100% Minority and Women-Owned team to construct “Galleria 89,” a mixed-use residential and commercial development at the northwestern corner of Commercial Ave & 89th Street.

CHICAGO, IL – Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot with the Department of Planning and Development announced “Galleria 89” Led by 548 Development’s Coalition as the winner of the South Chicago site for the City of Chicago’s $750 million INVEST South/West initiative. With over 43,000 square feet of solar powered housing and 12,000 square feet of retail and amenity space, Galleria 89 will serve as a new landmark hub that generates foot traffic and economic development for the South Chicago community. 

"One of my highest priorities is bringing intentional, sustainable developments and catalytic investments to our South and West Side communities that have been left behind for too long," said Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot. "Thanks to partners like Syzygy Cities, our vacant buildings and lots can be filled quickly with projects that strengthen and revitalize our neighborhoods. I commend and thank 548 Development Coalition for their inclusivity and their thoughtfulness in commerce and energy efficient models creating longstanding positive impacts in our City."

“548 Development was started with the mission to bring innovative and sustainable technologies to underserved communities that are usually overlooked,” said Robert “AJ” Patton, Founder of 548 Development. “We are excited to bring solar powered housing to South Chicago, with 45 units of both affordable and market-rate housing. We look forward to breaking ground on this South Side project and continuing our mission on Commercial Ave.” 

Designed by Rivetna Architects, Galleria 89 is a modern take on Steel City architecture, marrying the old and new with modern rich burgundy brick, steel, and glass. The ground floors provide a contemporary retail space, while an open-air plaza will serve as a community gathering space for indoor/outdoor programming. Local visual arts nonprofit SkyART will feature original artwork throughout the development, including dedicated spots for focal point murals, and interior space for rotating galleries. 

“Thoughtful and relevant programming is crucial to activating streetscapes and garnering foot traffic,” said Rachel Vass, CEO of program development partner Syzygy Cities. “The businesses and services we’ve engaged for the South Chicago site will bring much needed resources and amenities to this community, and provide a catalyst for economic growth, building generational wealth and community pride.” 

The development will be anchored by Chicago’s own Dollop Coffee Co., who has committed to hiring locally and donating a portion of each coffee sale into a fund that will go towards funding projects in the space. The connected cafe space will provide residents with a place to gather, and high speed internet access to help bridge the digital divide. Additionally, a business center will offer professional services and resources such as basic print and copy along with packing and shipping.

“If this neighborhood is to have a chance to take advantage of sustainable options, they must also have the infrastructure available to do so,” AJ Patton said. In addition to solar panels and cost saving energy efficient building techniques, EVMatch will power a flexible, book-by-app communal electric vehicle charger so residents can pay for their own electricity at 30-60% cheaper than other options.

The 100% minority and women-owned businesses that form the 548 Development Coalition include woman-owned programming partner Syzygy Cities; Chicago’s largest African-American owned engineering firm, Milhouse Engineering & Construction; Black-owned Engage Civil and Gold Leaf Capital Partners; and Rivetna Architects, a minority and LGBT+ owned design firm. 

Additional community integration support will come through a partnership with neighboring Pilsen Wellness Center, an organization doing work in human services, including addiction and mental health support. Their internationally sourced bilingual therapists will have reserved residential units right next door to their facility.

“The combination of these programs will help ensure that this development is not only a part of the community but helps propel the community forward,” said AJ Patton, noting that this winning proposal is just the first step towards bringing Galleria 89 to life. “We look forward to engaging with local business owners, community organizers and budding entrepreneurs from South Chicago and beyond who may be interested in filling out our remaining ground-floor commercial space.” 

If you or someone you know has a business or service that could have a future in Galleria 89,  or for more information about program development at this and/or other Chicagoland developments, reach out to alexis@syzygycities.com.