoming space and much-needed seating for those using the busy bus route.

Safety and neighborhood integration were also top priorities. An automated lighting system was implemented to improve visibility and create a livelier streetscape in the evening, making the area safer for pedestrians. Additionally, NM Medicine took proactive steps to minimize the project’s impact on neighboring homes by purchasing and removing a house behind the dock, creating a buffer and improving alley conditions. The project also met minority participation goals through strategic partnerships with consultants, reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity and equitable development.

Beyond the physical design, community involvement played a crucial role in shaping the project. Multiple meetings, hosted by the Alderman, allowed residents to voice their concerns and contribute to key decisions regarding building integration, traffic flow, security, and operational elements. By prioritizing community input and addressing neighborhood needs, this project sets a precedent for responsible, people-centered development. Its commitment to fostering a safer, more connected, and more inclusive environment makes it a deserving candidate for the CBC Community Impact Award.

The Joan and Paul Rubschlager Building completes a campus transformation on eleven acres in the nation’s largest urban medical district to a hub for leading edge patient care, research, and education. The overarching mission is a belief that cancer and neurosciences patients deserve services designed to meet their needs and complex problems, in a streamlined, supportive, and highly effective way. The vision was to create a facility that embodies this evolution of care and enables Rush to deliver a closely coordinated, unmatched outpatient experience, to more patients than ever before. The central goal was to improve health by applying the Rush values of innovation, collaboration, accountability, respect, and excellence.

SCB was very intentional about the design of the CJA; with a long history of working with the school and their dedicated staff, the design team knew the strength of the school’s bond to the community it serves. This space needed to be a backdrop for that community, authentically representing the legacy of the institution in the neighborhood while also looking forward to its continued impact. The SCB team met with parents of current and prospective students and workshopped how the spaces should feel, what colors and textures should be celebrated, and, equally important, what should be avoided. SCB presented the parent group with the principles of trauma-informed design and facilitated an open discussion on how these could be integrated in a meaningful way.

The outcome of this process allowed the design team to create an environment that holistically supports student success. Large windows in all classrooms and a series of skylights and floor openings infuse the learning spaces and core of the building with daylight, helping to connect students to the natural world around them.

Mediating between the existing 1900’s building and the addition is a new main entrance and lobby, a double-height space that serves as a portal between the neighborhood and the secure campus within. The architectural expression of the new addition is composed of brick and stone, referencing the materiality of the school’s existing historic structure. A rhythm of strong vertical brick piers gives the building a feeling of solidity and permanence, reflecting CJA’s role as an institutional anchor in the community.

Seeking to create softer and more nurturing educational spaces, nature-inspired finishes such as stone and wood, and cool, calming colors such as greens and blues are used throughout. Commissioned and student art are prominently featured in the building, celebrating the school’s students and mission while creating a positive environment for learning.

Tenets of Target Value Delivery principles were used and resulted in a streamlined construction solution that coexists with exemplary design. A rigorous set-based design process was used for selecting a high-quality exterior brick material, noted as reminiscent in a warm and familiar way, but pivotal in meeting our target cost. In addition, the local subcontracting community was more adept at managing the quality of brick, over terracotta or synthetic materials.

The design and construction team were in a co-located studio in addition to partnering with the owner’s equipment consultant, systems furniture designer and technology consultant. BIM models were hosted on the cloud, and we integrated all consultants’ work into the implementation documents for clarity of design and permitting. It was a collaborative process as we selected and onboarded trade partners for design assist including elevators, MEP trades, curtainwall, and framing. Our excavation contractor proposed a utility tunnel jack and bore system, a first for Chicago. The innovative boring pit and utility sleeve installation was half the cost of a traditional tunnel excavation solution, and it was safer than an open pit. We created as-built conditions for the Board of Underground and the final installation was implemented with pinpoint accuracy.

Lean construction evaluation was a project constant. During our mockup room evaluation, the builder was able to review constructability fabrication workflow. Concurrently, we conducted integrated team milestone and phase pull plan sessions that subdivided our workstream into Utility Tunnel, Shell & Core, Fit Out, and Site/Parking Garage. A regulatory workflow was also established due to the complexity of approvals needed by multiple agencies in Chicago.

Fifty-four bid packages and five permit packages were issued, plus two zoning and planned development applications. A micro-schedule was developed just for the planned development and zoning variance permitting. Difficult constraints were commonly overcome by our component teams holding a regular cadence of coordination workshops. Real time decisions were essential to our success. A project execution plan was developed that addressed document control (e- Builder) and quality (Finishline). In total, 35,170 were entered in Finishline, checked, and resolved.

Quality meetings were conducted every Thursday through the entire construction process. The design team employed an envelope consultant, and the owner held a contract with a testing and quality control consultant. Together they coordinated reviews of drawings, specifications mockup tests and field inspections. When significant issues arose, we would swarm the item with a SWIFT (Specific Work in Focused Time) team and develop a path to meet the owners project requirements.

Prior to construction Rush led the implementation of forming a Safety Charter and Committee. Safety talks were conducted routinely. The Safety Committee was another standing meeting that monitored jobsite safety, any field observations, and documented any incidents. Safety was a hot topic and safety moments were the first agenda item in the weekly OAC (Owner/Architect/Contractor) meetings. A total of 8,751 safety observations were recorded during this mega-project. The owner was instrumental in developing a root cause analysis process when a non-compliant observation was reported. Like a SWIFT team these observations were swarmed immediately, and work could be halted depending on severity of incident.

This project was early into construction at the outset of the pandemic in early 2020. While all other Rush projects were halted, this facility was designated a critical project by the Governor of Illinois and construction was permitted to continue. An additional level of precautions was implemented for the safety of our respective team members and Rush issued a zero-tolerance policy on PPE, social distancing, and temperature testing upon entry to the jobsite. Due to the severity and prior to immunizations, members of the construction team were removed from the project if not adhering to safety guidelines.

While the near westside community is diverse, Rush had never established mandatory MBE/WBE/DBE targets for all parties. Every goal exceeded target except for one while 930,949 total manhours were expended on constructing the project:
Community Business Spend 9.82% met versus 3% goal.
Minority Female 44.12% met versus 32% goal.
WBE 7% met versus 6% goal.
MBE 30% met versus 26% goal.
City Residency 36.5% met versus 50% goal.
Design Team 33.79% met versus 32% goal.

Specific IDE facility design accommodations included: All-Gender Multi-Stall Restrooms for equity, people with disabilities, and granting safe spaces for transgender and gender nonconforming patients, visitors, and staff; adult changing tables to allow caregivers and patients the opportunity for privacy and comfort; and pet relief areas for patients who have therapy and emotional support animals.

Social relevancy was accomplished through a granular ethnography study that included patient interviews, provider workshops, and human-centered research. The future state analysis was particularly insightful for the cancer service line patients and validated the tenets of collaboration, community, and connectivity and, in turn, the Pillars of Success for people, growth and reach, quality and safety.

Situated on an 11-acre site within the Illinois Medical District, this outpatient care facility for cancer and neurosciences is part of a fully integrated hospital campus. It connects to an existing patient tower with a pedestrian bridge that spans Ashland Avenue, a major north-south arterial road in the city. The site benefits from excellent transportation access, with two bus stops at West Harrison and South Ashland serving four bus lines, immediate proximity to the I-290 Expressway, and the CTA Blue Line, providing convenient connections to both the western suburbs and downtown Chicago.

Community engagement played a critical role in the planning and design process. Regular meetings with the surrounding community ensured that the new facility would enhance the area through aesthetic appeal and a welcoming environment. Attention was given to preserving views for residents of the Near West Side neighborhood and maintain Rush University Medical Center’s positive relationship with the community.

The campus-wide transportation improvements prioritize pedestrian-friendly walkways, dedicated lanes for Pace van drop-offs and pick-ups, and well-designed vehicular access, including turning lanes, exit ramps, and speed ramps leading into the parking garage. A bypass through the parking garage and a reconfiguration of traffic patterns were incorporated to reduce congestion and benefit the neighborhood. Additionally, a Type 2 ambulance accommodation was provided at the off-stage radiation oncology entrance.

Significant collaboration with the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) and the Bureau of Forestry ensured that the project addressed and incorporated community feedback. Enhancements to the pedestrian right-of-way, particularly along Harrison Street, were carefully designed to improve accessibility and connectivity. A large landscape buffer with existing and newly planted trees shields the residential area to the south from the parking lot, while the service court and loading area are located at the northeast corner of the site to minimize impact on nearby residents.

Seating areas on the south side of the building provide welcoming spaces for visitors and staff, while the overall design supports the critical work of the hospital building. This sensitivity to the site’s unique context — flanked by a small residential area to the south, the I-290 Expressway and CTA Blue Line to the north, and the Rush Medical Campus to the east — ensures that the facility integrates harmoniously with its surroundings while meeting the needs of patients and the community.

A welcoming space is synonymous with safety and security, which were key elements of the owners’ performance requirements in the final design, with accommodations including: all-gender multi-stall restrooms for equity, and people with disabilities, and granting safe spaces for transgender and gender nonconforming patients, visitors and staff; adult changing tables to allow caregivers and patients the opportunity for privacy and comfort; wheelchair nooks for easy access available on every floor; and pet relief areas for patients who have therapy and emotional support animals.

The outpatient care building was designed with an emphasis on universal and inclusive design principles, ensuring accessibility and equity for all users. A prominent architectural feature of the site is the pedestrian bridge, which further enhances connectivity.

The project included a complete redesign of the pedestrian right-of-way along Harrison Street, Ashland Avenue, and West Congress Parkway. This overhaul prioritized accessibility, featuring improved pedestrian crosswalks and street intersections. Site furnishings were thoughtfully selected with inclusivity in mind to accommodate a variety of users.

The project is a 36,000 sq ft building in the Austin neighborhood which prioritizes patient and employee well-being through natural light, bright materials and colors, and access to outdoor space. This new building embodies PCC’s holistic vision of care by providing areas for primary and specialty care, mental health services, nutritional assistance, fitness education, and financial resources. Additional features include a green rooftop walking track on the second floor and two rooftop decks on the third floor. It is a fully electric building, with no scope one greenhouse gas emissions. It utilizes sustainable features such as a geothermal heat pump, high performing insulated exterior wall panels and windows, and LED light fixtures.The building strengthens PCC’s commitment to the Austin neighborhood, complementing their existing Austin Family Health Center and the PCC Austin farm, which provide important resources and opportunities to the community.

The creative process for this project was rooted in stakeholder conversations about wellness, and sustainability. It is no secret that being in the healthcare field is extremely demanding and filled with fatigue, burnout, and stress. As a community health provider PCC was very focused on sustainability, both in terms of the energy consumption of the building, but also in terms of their operating practices, and the quality of the patient and staff experiences. That is why we held the design of not only the patient, but also the staff and administration spaces to such a high standard. As an organization, PCC was fully committed to this aim through the pursuit of Well Building certification, which not only requires a focus on the building’s healthful design features for staff and visitors, but also requires that PCC back up this commitment with sustainable and healthful operating policies throughout the lifetime of the building. Incorporating ample natural light into the spaces, providing multiple indoor areas to decompress and take a seat if needed, adding a green rooftop walking track and two separate rooftop gardens were just some of the ways that we worked hand in hand with the PCC administration team to let the staff know that they matter.

This project faced several challenges, including a lengthy acquisition process via Cook County Land Bank, project kickoff during COVID, alley vacation, securing New Markets Tax Credit funding, and meeting the requirements of funders and Green Globes and Well Building certification programs. Additional complications included working adjacent to a CTA substation, environmental concerns such as contaminated soil and underground storage tanks, and the loss of a key subcontractor late in the project.

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In underserved areas of Chicago, access to healthcare often necessitates driving or taking public transportation across the city. This can be a significant barrier to both families and individuals. By providing extensive primary and specialty care services directly in the communities that need it most, our client PCC seeks to eliminate the barriers to healthcare. This project takes PCC’s vision of community wellness one big step into the future by pairing health services with exercise, health education, and healthy eating resources on site. The health and wellness programming housed under this one big roof is designed to engage community members on a more routine basis to facilitate positive health outcomes and healthy lifestyles through increased patient contact and support.

With a new construction building filled with natural light, bright colors, sustainable features, and a large variety of services, the message to the community is clear: its health and well-being are important. Investments of this scale are rare, and rarer still are places where medical care blends with daily wellness programming for the public. This building is the culmination of collaboration between healthcare professionals, architects, engineers, consultants, contractors, trades, politicians, investors, community leaders and members, and many more groups of people. The dedication of so many people to the shared vision of creating a space for people to improve all facets of their health is an incredible accomplishment that we hope the community cherishes for many years to come.

PCC is a federally qualified health center serving the underserved where they live. This project realizes PCC’s vision of a full wellness campus for the Austin neighborhood housing not only primary care, specialty care, and behavioral health services, but houses a full suite of fitness and wellness programming responsive to the social determinants of health.

From its inception to its ongoing operations, this project focused on strategies of inclusion in community engagement, the development of a programmatic agenda, neighborhood workforce development during construction by Ujamaa, and continuing on into the day to day services now offered on site. Great care and effort were taken to make this a building not only a place made for the neighborhood, but a place made by the neighborhood.

This project involved the construction of a six-level, cast-in-place, post-tension parking structure, supported by two helical ramps on each end for seamless movement between levels. The garage accommodates approximately 1,700 vehicles, with an additional 650 vehicles in surface parking. Key features include two vehicular bridges, curbside expansion access, and modifications to the adjacent I-90 on-ramp, ensuring enhanced traffic flow and accessibility.

Designed with functionality and durability in mind, the structure integrates modern safety measures, including advanced lighting and wayfinding systems. The project’s impact extends beyond functionality, improving regional connectivity and traveler convenience while supporting economic growth in the surrounding community. The construction team maintained an exemplary safety record, upholding high safety standards.

The creative design process for this project revolved around blending functionality, structural efficiency, and user-centric features while addressing complex challenges. The six-level, cast-in-place, post-tension parking structure was designed to maximize capacity, with helical ramps strategically positioned at both ends to ensure seamless vehicle movement between levels. The incorporation of two vehicular bridges added significant complexity, requiring precise alignment to maintain traffic flow and integration with the adjacent I-90 on-ramp.

One of the major challenges was integrating curbside expansion access and I-90 modifications without disrupting existing traffic patterns. Innovative phasing and design adjustments minimized impacts, maintaining community connectivity throughout construction.

The final design balances form and function, offering a visually appealing structure that supports increased traffic demands while seamlessly integrating into the surrounding infrastructure. Aesthetic enhancements included clean architectural lines, enhanced lighting for safety, and wayfinding elements that improve the user experience.

The construction of the six-level, cast-in-place, post-tension parking structure at one of the world’s busiest airports presented significant challenges, requiring innovative solutions and seamless coordination to maintain the highest quality standards.

Constructing this facility within an active airport environment added a layer of complexity unmatched by typical projects. The team worked adjacent to operational terminals, balancing tight construction schedules with the need to minimize disruptions to daily airport operations.

Additionally, the installation of two helical ramps and coordination of surface parking for 650 vehicles demanded careful logistical planning and staging. These challenges were compounded by the airport’s security protocols, restricted access zones, and the need for real-time adjustments to accommodate the dynamic environment of an active international airport.

Daily coordination meetings ensured all stakeholders—from subcontractors to airport authorities—were aligned on priorities, schedules, and safety protocols. Rigorous quality control processes, including ongoing inspections and adherence to stringent airport standards, guaranteed the integrity of every structural, mechanical, and electrical component.

Through meticulous planning, expert collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to safety and quality, the team delivered a world-class parking facility that enhances accessibility and operational efficiency at one of the world’s busiest airports.

The project’s exceptional safety record stands as a testament to the team’s unwavering commitment to worker well-being, proactive safety measures, and operational excellence. With over 500,000 work hours completed, the project achieved an impressive Lost Time Incident Rate (LTIR) of 0.37, significantly outperforming the construction industry’s national average of 1.1, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, the project’s Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR) for 2024 was 2.4, which remains below the construction industry’s national average of 2.5.

These numbers demonstrate the team’s dedication to upholding the highest safety standards while delivering exceptional progress.

The project exemplifies a deep commitment to community engagement and workforce inclusion through impactful partnerships and programs, including the following:
• CPS Partnerships: Collaborated with over 200 Chicago Public Schools (CPS) to host annual events, including a skilled trades fair and three-day student experiences where 3,000+ CPS middle and high school students connect with local employers, trade unions, and workforce agencies.
• CPS Tours: Partnered with the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) to host tours for over 200 students at the CDA headquarters and the T5 Parking Garage project, providing exposure to aviation and construction career opportunities.
• Runway to Workforce Program: Bridging the gap between construction and future tradespeople, this program included visits to Hire360, HACIA U, Chicago Women in Trades, and Revolution Workshops. Students interacted directly with active T5 subcontractors, learning about hiring needs and industry insights.
• Holiday Coat Drive: Partnered with Revolution Workshop to sponsor a coat drive, raising $4,000 to provide 40+ heavy-duty coats for students, graduates, and local families. The event included a winter safety session for community members.
• Community Career Fairs: Engaged with citywide initiatives, including DPS and CDA events, to promote opportunities at the T5 Parking Garage. Hosted hands-on excavating demonstrations, business symposiums for minority- and women-owned businesses, and participated in a citywide college fair to introduce hundreds of CPS students to construction and aviation careers.
• Summer Internship Program: Provided hands-on experience for over 30 high school seniors and college undergraduates through partnerships with organizations like Youth Guidance, Urban Initiatives, Urban Alliance, Hope Chicago, and One Summer Chicago. Students rotated across departments and job sites, gaining skills in construction management, architecture, design, and professional development.

This project is a powerful example of how inclusive development can transform underserved communities. By prioritizing workforce development, community engagement, and economic inclusion, the project team delivered measurable and lasting benefits to the Chicagoland area.
• Empowering the Workforce of Tomorrow: Through initiatives like the Runway to Workforce Program and summer internships, we connected youth and emerging tradespeople to career opportunities in construction and aviation. Over 30 interns and hundreds of workforce program participants gained hands-on experience, mentorship, and direct access to hiring subcontractors.
• Supporting Local Students and Schools: Partnering with Chicago Public Schools (CPS), we engaged over 3,000 students annually in skilled trades fairs, three-day career events, and site tours, providing exposure to life-changing career opportunities. Students learned directly from local employers, trade unions, and workforce agencies, inspiring a new generation to pursue careers in construction.
• Investing in Local Businesses: Through business symposiums, we shared our expertise with local minority- and women-owned businesses, helping them grow capacity and expand opportunities.
• Prioritizing Community Well-being: Partnering with Revolution Workshop, we hosted a Holiday Coat Drive, raising $4,000 to provide essential winter gear to students, graduates, and community members. Safety education sessions during the event further demonstrated our commitment to community care.
• Hands-On Engagement: By organizing student tours and hands-on experiences like excavating demonstrations, we ensured the community gained direct access and exposure to construction careers, an area often unfamiliar to underserved groups.

This project goes beyond construction. It reflects a commitment to creating pathways for success, strengthening local businesses, and enriching the lives of underserved families and students. By fostering education, economic growth, and workforce readiness, we demonstrated the transformative power of community-focused development.

The project team has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility across multiple impactful initiatives:
• Promoting Workforce Diversity: Programs like the Runway to Workforce Program and partnerships with Hire360, HACIA U, Chicago Women in Trades, and Revolution Workshop provided underrepresented groups with direct pathways into the trades and construction industry.
• Engaging Underrepresented Communities: We reached 3,000 CPS students annually through skilled trades fairs, student tours, and interactive experiences, ensuring exposure to careers in construction and aviation—fields often unknown to underserved groups.
• Supporting Local Businesses: Business symposiums empowered minority- and women-owned businesses by providing tools, expertise, and opportunities to expand capacity and engage in transformative projects.
• Addressing Community Needs: Initiatives like the Holiday Coat Drive partnered with Revolution Workshop to directly support students, families, and recent graduates, emphasizing safety and inclusivity in community care.
• Creating Opportunities for the Future: Over 30 summer interns from underserved backgrounds participated in job shadowing, hands-on training, and soft skills development, fostering a diverse next generation of construction professionals.

By incorporating thoughtful outreach, strategic partnerships, and inclusive programming, this project exemplifies a model for breaking barriers and advancing equity within the workplace and community. Our work created tangible opportunities, addressed inequities, and inspired a more inclusive industry for the future.

Located in Chicago’s South Side Grand Crossing neighborhood, Art in Motion transforms a 120,000-square-foot industrial facility into a vibrant charter high school fostering creativity and innovation. The school offers programs in visual arts, music, digital media, dance, creative agency, and literary arts.

At its core is “Main Street,” a central spine connecting all spaces, including three internal courtyards that bring natural light into the building and extend its theater, visual arts, and dance programs. Traditional academic spaces like seminar rooms and “huddle” areas are seamlessly integrated with specialized creative facilities, including a performance venue, recording and broadcast studios, two dance labs, and visual/digital arts labs.

Outside, a former loading dock has been reimagined as a landscaped entry plaza, providing a welcoming space for students to gather, enjoy recreation, or host outdoor performances.

At Art in Motion, creativity transcends the confines of traditional classrooms, infusing every corner, hallway, and courtyard. Here, art flows freely, enriching the environment and inspiring everyone who passes through.

One of the central challenges in creating this dynamic space was transforming a 120,000-square-foot industrial building—originally constructed as an ice plant in 1917 and later repurposed as a paper factory—into a vibrant hub for creativity and learning. The building’s original grid-like structure, while functional, was rigid and deprived of natural light, requiring innovative design strategies to introduce light, variety, and human-scaled spaces.

To address these challenges, the design employs a strategy of addition through subtraction: selectively removing portions of the structure to carve out three courtyards that bring daylight, greenery (in a future phase), and fresh air into the heart of the building. These courtyards are more than just sources of light; they become central landmarks for orientation, gathering, and connection, serving as extensions of adjacent creative programs. For instance, the theater arts, visual arts, and dance studios open directly onto these courtyards, enabling a seamless integration of indoor and outdoor learning, where art can extend and evolve in these open spaces.

Students are immersed in the building’s rich history and inspired by its creative transformation from the moment they enter through a reimagined loading dock and a landscaped, multifunctional entry plaza (planned for future development). This plaza provides a welcoming space for student entry, outdoor performances, and informal gatherings. Inside, the industrial character of the building is celebrated, with exposed steel structures and soaring 19-foot ceilings offering a striking backdrop to the newly introduced, human-scaled interior volumes.

The design is anchored by “Main Street,” a central circulation spine that connects academic spaces—such as seminar rooms and small group “huddle” areas—with specialized creative arts spaces, including performance venues, recording and broadcast studios, a dance lab, and a visual arts lab. This thoughtfully organized spine fosters both collaboration and individual exploration.

Art in Motion epitomizes the harmonious integration of the creative arts with academic excellence, providing a vibrant, student-centered environment. Designed to inspire students—primarily from historically marginalized communities—the school fosters growth, creativity, and transformation, preparing students to embrace their full potential.

The construction of the project was planned in two distinct phases. The first phase focused on exterior masonry restoration and the replacement of the roof’s metal decking, joists, and membrane. This approach aimed to expedite the permitting process and establish a weather-tight enclosure, eliminating the need for costly winter conditions. The second phase encompassed interior construction and site improvements. However, the first phase experienced delays due to extensive structural deterioration of the metal decking, the need for structural reinforcements to meet building code requirements, and an expanded scope of masonry restoration.

Challenges for project completion were further compounded by escalating construction costs due to COVID-19 and unforeseen site conditions. Critical components, including the electrical switchgear, light fixtures, lighting controls, rooftop units, skylight, structural steel, metal decking, roof insulation, and membrane, were all impacted. To mitigate these challenges, the design and construction team implemented numerous adjustments to specifications and construction sequencing, striving to minimize disruptions and manage the escalating costs.

The project experienced one (1) recorded safety incident. An electrician fell five (5) feet at an open stair. Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) were called by the site superintendent and provided medical assistance to the injured individual.

Throughout the construction process, there were no COVID-19 outbreaks on-site. All necessary COVID-19 protocols aligned with City of Chicago regulations and CDC guidelines were strictly implemented by the contractor. These measures included mandatory mask-wearing for all site personnel and visitors, regular monitoring of personnel body temperatures by the site superintendent, and the provision of additional portable restrooms with bi-weekly cleaning. Hand sanitizers were made readily available, and the contractor enforced a six-foot social distancing rule during periods of heightened COVID-19 precautions.

The project required extensive coordination with multiple agencies and utilities, including the City of Chicago Department of Buildings, the City of Chicago Department of Water Management, I-DOT, ComEd, People’s Gas, Comcast, and AT&T.

Art in Motion plays a pivotal role in empowering students from historically marginalized backgrounds by providing a creative, inclusive, and transformative learning environment that fosters academic, artistic, and personal growth.

Scott Frauenheim, CEO of Distinctive Schools shared, “Art in Motion’s expansion is another step in the right direction for the future of education and the city of Chicago. By focusing on schools as equity-focused community hubs, we will give students, families and partners access to the innovative and arts integrated academic, health care and social services that they need to not just cope, but rather to thrive.”

Art In Motion Creative Arts School (AIM) is a tuition-free, 7th-12th grade public charter school located in the South Shore community serving students from 60 Chicago communities. AIM provides each student with opportunities to achieve their fullest academic, artistic, and human potential through the values of Community, Creativity, Love, and Excellence. The goal of Art In Motion is to create diverse, joyful, welcoming communities rooted in social justice and rigorous learning. They support all learners to be engaged, curious and to achieve their full potential. Their students become confident advocates, creative problem-solvers and collaborative leaders.

AIM was born out of a community collaboration – including founding partners New Life Covenant Southeast Church and Lonnie Rashid Lynn, known as Common – that sought to provide integrated full school arts programming for students on the south side of Chicago. AIM opened in the Fall of 2019 to serve students in 7th and 8th grades, and has added an additional grade level each year. In June 2024, they celebrated their first class of high school graduates with students admitted to schools such as Juilliard and Savannah College of Art & Design; Howard, Hampton and Dillard Universities; Eastern Illinois and Southern Illinois Universities and Roosevelt University.

As a charter school, AIM has the autonomy to create a unique learning environment that weaves artistic literacy into core academics and social emotional learning and teaches students to leverage art as communication, personal realization, culture, history, and a path to a sustainable career. In addition to core academics, enrichment is fully embedded in AIM’s model and includes courses in vocal and instrumental music, literary arts, media arts, dance and visual arts. AIM also has the flexibility to meet student needs and interest through choice programs such as AIM Studio afterschool programming and sports offerings.

AIM’s student objectives are aligned to IL Learning Standards for the Arts (which are adapted from the National Coalition for Core Arts Standards) goals and are designed to cultivate artistic literacy & identity. Additionally, AIM serves as a demonstration site for the federal Department of Education Race, Equity, Arts and Cultural History Grant. This project is developing a national model for arts learning and arts integration in U.S. schools and offers three major categories of focus over time, Professional Development for Culturally Relevant Arts integration, Summer Institute and Artists in Residence for our students and staff. This focus empowers our educators in core academic content areas to develop, build, practice and implement culturally relevant arts integration practices.

AIM is managed and operated by Distinctive Schools (DS), a non-profit School Management Organization with a focus on innovation, culture and equity. DS was founded knowing all children deserve a rigorous public education regardless of zip code; teachers know best what children need to thrive and grow and should have a strong voice in a school; families are essential in creating a love of lifelong learning and supporting the whole child; and finally, communities can be transformed by the presence of an excellent school. AIM’s educational philosophy, which strives to prepare capable, high-achieving, future-ready students, intentionally combines rigorous learning with personalized, student centered learning, social emotional learning, and an equitable experience for every student.

1) Preserving History and Identity: Repurposing a building built in 1917 as an ice plant and paper cup factory into a vibrant school reinforces the history of place and maintains the urban fabric. Art In Motion has become a neighborhood asset employing staff from the community and educating neighborhood students.

2) Enhance community connections: AIM was born out of a community collaboration – including founding partners New Life Covenant Southeast Church, Alderwoman Michelle Harris, and Lonnie Rashid Lynn, known as Common – that sought to provide integrated full school arts programming for students on the south side of Chicago.

3) Economic Development: Re-development of a vacant building and underutilized site in a community space for gathering and education.

4) Arts, Culture and Entertainment: Exterior landscaped plaza and sport court as a space as an “arts hub” for community gathering and outdoor performances by local and international arts.

5) Empowering Students: Art in Motion is the only arts focused public school on the south side of Chicago. Art in Motion provides a creative, inclusive, and transformative learning environment that supports academic, artistic, and personal growth for students from historically marginalized backgrounds.

Located at 63rd and Racine Ave. in Englewood, the project marks the first phase of the ‘Go Green on Racine’ master plan to revitalize a neighborhood severely challenged by long-term systemic disinvestment. This adaptive reuse of a 1906 two-story masonry building, despite its structural issues and fire damage, serves as a symbol of resilience amidst neighborhood decline.

Many low-income neighborhoods lack access to healthy groceries, often relying on corner stores with limited fresh food options. The Fresh Market re-defines the traditional urban corner store, offering locally sourced produce and chef-prepared meals. Serving approximately 6,000 residents within a 10-minute walking radius, it provides a dignified, safe, and prideful source of fresh food and community connection.

Inside, the design is welcoming and promotes safety, with open sightlines to the street and face-to-face interaction within the store. Using colors from West African fabrics, natural materials, and artwork from local contributors, the Fresh Market is rooted in the community; it is by and for Englewood.

The Go Green Community Fresh Market reimagines the urban corner store in Englewood, addressing what’s often lacking: fresh, healthy food. Designed to remain a familiar neighborhood resource while offering much more, the Fresh Market provides locally sourced produce and ready-to-eat meals prepared by Chicago-area chefs in an uplifting and dignified environment.

The project adapts a vacant 1906 two-story masonry building with significant structural deficiencies and fire damage. Though constructing a new building may have been more cost effective, the project’s success hinges on adapting what’s already familiar and trusted. For decades, residents of 63rd and Racine have purchased food at this site, most recently home to the corner store “A Lot to Save.” Restoring the building stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and renewal for a neighborhood once in decline.

The design delicately balances familiarity with elements that pique curiosity. Flat panel fluorescent lights, typical of corner stores, are replicated in LED panels at the storefront to create a familiar street view. Inside, however, softer downlighting enhances visibility and ambiance. Large, floor-to-ceiling windows invite natural light and views into the store, ensuring the experience feels welcoming, approachable, and not out of reach for neighborhood residents.

Where corner stores often feel crowded with products, the Fresh Market transforms the space with thoughtful design. Wood laminate finishes replace typical plastic laminates, adding warmth and texture, while exposed original brick walls connect to the building’s history. A new skylight and daylight from the storefront illuminate vibrant displays of fruits and vegetables, creating an inviting atmosphere. Shelving is intentionally kept low in the center, ensuring clear sightlines throughout, from the entrance to the prep kitchen at the back. This layout reduces reliance on security cameras and fosters face-to-face interaction.

Above the market, training and conference rooms host classes on healthy eating and food preparation, expanding its impact beyond shopping. Additionally, the recent acquisition of the open lot to the east of the building, the ‘Griot Plaza’, has expanded program capabilities, including outdoor community space for events and creating community garden space.

More than just a market, the Go Green Community Fresh Market is a welcoming, safe, and dignified space—a source of pride for Englewood. It provides access to fresh, healthy food while fostering community and connection.

Construction commenced in March 2020 but was significantly impacted by COVID-19, which caused delays in the fabrication and delivery of critical building components such as the rooftop unit, light fixtures and electrical switchgear. The pandemic also influenced the building’s design. Initially, the Fresh Market concept aimed to accommodate a range of uses, including a fresh market, art gallery, and pop-up event space. However, as COVID-19 heightened the need for access to fresh produce, the client shifted priorities. The first-floor layout was entirely redesigned and re-permitted during construction to allocate more space to food display and on-site preparation. This adjustment required modifications to underground utilities as well as mechanical and electrical systems. During this period, the contractor focused on restoring the building’s exterior and implementing structural improvements to achieve a weatherproof enclosure.

The building presented significant structural challenges, stemming from fire damage in the 1990s, prolonged moisture infiltration, and years of neglect. To address these issues, the masonry façade underwent a full restoration. Additionally, the roof framing was completely replaced, most of the second-floor framing was rebuilt, and a new concrete slab was installed at ground level. All of this work was performed with meticulous care to ensure the building’s structural integrity throughout the restoration process.

Integrating modern systems into the building posed further challenges. A new water and sewer service were installed to comply with the City of Chicago’s separation requirements, and a new electrical service was introduced to handle increased load demands, all within the constraints of the compact site. Accessibility was another critical consideration, achieved by installing a Limited Use/Limited Application (LULA) elevator. This required constructing a masonry shaft and ensuring overhead clearance below the roof framing.

A key component of the project was its focus on workforce development. The contractor partnered with the client, the Inner-City Muslim Action Network (IMAN), leveraging their Green ReEntry apprenticeship program to incorporate trainees and graduates, providing hands-on experience throughout the construction process.

The project experienced one (1) recorded safety incident. A potential new hire for the roofing sub-contractor, entered an unreinforced section of the roof despite barriers and fell between the roof joists. Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) were called by the site superintendent and provided medical assistance to the injured individual.

Throughout the construction process, there were no COVID-19 outbreaks on-site. All necessary COVID-19 protocols aligned with City of Chicago regulations and CDC guidelines were strictly implemented by the contractor. These measures included mandatory mask-wearing for all site personnel and visitors, regular monitoring of personnel body temperatures by the site superintendent, and the provision of additional portable restrooms with bi-weekly cleaning. Hand sanitizers were made readily available, and the contractor enforced a six-foot social distancing rule during periods of heightened COVID-19 precautions.

The project required extensive coordination with multiple agencies and utilities, including the City of Chicago Department of Buildings, the City of Chicago Department of Water Management, I-DOT, ComEd, People’s Gas, Comcast, and AT&T.

Since its incorporation in 1997, the Inner-City Muslim Action Network (IMAN) has brought together residents and store owners around alternative community-centered models of corner stores. In 2007, an IMAN-led study found racial tensions between Arab corner store owners and predominantly African American residents. The study also established that many residents were using these stores in Englewood, and surrounding south-side neighborhoods, for their primary access to food. In response, IMAN launched its flagship Corner Store Campaign, intervening to provide incentives for stores to improve access to nutritious food and build meaningful relationships with residents.

In 2015, one of IMAN’s partnering corner stores, located at 63rd St. and Racine Ave. in the heart of Englewood, was destroyed in a fire. An Englewood resident, R.A.G.E. member, and corner store campaign leader encouraged IMAN to acquire and build this property as a model corner store. That property is now the Go Green Community Fresh Market, a neighborhood grocer that has transformed the once ill-reputed intersection into a destination for good food and community.

Since opening in 2022, the Fresh Market has transformed the intersection, improving walkability and safety due to the presence of IMAN’s Community Safety & Engagement Team (CSE) and more “eyes on the street” from Market shoppers. CSE takes community walks and IMAN staff have connected with local businesses, bringing mint tea to neighboring businesses owners. The Fresh Market has beautified the corner with planters and the only sidewalk cafe in Englewood.

Adjacent to the Market is IMAN’s Griot Plaza, featuring a mural by local artist Eric Hotchkiss and providing space for cultural activity and community connections. The Fresh Market is an innovative model for food access in Englewood. As a mission-driven store, the Fresh Market is an alternative to food pantries–which provide important emergency services, but are not a long-term solution to food insecurity–and traditional for-profit grocery chains that are abandoning low-income neighborhoods. The Market is open 7 days a week, offering full-service options including a produce section, prepared foods, fresh meats and products from 25+ local and BIPOC vendors. It is a culturally harmonious retailer, hiring locally and offering products that resonate with the community. The Market offers a number of affordability programs, including a loyalty rewards program which currently has 4,900+ members and a 5% Englewood resident discount. Over 24,000 Englewood resident discounts have been applied since it was introduced in March 2023. Thanks to its non-profit model, the Market leverages grants to offer food access programs to shoppers according to their varying needs, while providing choice and convenience in a dignified shopping experience.

The Fresh Market is part of the larger Go Green on Racine holistic vision for neighborhood revitalization. This includes The Regenerator, adaptive reuse of the Granville T. Woods Academy into permanent supportive housing and healthcare ecosystem; and advocacy to reopen the CTA Racine Green Line station, closed since 1994. IMAN and partners Teamwork Englewood, R.A.G.E. and E.G. Woode have formed the Go Green Development Group, a community-led entity driving this vision forward.

This project highlights our efforts to promote diversity and inclusion, not only through subcontractor participation but also within our project team and workplace culture. Walsh exceeded the owner’s 8% combined MBE and WBE participation goal, ensuring meaningful opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses.

The team also created opportunities to inspire future generations, hosting a “Bring Your Daughter to Work” Day, where young girls were introduced to careers in construction. While this was a small step, it reflects our potential to expand these efforts into actionable plans for broader outreach and education.

Representation on the team itself also made an impact, with six full-time women in operations roles contributing significantly to the project’s success as well as four female interns throughout the project. On top of that, our field trailer was designed to be fully ADA-compliant, demonstrating our commitment to accessibility not only in what we build but in how we work.

Additionally, the team’s involvement with the ACE Mentor Program further reflects our commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the construction industry. ACE (Architecture, Construction and Engineering) is a national program founded in 1995 that aims to attract local high school students—particularly students of color, women and individuals from low-income populations—to careers in architecture, construction and engineering. Through mentoring and exposure to real-world projects, ACE provides opportunities for students to explore these industries and build skills for the future. While the work with ACE was not directly tied to this project, it underscores Walsh’s dedication to encouraging the next generation of leaders from underrepresented backgrounds and aligns closely with the values we prioritize at Walsh and in the broader industry.

A swift response to a growing need, the North Side Housing and Supportive Services (NSHSS) non-congregate shelter in Rogers Park is more than just a place for 70 men to sleep — it redefines the shelter model and offers real hope to those facing long-term hardships. Funded by a new Chicago DOH and DFSS grant program, the project overcame a year of preconstruction challenges, unexpected demolition issues, design-constructability hurdles, and tight timelines to open before the holidays and winter.

Designed by Gensler, the adaptive reuse transformed a defunct medical office into a reimagined and supportive shelter, with every detail thoughtfully crafted through trauma-informed design. Fitting high-density program requirements into a 10,000-sf space, NSHSS features 70 double-occupancy beds, a commercial kitchen, common space, case management offices, and wraparound support services. Widely featured in local media, the project stands as a transformative model for dignified supportive housing, empowering men to move forward in meaningful and sustainable ways.

For many, religious buildings are second homes where they can be at home, at peace, and surrounded by loved ones. Because of this, one of the most challenging aspects of the design of these spaces is acknowledging the unique importance and the intimate relationship congregants have with these places.

The design process for North Side Housing and Supportive Services was anchored in trauma-informed principles, challenging us to reimagine how a 10,000-square-foot vacant building could become a refuge for 70 residents. Through a rigorous design investigation with the North Side Department of Housing and Department of Family & Supportive Services teams, we developed a non-congregate housing approach that prioritizes psychological safety while fostering community. This informed our key design decision to position the reception area as the shelter’s communal heart, complemented by thoughtfully arranged, semi-private sleeping spaces.

Achieving the project’s vision required solving multiple technical and aesthetic challenges simultaneously. We strategically integrated skylights to provide natural illumination while preserving privacy, incorporated a custom open shelving system that displays plants and books, and installed warm, multi-toned terrazzo flooring in public areas to create an elevated yet welcoming atmosphere. The material palette carefully balances durability requirements with residential comfort, employing calming colors and natural textures that intentionally avoid institutional associations. These elements work cohesively to create an environment that supports healing and dignity, demonstrating that high-quality design can transform supportive housing into a nurturing space for wellness.

Converting a circa 1950s former manufacturing facility presented significant structural complexities that demanded innovative solutions. The integration of over forty skylights required extensive collaboration between the architects, structural engineers, and contractors to navigate the building’s multiple past renovations and existing conditions. Through methodical investigation and coordinated problem-solving, we successfully transformed the challenging industrial framework into a brightly lit environment where every space benefits from natural daylight, fundamentally supporting our trauma-informed design goals.

At its core, the North Side Housing and Supportive Services (NSHSS) non-congregate shelter involved the most comprehensive renovation imaginable, transforming a distressed building on the brink of demolition into a fully rehabilitated space. The goals were clear: deliver a high-quality shelter within a strict budget and tight timeline while addressing the challenge of fitting the program’s design priorities and support services into a 10,000-square-foot structure. The project required both a hyper-strategic and nimble approach, balancing design and programmatic goals with financial constraints while overcoming the inherent challenges of working within an older building. Adding complexity was the navigation of a brand-new grant program, with multiple stakeholders, elected officials, and city agencies involved, navigated carefully to achieve the collective desired outcomes.

A strong partnership between the architect and GC during the preconstruction phase was critical and laid the foundation for success. Our team collaborated with Gensler to run early cost-benefit analyses on multiple design schemes, tackling head-on the initial challenge of fitting 70 beds and various support services within 10,000 square feet, within a limited budget, while meeting desired design objectives. Studying every possibility, we were able to provide the client with solid data from day one and strengthen as collaborators while we determined direction.

As with many adaptive reuse projects, unexpected surprises arose during construction. Due to schedule constraints, limited investigative demolition was possible, which meant certain deficiencies in the building weren’t uncovered until the project was well underway.
We discovered multiple portions of the facade had been used as a dumping ground for construction debris over the years, compromising its stability. Structural issues were discovered within the roof. The existing exterior failed to meet expectations from a thermal performance standpoint. Our team tackled these challenges head-on, shoring up parts of the building and carrying out necessary structural retrofits, completing a full rebuild of the compromised wall, addressing the roof’s structural issues, and executing a complete recladding of the building from both an aesthetic and thermal performance standpoint. We remained nimble while effectively driving high-quality solutions, ensuring the building’s safety and longevity while staying within budget and on schedule.

Committing to design goals in an ever-shifting adaptive reuse puzzle was a complex challenge. The density of the program and design within such a small footprint invited numerous constructability issues, one of the most significant being providing natural light in every sleeping room. Structural modifications were required to integrate 33 skylights — critical to achieving natural light and creating a home-like atmosphere. This decision sparked a complex coordination effort across multiple trades and building systems, solving for placement among extensive roof repairs, a new HVAC system, and other MEPs. The skylight design required several adjustments, and we had to ensure all roof mounted components would remain out of sight lines from Clark Street. Despite the added complexity, the skylights aligned perfectly with the project’s vision of supportive housing and was in fact the right choice for creating a welcoming, light-filled environment.

Solving for unexpected project challenges was inherently complex, and more so on a site located along a major road with a near-zero lot line – creating tight constraints for staging, parking, material deliveries, and ongoing work. The prominence and density of the site also had an impact on the surrounding community. From the outset, strong relationships with the neighborhood were fostered by Alderwoman Maria Hadden, who worked tirelessly to garner support from residents and businesses. However, once construction began, the contractor took on the critical role of addressing any ongoing concerns from neighbors. Our team spearheaded communication efforts, effectively resolving issues related to the ongoing project while strengthening our connection with the community. Thanks to transparent, empathetic, and proactive communication, we’re proud to say the process went as smoothly as possible.

The construction of NSHSS stands as a powerful example of strength, ingenuity, and determination. The project masterfully combined construction durability and quality with design warmth and support. Materials were carefully selected to ensure the shelter could withstand the demands of daily use while maintaining its function and aesthetic for years to come. Despite the focus on strength and practicality, the design intentionally avoids an institutional feel, ensuring the space remains welcoming and home-like for residents.

The project overcame numerous challenges and is serving an immediate and growing need. NSHSS was the first shelter built under the DOH and DFSS Non-Congregate Shelter Acquisition Program, an exciting milestone but with inherent difficulties due to lack of precedent or roadmap. Knowing a well-defined plan and approach were critical, our GC and architecture team worked to address unknowns, clarify communication, and define workflows – establishing a successful framework to guide not only this project, but future grant-funded shelters in Chicago.

Approximately 19,470 hours were logged for the NSHSS project, with zero lost time and zero incidents.

Our team preemptively and proactively studied the site and produced overly comprehensive safety measures, protocols and communications prior to the project. Still, new discoveries would take place due to the extremely poor condition of the original building and the nature of adaptive resuse projects. Unforeseen structural work, new shoring, and additional significant roof work were required. Our team managed new scope with preparedness, resolve and rigor, always putting safety first as they implemented and enforced additional safety measures and protocols throughout.

In addition to standard safety protocols, our team prioritized site safety as the project site became active with visitors and events. Multiple donor and fundraising events took place, and several visitors toured the site to see progress. As we delivered substantial completion, we continued to monitor site safety around NSHSS staff training, NSHSS intakes and early resident occupancy.

Safety is a top priority within any Valenti project and considers the construction site, tool, and equipment protocols, as well as site security, client and visitor activity, and the overall wellbeing of any contractor that steps foot in the field. Valenti proactively engaged all project stakeholders within the NSHSS project and tailored a Site-Specific Safety Plan with layered protocols, vetting and assurances. While plans were developed very early in the process, our team also conducted ongoing safety meetings to consistently assess, reexamine, and ensure proper measures were always taking place.

The North Side Housing and Supportive Services (NSHSS) shelter project was much more than building a place for 70 men to sleep — it was about transforming the shelter model and offering real hope to people who had long-faced hardships. It was also about a swift response to a growing need, taking into consideration winter quickly approaching and the ongoing struggles of people living in tent encampments. The goal was to get residents into the shelter as quickly as possible, and with a mix of determination and flexibility, that’s exactly what we achieved.

Substantial completion was achieved in the first week of November, followed by final inspections, furniture delivery and assembly, and essential NSHSS staff training. Every partner understood the importance of each day and hour, and with determination the shelter opened its doors in early December – and reached capacity within a week.

Project requirements called for 26% MBE, 6% WBE, and 50% city residency participation. Efforts began with our existing MBE/WBE subcontractors and firms we’d connected with through previous Valenti outreach sessions. We then expanded the team through new relationships facilitated by economic development consulting firm, Tandem Ventures. This collaboration enabled us to meet the project budget while surpassing our diversity goals and building new partnerships for future collaborations.

A meaningful surprise was realizing a few subcontractors had personal connections to the neighborhood. The roofers, the demolition foreman, and the tile contractor all shared a history with the North Side, some having grown up just down the street. This added a sense of pride and personal investment in the project. Many of them expressed excitement at contributing to a facility that would directly give back to a community that had faced many challenges over the past few decades.

In addition to the strong local involvement, we were fortunate to receive significant donations from major companies. Kohler generously donated all the plumbing fixtures, including faucets, sinks, and showerheads, while IKEA contributed all freestanding furniture for the shelter. These donations helped ensure that the facility was outfitted with the quality and functionality needed to support the residents while staying within budget.

A project to remember, the NSHSS shelter represents what can be accomplished when people come together for a shared goal. It’s more than just a building — it’s a home for 70 men who have an opportunity to move forward in a safe and supportive environment. This project didn’t just address a physical need — it helped foster a sense of belonging, giving back to a neighborhood that has seen its fair share of struggle and creating a place for healing and new beginnings.

According to the Chicago 2024 Annual Report on Homelessness, “Homelessness in Chicago is increasing. The City’s annual Point-in-Time Count of people experiencing homelessness estimated 18,836 people experiencing homelessness in shelters or unsheltered locations on January 25, 2024.”

Under the Chicago Recovery Plan, DOH was directed to invest $30 million in the acquisition and launch of non-congregate shelters that provide emergency, transitional, and stabilization housing for the most vulnerable Chicagoans, including those currently experiencing homelessness and residing in densely congregated emergency shelters.

Meredith Muir states, “DOH launched its Non-Congregate Shelter Acquisition Program in partnership with the Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS). In 2022, DOH put forth an RFP for the Non-Congregate Shelter Acquisition program and selected five grantee finalists providing shelter across the City to receive capital funding to acquire new non-congregate buildings. In 2023 and 2024, all projects advanced, identifying sites for acquisition and starting the site due diligence processes. To date, two shelter acquisitions have closed, one has completed construction (North Side Housing and Supportive Services), and the other three are advancing through the site selection, zoning, and building permitting processes.”

NSHSS was the first organization to receive the grant and complete their new shelter, a remarkable achievement that was both well-deserved and critical to their mission. Their origins began in 1983, when a group of Lakeview residents and local churches formed a shelter to provide refuge for homeless men, operating out of a church basement for over 25 years. This effort led to the creation of North Side Housing and Supportive Services (NSHSS), and in 2010 they relocated to Uptown and expanded their programs to include a Daytime Support Services Center and a Housing Navigator Program. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted another shift, and they had to temporarily house clients in a hotel to maintain safety. This experience highlighted the need for permanent shelter.

With the grant covering the acquisition cost, NSHSS became the owner of the vacant medical building in Rogers Park in 2022. The project team grew, and every partner understood the importance of each day and hour – and with determination the new shelter opened its doors in early December, reaching capacity of 70 men within a week.

Via the NSHSS website: The NSHSS shelter provides safe, stable housing and helps men rebuild their lives and connect with long-term housing solutions, while prioritizing privacy and dignity. It sets a new standard for all future shelters in Chicago, offering dorm-style, two-person sleeping rooms for greater privacy, a commercial kitchen, updated HVAC system, laundry facilities, spacious showers, and an onsite medical exam room. Expected to serve 250 men each year, the goal is helping residents heal from the trauma of living outside and in the parks, reducing the amount of time in the shelter, and transitioning into long-term, stable housing. Each resident is assigned a caseworker to assist with housing applications, connect them to mental health support, counseling, financial literacy classes, and job training.

“Our Non-Congregate Shelter Acquisition Program represents Mayor Johnson’s commitment to addressing housing stability for residents facing insecurity,” said Housing Commissioner Lissette Castañeda. “By investing in properties that provide privacy and safety—and in nonprofit organizations that do the hard work of housing people every day—we are not only expanding shelter options but also nurturing an environment that centers on recovery and a path toward permanent housing solutions.”

Solverre, developed by Willow Bridge Property Company, is a luxury Class A rental apartment community. This new 12-story residential development is situated on a one-acre plot in the Uptown neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois, and comprises approximately 303 rental units with an above-ground parking facility. The building’s contemporary design harmonizes with the surrounding urban landscape and provides unobstructed views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. The 12-story building, constructed with a blend of innovative techniques and traditional craftsmanship, offers a variety of living spaces from studios to two-bedroom apartments. Residents enjoy a best-in-class amenity package, including a pool deck, fireplaces, grills, bike storage, a dog room, a business center, club rooms, a yoga studio, and a fitness room. The project achieved 21.56% M/WBE participation and 33% of construction jobs were filled by local residents.

Solverre’s sleek lines and contemporary façade harmonize with the surrounding urban landscape, creating an architectural masterpiece that complements the Chicago skyline. The building includes several distinctive architectural features and is the first precast building in North America to adhere to the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute’s stringent construction tolerances. Erected by a PCI-certified erector, Solverre is classified as an AB project, indicating its complexity in precast design. The seamless integration of precast brick panels with field brick and custom window wall detailing creates a visually stunning façade.

Strategically positioned egress stairs and an elevator lobby along the exterior create natural light and promote use and passive surveillance. Additional features like floor-to-ceiling windows, etched glass, and dark gray brick and metal accents add a contemporary touch to the building’s exterior. The central sundeck, nestled within the U-shaped structure, offers residents impressive views and abundant natural light.

Aligned with Chicago’s Sustainable Development policy, Solverre champions energy and water efficiencies. The building features a green roof covering 50% of the surface area, achieving 20% energy savings over ASHRAE standards. Ample bicycle storage and EV charging stations are also thoughtfully provided. The first two floors also feature fritted glass that safeguards migrating bird populations, demonstrating environmental stewardship.

The construction team employed a series of innovative strategies and fostered early partnerships with key contractors, resulting in substantial cost savings of $8 million. Initially envisioned as a framed structure, Solverre underwent a comprehensive structural evaluation to explore cost-effective solutions. The team thoroughly evaluated the most economical structure, comparing the steel truss panel system with concrete.

Prior to the completion of the design, early partnerships were forged with the concrete, architectural precast, window wall, and MEP/FP trade contractors. These early collaborations drove the most effective and economical outcomes for the installation and detailing of the building’s skin and critical MEP systems. This ensured that all elements were designed and installed efficiently, cost-effectively, and to the highest quality standards. Through these measures, the Gilbane team demonstrated their commitment to excellence and innovation in construction.

Located in a vibrant neighborhood, Solverre prioritizes public space and the resident/pedestrian experience. High resident satisfaction underscores the project’s positive impact on the Uptown community and Chicago’s architectural landscape. The design goals were met, end users are satisfied, and the quality of craftsmanship exemplifies excellence.

The design process began in December 2019 and encountered an unforeseen obstacle—the Covid-19 pandemic. The design team quickly adjusted workflows, collaborating closely with the city’s Department of Planning and Development and the neighborhood’s alderman to ensure the project’s progression while prioritizing the health and safety of the entire team.
However, the pandemic triggered supply chain disruptions, particularly impacting the availability of insulation and waterproofing materials. The design and construction team promptly evaluated all exterior building conditions and adjusted construction details based on material availability and constructability. This proactive approach ensured the project remained on schedule while maintaining stringent quality and safety standards.

As the project progressed, the exterior enclosure materials and systems underwent significant modifications during the design development phase. Gilbane and Valerio Dewalt Train collaborated with the manufacturer to transform the original exterior grid into an elegant window wall. This transformation facilitated unique design solutions across the building envelope at various intersections, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality while also reducing costs.

Solverre, located adjacent to a highly active hospital, required meticulous construction site logistics. The construction team aligned material deliveries with the hospital’s operational requirements, ensuring zero disruption to the emergency department driveway and surrounding traffic routes. Hardscape protection measures were implemented to safeguard city streets, cyclists, and pedestrians from construction-related activities. The team also navigated an intricate urban infrastructure, a 130- foot water tunnel beneath the site that required close coordination with the city’s water department.

Gilbane leveraged cutting-edge 4D modeling by integrating the building’s design and construction models into our scheduling process. This approach allowed us to establish 4D model standards for virtual mock-ups and prefabricated construction zones while identifying any missed scope items for 303 residential units. Using these mockups, our team fine-tuned the millwork installation sequence and addressed vanity installation issues in each unit before construction began. By catching these issues early, we prevented significant rework and potential delays in the project schedule, ensuring all bathrooms were seamlessly constructed across all 12 floors. Utilizing this innovative and best-in-class tool enhanced team engagement and communication.

The construction of Solverre was a complex task that required precision, resilience, and teamwork. Despite challenges such as supply chain disruptions and intricate urban infrastructure, the team successfully completed the construction project on schedule and within budget. This accomplishment was achieved through careful planning, efficient execution, and collaborative problem-solving.

Solverre stands as a symbol of successful design and construction under challenging circumstances. The building is not just a structure, it’s a testament to the team’s ability to adapt and innovate in the face of adversity.

An unwavering commitment to safety lies at the heart of the Solverre. Rather than treating safety as a mere checklist, Gilbane’s project team recognized safety as a cultural necessity, a shared responsibility woven into every construction aspect of the project’s lifecycle.

The team implemented a multifaceted approach, starting with daily shift-start meetings. These meetings ensured that all trade contractors were brief on the day’s tasks and safety protocols. Pre-planning these meetings allowed for proactive hazard identification and risk mitigation, emphasizing the importance of preparation. Additionally, weekly foreman meetings facilitated communication and coordination among team leaders, reinforced safety practices, and addressed any potential concerns promptly.

Intensive training was a cornerstone, especially for high-risk activities such as working at heights, operating heavy machinery, and handling hazardous materials. Regular safety stand-downs empowered workers to actively monitor and correct unsafe behaviors. Mandatory scaffold erection and fall protection training was provided for all workers involved in elevated work, while emphasis was placed on proper shoring techniques and soil analysis during excavation work. By tailoring training to specific tasks, the workforce gained a comprehensive understanding of the risks associated with their work and learned effective mitigation strategies.

The project team conducted thorough investigations following any near misses, learning from each event to prevent recurrence. Our team did not just react to safety concerns; they proactively fostered a strong safety culture, focusing on continuous improvement to set a new standard for future industry projects. The project team exemplified safety excellence through a comprehensive approach.

OSHA Recordable Incident Rate: 0.63
Lost Time Accident Rate: 1.25
Total Worker Hours on Job: 320,000

At Gilbane Building Company, we are deeply committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion on our projects. Solverre, in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood, exemplifies our dedication to these principles. This luxury Class A rental apartment community, developed by Willow Bridge Property Company, not only enhances the urban landscape but also serves as a beacon of inclusivity and economic empowerment.

Commitment to Supplier Diversity: The project achieved 21.56% minority- and women-owned business enterprises (M/WBE) participation, surpassing industry standards and demonstrating our commitment to supplier diversity. This initiative ensured that a substantial portion of the project’s budget was allocated to businesses that are often underrepresented in the construction industry. By doing so, we not only supported these businesses but also contributed to the economic growth and sustainability of the local community.

Local Workforce Inclusion: In addition to supplier diversity, the Solverre project prioritized local workforce inclusion. 33% of construction jobs were filled by local residents, providing employment opportunities to individuals within the community. This approach not only boosted the local economy but also fostered a sense of ownership and pride among residents. By hiring locally, we ensured that the project’s benefits extended beyond its
physical footprint, positively impacting the lives of those who live and work in the area.

Addressing Community Needs: Solverre addresses critical community needs by incorporating affordable housing units into its design. The project includes eight affordable housing units, providing much-needed housing options in an area long-challenged by housing shortages. Additionally, Willow Bridge Property Company contributed over $3 million to support a new 28-unit project led by Sarah’s Circle, a local organization dedicated to empowering women experiencing homelessness. This contribution underscores our commitment to addressing societal issues and promoting equity within the community.

Inclusive Design and Accessibility: Solverre’s design reflects inclusivity and accessibility. The building features a blend of dark brick cladding and expansive glass, harmonizing with its surroundings and creating a welcoming, pedestrian-friendly character. Including ample bicycle storage and EV charging stations promotes sustainable transportation options, making the building accessible to a diverse range of residents. Furthermore, the project features fritted glass to protect migrating bird populations, demonstrating our dedication to environmental stewardship.

DEI in Practice: During the construction phase, we collaborated closely with M/WBE firms to ensure their active participation and success. We provided mentorship and support to these businesses, helping them navigate the complexities of large-scale construction projects. This hands-on approach ensured that our DEI goals were met and that these firms could thrive and grow.

Moreover, our local hiring practices were implemented through targeted outreach and partnerships with community organizations. We worked with local job training programs to identify and recruit qualified candidates, providing them with the skills and opportunities needed to succeed in the construction industry. This initiative not only fulfilled our client’s requests for supplier diversity but also created a pipeline of talent for future projects.

Through supplier diversity, local workforce inclusion, and addressing community needs, Solverre enhances the urban landscape and promotes positive societal change.

Solverre, located in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood, has significantly improved the quality of life in an economically disadvantaged area. By incorporating affordable housing units, Solverre addresses the critical need for accessible housing options in a community long challenged by housing shortages. The inclusion of eight affordable housing units ensures that residents from diverse economic backgrounds can benefit from the development. Additionally, Willow Bridge Property Company donated $3 million to support a new 28-unit project for Sarah’s Circle, a local organization dedicated to empowering women experiencing homelessness. This contribution underscores our commitment to addressing societal issues and promoting equity within the community.

Solverre’s commitment to inclusion is evident through its supplier diversity and local workforce inclusion initiatives. Achieving 21.56% minority- and women-owned business enterprises (M/WBE) participation, the project surpasses industry standards and ensures that a substantial portion of the budget is allocated to underrepresented businesses. This not only supports these businesses but also contributes to the economic growth and sustainability of the local community. Furthermore, by filling 33% of construction jobs with local residents, Solverre provides employment opportunities to individuals within the community, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among residents.

Solverre enhances the urban landscape with its inclusive design and accessibility features. The building’s blend of dark brick cladding and expansive glass creates a welcoming, pedestrian-friendly character. Ample bicycle storage and EV charging stations promote sustainable transportation options, making the building accessible to a diverse range of residents. The use of fritted glass to protect migrating bird populations demonstrates our dedication to environmental stewardship, further enriching the community’s quality of life.

At Gilbane Building Company, we are deeply committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion on our projects. Solverre exemplifies our dedication to promoting inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. The project’s impact on the community is profound, as it not only enhances the urban landscape but also serves as a beacon of inclusivity and economic empowerment. By incorporating affordable housing units and supporting local organizations like Sarah’s Circle, Solverre addresses critical community needs and promotes equity within the community.

Solverre’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion is demonstrated through its supplier diversity and local workforce inclusion initiatives. Achieving 21.56% M/WBE participation, the project ensures that underrepresented businesses are actively involved and supported. This initiative not only contributes to the economic growth of the local community but also promotes a more inclusive construction industry. Additionally, by filling 33% of construction jobs with local residents, Solverre provides employment opportunities to individuals within the community, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among residents.

During the construction phase, we collaborated closely with M/WBE firms, providing mentorship and support to ensure their active participation and success. This hands-on approach ensured that our DEI goals were met and that these firms could thrive and grow. Our local hiring practices were implemented through targeted outreach and partnerships with community organizations, working with local job training programs to identify and recruit qualified candidates. This initiative not only fulfilled our client’s requests for supplier diversity but also created a pipeline of talent for future projects. Solverre’s inclusive design, featuring ample bicycle storage, EV charging stations, and fritted glass to protect migrating bird populations, further demonstrates our commitment to promoting accessibility and environmental stewardship.

Affordable housing development Encuentro Square Apartments features a 4-story, 51,970-SF, 32-unit complex and a 6-story, 75,850-SF, 57-unit complex. The residence offers 1-3 bedroom units, community and resident-only amenity spaces, a teaching kitchen, computer lab, outdoor recreational spaces, and other amenities. Once home to the Magid Glove factory, the land sat vacant from the late 2000s until it was bought in 2014 by The Trust for Public Land, who in turn sold to the city in 2019. With displacement pressure mounting, the Trust for Public Land and the city crafted a site redevelopment plan. Latin United Community Housing (LUCHA) and Evergreen Real Estate Group took on the plan in 2020. Financed by Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, Tax Increment Financing, HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds, Illinois Affordable Housing Tax Credits, and Affordable Housing Opportunity Funds, the complex provides much needed housing at an affordable rate, while sacrificing nothing in the way of comfortable living. The project had a customized safety plan and zero safety incidents, and all MBE, WEB, and city percentage goals were either met or exceeded.

Encuentro Square Apartments blends innovation with affordability, as well as convenience and culture with refined amenities and a sense of community that shines forth in the complex’s striking, colorful design and modern blend of rounded and squared features. Set in the heart of Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood, Encuentro Square stands out like a beacon, reflecting the rich diversity of the area and its residents, and providing an affordable place in which the community can gather and thrive, and continue to bring color to the city. The apartments at Encuentro Square are specifically designed to maximize living and entertaining space for residents of this thriving community, which has emerged as a hub for many art organizations, intimate music venues, locally owned shops, and buzz worthy eateries. The area’s creative energy and urban vibe make it a go-to for locals looking for the next cool thing, and Encuentro Square is one of those things.

Leopardo’s team of preconstruction and estimating experts helped guide the project through a complex field of material procurement and project funding. Materials with long lead times were identified up front and construction was adroitly scheduled around those times to ensure no delays. The project received funding from the City of Chicago in the form of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), Tax Increment Financing (TIF), HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds, Illinois Affordable Housing Tax Credits (IAHTC), and Affordable Housing Opportunity Funds (AHOF). The project was funded by a combination of financing sources, including both 4% and 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC)—a “twinning” deal. Twinning is a financing strategy used to maximize funding for affordable housing projects. In this approach, each building within the project is divided into two related yet separately financed segments, organized by floors, and units. By simultaneously securing both 9% and 4% LIHTC allocations, the hybrid method enhances the project’s financial feasibility, especially for larger scale developments. Utilizing its in-house team of Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) experts, Leopardo created models of the building that helped ensure accuracy and prevent delays before they happened.

This project had a customized safety plan and QR-code based safety orientation that allowed for immediate access to project safety information. Rather than a traditional “toolbox talk” style training, the project teams engaged in a 5-question quiz to determine how well they know that week’s safety topics.  Scores are utilized to follow-up as appropriate. Weekly safety visits were conducted by the Leopardo safety team to provide a new perspective and share recent news from other sites.  The Leopardo safety team also engaged with the weekly pull planning process to help with safety planning efforts. 100 safety inspections were conducted across the course of the project with more than 2,000 observations made and 125 corrections made before an incident occurred. This project was completed with an incident rate well below the average, with only one incident across 164,000 work hours.

The complex was conceived and delivered to provide much needed housing at an affordable rate to those living in the area, given the rising cost of housing in the Logan Square community, while also sacrificing nothing in the way of comfortable living. All units are deemed affordable by the city’s standards and are restricted to individuals or families who make below 60% of the area’s median income. The buildings offer one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, with rent set at $1,100 for a one-bedroom, $1,300 for a two-bedroom, and $1,600 for a three-bedroom. The Chicago Housing Authority provided rental assistance for 55 of the 89 units. Leopardo was proud to work closely with the Latin United Community Housing (LUCHA), as well as LIHTC syndicator National Equity Fund and construction and permanent lender BMO Harris Bank, to deliver the project. All MBE, WEB, and city percentage goals were either met or exceeded on the project.

The complex was conceived and delivered to provide much needed housing at an affordable rate to those living in the area, given the rising cost of housing in the Logan Square community, while also sacrificing nothing in the way of comfortable living. All units are deemed affordable by the city’s standards and are restricted to individuals or families who make below 60% of the area’s median income. The buildings offer one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, with rent set at $1,100 for a one-bedroom, $1,300 for a two-bedroom, and $1,600 for a three-bedroom. The Chicago Housing Authority provided rental assistance for 55 of the 89 units. Leopardo was proud to work closely with the Latin United Community Housing (LUCHA), as well as LIHTC syndicator National Equity Fund and construction and permanent lender BMO Harris Bank, to deliver the project. All MBE, WEB, and city percentage goals were either met or exceeded on the project.

The project received funding from the City of Chicago in the form of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), Tax Increment Financing (TIF), HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds, Illinois Affordable Housing Tax Credits (IAHTC), and Affordable Housing Opportunity Funds (AHOF). The project was funded by a combination of financing sources, including both 4% and 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC)—a “twinning” deal. Twinning is a financing strategy used to maximize funding for affordable housing projects. In this approach, each building within the project is divided into two related yet separately financed segments, organized by floors, and units. By simultaneously securing both 9% and 4% LIHTC allocations, the hybrid method enhances the project’s financial feasibility, especially for larger scale developments. The Chicago Housing Authority provided rental assistance for 55 of the 89 units. Leopardo was proud to work closely with the Latin United Community Housing (LUCHA), as well as LIHTC syndicator National Equity Fund and construction and permanent lender BMO Harris Bank, to deliver the project. Thanks to its deep roots and extensive experience serving as a general contractor in the Chicago market, Leopardo has relationships with minority- and women-owned general contractors and subcontractors. With deeply rooted family values and a strong internal culture celebrating diversity, equity, and inclusion, Leopardo revels in the opportunity to work alongside, build up, and learn from minority business enterprises and women business enterprises. Working together with Leopardo, the minority GC partner can build their resume by working on bigger, more complicated projects than they would be able to on their own, and working with a minority GC gives Leopardo the opportunity to work alongside good partners and learn from them as well. All MBE, WEB, and city percentage goals were either met or exceeded on the project.