A major revitalization effort is underway in South Chicago, where a long-awaited affordable housing project will soon begin construction. On Saturday, May 31, 2025, Mayor Johnson is expected to join community leaders and development partners to break ground on the SACRED Apartments, a five-story building that represents the largest housing investment in the neighborhood in two decades.
Located at 9212 South Burley Avenue, the SACRED Apartments—short for Sustainable Affordable Commercial Real Estate Development—will bring 81 affordable housing units and 6,000 square feet of retail space to the area. The project aims to address the city’s growing demand for quality, income-restricted housing while also offering new opportunities for local businesses and residents.
“We are proud to break ground on a development in South Chicago that reflects our commitment to equity, affordability, and inclusive economic growth,” said Mayor Johnson in a statement ahead of the groundbreaking ceremony. “SACRED represents the kind of bold, community-led investment that will help make Chicago the safest and most affordable big city in America.”
The mixed-use development is being led by Claretian Associates in partnership with Interfaith Housing Development Corporation. The property will be managed by Interfaith Management Services, while Claretian Associates and Villa Guadalupe Senior Services will provide onsite resident services.
Designed with families in mind, the building will include a range of unit sizes—from studios to four-bedroom apartments. Seventeen of the 81 units will be reserved for formerly homeless individuals. All units will be affordable for households earning between 30 and 60 percent of the area median income (AMI).
Beyond housing, the SACRED project is envisioned as a catalyst for neighborhood transformation. It anchors the “Working Together to Reinvigorate South Chicago” strategy, a $65 million vision that includes new arts centers, senior housing, single-family homes, and the repurposing of a former YMCA facility into a wellness hub. Although initially developed as a submission for the Pritzker Chicago Prize, the comprehensive plan is moving forward with independent funding.
“We’re not waiting for rescue—we’re building the future ourselves,” said Angela Hurlock, Chief Executive Officer of Claretian Associates. “SACRED is proof that community vision, when honored and resourced, becomes community power.”
Renderings of the development show wide corridors, landscaped gathering areas, a community room, and modern interior finishes. Additional amenities will include in-unit laundry, energy-efficient appliances, a lobby lounge, ADA-accessible units, and a landscaped yard.
The building’s 6,000 square feet of retail space—located along 92nd Street—is expected to serve as a grocery café hybrid aimed at improving food access and supporting local workforce development. Several small businesses have already expressed interest in leasing the space, according to the developers.
To support the transformation of the surrounding area, the SACRED site will also receive $1.4 million in public infrastructure improvements. These upgrades will enhance pedestrian safety, streetscapes, and green space, further strengthening the project’s connection to the community.
“Although it took many years of twists and turns to reach this point, Interfaith is thrilled to convert a blighted site into quality housing,” said Perry Vietti, President of Interfaith Housing Development Corporation. “SACRED will house over 150 people while acting as a catalyst for neighborhood transformation.”
The development is located near Metra and CTA transit lines, offering residents convenient access to jobs, schools, and services throughout the city. Construction is expected to be completed by fall 2026, with full occupancy projected by winter of the same year.
As South Chicago continues its comeback, the SACRED Apartments stand as a symbol of what is possible when community-driven vision and public investment come together. For a neighborhood long overlooked in the city’s growth narrative, SACRED marks a new chapter—one defined by dignity, design, and determination.