We seem to have developers who want to build in the Fifth Ward.
However, I understand that some residents do not see the benefits of these projects. I want to take this opportunity to highlight there is a project approval process using Mt. Pisgah as an example.
Mt. Pisgah’s plans for a Fifth Ward church expansion and affordable housing development at the corner of Church and Darrow will enhance the 5th Ward.
The corner of Church Street and Darrow Avenue, one of the gateways into Evanston, will offer affordable housing to residents in a newly constructed 44-unit, five-story affordable housing project next door to an expanded Mt. Pisgah. For years, this section of town has not received the care and attention it deserves to be considered a highlight in our community.
Years ago, another housing project was considered for that location, but it was struck down at the last minute by a few neighbors who said no to change.
If this wasn’t enough, we have 300 houseless District 65 families living in and around the Evanston community. It means we have families whose children go to school here, but they cannot afford to live here. Our students and their families live in shelters or sleep on the couches at friends’ and family members’ homes.
I encourage all neighbors to get involved by taking a seat at the table. We may not agree on the solution, but it is important to have you share your opinion. It’s very ineffective to weigh in with criticism after the project has been decided on or not. Learn more here.
Janet Alexander Davis
Your neighbor
Thank you Ms. Alexander Davis for your comments. This reminds me of 2005 when funding had been secured for a development at that corner and then it didn’t get the needed votes.
That space has been vacant for years and the “NO” people keep saying “NO”.
When will do what is right and make it possible for low income people to live in Evanston?
Delores A. Holmes
dholmes0421@gmail.com
They do live in Evanston, specifically in the 5th ward! The 5th ward is segregated with affordable housing what is the 5th ward a cage for low income families! What happened to the rest of Evanston there should be affordable housing everywhere in Evanston! We shouldn’t settle for one corner just because Evanston said so!
There plenty of empty land in other wards they can build on, but they choose to pick on the small people not on the big bucks in wards like the 6th ward!
Let’s tell all the truth now!
First of all the site they planned to build on is contaminated.
Secondly HODC is the managing group of this building and they have a bad tract record. Check out one of there buildings near by 319 Dempster St, from drugs to dead bodies among many crimes!
Third A church for 200 people and no parking, with many other churches already surrounding us is this necessary!
Fourth HODC can’t prioritize Evanston residents is first come first serve is on there website!
Fifth why is Evanston gifting a land worth about 1 million dollars to wealthy rich company
And finally the pastor himself said he don’t have the funds to build the church. Which he needs to have within a year according the land commission. Yeah I don’t see that happening considering his church now isn’t in that great of shape!