# Celebration of Residential Renovations 2.27.25

- Date: February 27, 2025
- Type: Video
- Length: 39:42
- Topic: Events
- Video: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzNVeVOb6ZQ)
- Transcript: Machine transcription, 5,393 words ([text](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/files/transcripts/youtube/VzNVeVOb6ZQ.txt))
- Mayor: [Brandon Johnson](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor)

## Chapters

- [0:00](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=0) Opening and project overview
- [4:50](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=290) Community and leadership
- [8:32](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=512) City vision for housing
- [15:07](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=907) CHA renewal and transparency
- [19:43](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1183) Board vision and leadership
- [23:29](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1409) Development and collaboration
- [27:13](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1633) Project details and design
- [31:55](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1915) Resident perspective and end

## Description

Mayor Brandon Johnson joins CHA and community leaders to celebrate residential renovations.

## Transcript

[0:00](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=0) Well, good morning, everyone. It is really, really good to see everyone here. My name is Angela Herlock, and I'm the interim CEO for CHA. I'm just really, really happy to be here for this day. This is a celebration of a day. It's a pleasure for us to have all of you here as we celebrate the grand opening of Edith Spurlock-Sampson and the Sheffield Residences. It is a milestone moment for affordable housing in Chicago. Let's give that a round of applause.

[0:32](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=32) I'm going to ask you to get your hands ready. There will be a lot of applauding. There's a lot to celebrate today. I definitely want to thank our – just to tell you a little bit about the project. We often say that it takes a village, right? We use that all the time. But it's so true today because this had to be everyone coming together in collaboration to make this project happen. This project took four years. It's four years in the making, and it's a proof of what a village can accomplish when we work together to create housing that meets both the needs of seniors and families.

[1:09](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=69) I want to especially thank our partners who helped make today a reality. First and foremost, the City of Chicago and our awesome Mayor, Brandon Johnson. Also wanting to acknowledge the Chicago Department of Housing Commissioner, Lissette Castaneda. The Chicago Department of Planning and Development Commissioner, Sierra Boatwright. Would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge our 43rd Ward Alderman, Tim Knudsen.

[1:46](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=106) And, of course, our co-developer partner, Pearl. Co-developer partners, Pearl. And then we can never get anything done without the money people. So we also want to thank our funders, J.P. Morgan Chase and the Illinois Housing Development Authority. And Kristen Foss is here today as well. I also want to acknowledge the commissioners that have made it out to join us today. And so from our board of commissioners, we have our interim chairman, Matthew Brewer, who will be speaking today.

[2:19](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=139) We have Commissioner Malone, Commissioner Washington, Commissioner Harris, and Commissioner Matanke. Absolutely. And then I cannot thank enough our CHA staff. The CHA staff is just, there's not a word to really describe this staff. They are amazing. Their hearts are in the work that we do, and it is why we're able to accomplish the things that we accomplish. Finally, I want to take a moment to express CHA's deep gratitude to our partners,

[2:53](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=173) the U.S. Department of Housing and the Urban Development, HUD for short. Their dedication to expanding affordable housing has remained unwavering. Now more than ever, we thank them for their continued support, and we truly could not do this work without them. As this is the second to the last day before the end of this month, it is especially fitting that we are celebrating this milestone during Black History Month.

[3:23](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=203) For those of you who may not know, Edith Spurlick-Sampson was a trailblazer. She was the first black U.S. representative to NATO, among many other achievements. And today we honor her legacy not just in name, but through action, by creating more housing opportunities in progress for the communities that we serve. There is much to celebrate today. The renovation and opening of more than 400 senior housing units at Edith Spurlock-Sampson and the addition of 80 family units in the Sheffield residences underscores power and potential.

[4:00](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=240) Power and potential of what? Power and potential of collaboration. With this project, we have created an innovative intergenerational housing model that fosters a diverse and inclusive environment. Here, residents of all ages and income levels are supporting one another and enriching each other's lives on a daily basis and strengthening their communities day in and day out. And today is just not a win for the residents of either Spurlock Sampson and the Sheffield Residences.

[4:32](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=272) It's a win for the entire 43rd Ward and the city. And with that, I'd like to introduce Alderman Timothy Knudsen, who will share more about what this achievement means for this community. All right, what a great introduction. Thank you so much. And thank you for all the leadership that's in this room. You know, we're really excited in the 43rd Ward about growing out. out the affordable units of all different kinds that we're doing in this project here

[5:04](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=304) at Edith Spurlock-Sampson and Sheffield Residences is a perfect example of projects that we can scale, you know, hopefully in the 43rd Ward, in a build-out, and I know it's a model for the rest of the city. So again, I want to echo the good morning, and as we're gathering here in February, we're celebrating Black History Month, and as was noted, Edith Spurlock-Sampson was a Black history hero. It's a time to honor the incredible contributions of black leaders in Chicago and

[5:34](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=334) across our nation. It's a time to reflect, learn, and uplift the voices that have shaped our city and our democracy. Today, we celebrate the culmination of a project that began in 2021, right when I was coming into office, so I have to give a lot of accolades to my predecessor, Michelle Smith, who saw the process through before I was here. The Chicago Housing Authority has transformed these residences into a vibrant, mixed-income, multi-generational community. The unique development features an innovative bridge building that, like was said,

[6:08](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=368) adds 80 new family units, and that can't be understated, the importance of those units. As we push out ARO units in private development in the ward, often family units are not what's chosen for financial reasons. We want affordable family units in the ward. We think the ward is a perfect place to be for families. We have great public schools for those families to access, and this project really in multiples increases the number of those family units we have, so we're very grateful. This is in addition to 394 existing units having been meticulously renovated.

[6:42](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=402) I got a note because we have some great residents in the room. It's never an easy process to transition during a renovation, and the residents here were just amazing. They were patient. You know, we tried to work with them from our office to make things a little bit better where we could. Not always easy. Because the moves and the temporary movement while units were getting done was challenging. And I always have to just thank and, you know, give props to CHA for being our partner in that to make sure we're getting a project done and the implementation is done in a way that keeps lives feeling rich and vibrant.

[7:19](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=439) The enhancements here not only provide modern affordable housing, But they also foster a sense of unity and inclusivity among residents of all ages, right? When you attach senior living with family units, we get that perfect package. And for us locally, we've got a great church across the street that's always hosting meals. It's where we host our senior bingo that's a lot of fun. And we're just excited about this pocket. So with that, there's a much more exciting speaker coming after me. So I just want to say that this project and the vision of this project,

[7:51](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=471) It exemplifies the leadership and commitment of Mayor Brandon Johnson. Since taking office, Mayor Johnson has been an advocate for equitable housing and community development. It's no secret that he cares as much about promoting our senior community, making our seniors' lives as rich and vibrant as possible as I or as any of us in this room do. His dedication to creating inclusive spaces where all Chicagoans can thrive is so evident in projects like this one.

[8:22](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=502) So, Mayor, the mic is yours, and thank you. Well, good morning, everyone. Thank you, Alderman, for your leadership. Thank you for that introduction. I am so proud to join all of you today, this transformative day for our beloved city. And I believe that housing is a human right. I truly do, and with the power to transform and strengthen individuals, families, and entire neighborhoods.

[8:55](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=535) But for too long, and for too many Chicagoans, housing stability has been a pipe dream. Addressing Chicago's housing shortage and the need for affordable housing is a top priority of my administration. We are picking up the baton that was passed on to us by countless individuals. Communities throughout our city have an incredible history of struggling for and advocating for fair, affordable housing.

[9:26](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=566) Thank you to our interim CEO who has imbibed the spirit of those that have come before us. And I think about Black History Month and, of course, the most famous Westsider, not me, but Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who chose the city of Chicago as a battleground for fair housing and showed up on the west side of Chicago and North Lawndale to highlight what ultimately became a part of the Chicago Freedom Movement.

[9:58](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=598) Achieving agreements to create more equal housing opportunities for black families in Chicago, and Dr. Keene said it was the first step in a 1,000-mile journey. And while we can see that so much progress has been made since the movement, we are still walking the 1,000-mile journey. Today I'm proud that we are taking several steps forward in the journey to achieve affordable and accessible housing for everyone. And first, we celebrate the grand opening, of course, of these two amazing projects that together create mixed income, affordable, multi-generational, trans-oriented development.

[10:34](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=634) And the CHA has completed extensive renovations of the Edith, Spurlock, Sampson senior apartments, and they completed the construction, of course, of the new Sheffield residences. That journey is a journey that is worthwhile, especially because the development will offer 394 renovated senior apartments and 11 new senior apartments and 80 family apartments. This journey is worthwhile. They represent a total of $168 million invested in housing and invested in our people.

[11:07](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=667) The journey is worthwhile. And these projects are transit-oriented, offering residents convenient access to all that our city has to offer, as well as walkable access to medical offices, grocery stores, retail shops, and parks. And with the renovations, we preserved and enhanced a vital part of the Lincoln Park community and supportive space for Chicago seniors. The renovation and opening of these projects represent CHAs and the city's ongoing commitment to invest in our communities with real housing opportunities.

[11:37](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=697) And as part of that commitment, CHA leadership and I, we are reprioritizing community engagement and transparency and collaboration in the mission to build public housing. In the year of 2025, CHA's year of renewal, wherein we will confront CHA's past challenges head on and recommit to moving forward and moving forward with expediency. A stronger CHA is a stronger Chicago. We are working to maximize the positive impact that CHA has on Chicago to ensure that we are equitably and effectively meeting the needs of residents.

[12:18](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=738) In a few moments, you're going to hear from more people about the steps that are worthwhile in this journey to take more center focus on transparency and accountability. And so those that have hoped for a very long time that public housing and housing can truly become a human right, that we can see progress, we can experience progress, we can feel progress, and most of all, we can live progress. And this will include increased collaboration between CHA and Chicago's Department of Housing, and CHA will play a critical role in the development of the city's five-year housing plan.

[12:55](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=775) Progress moves at the speed of trust. And by instilling trust and confidence in CHA, we will be able to show a more dynamic vision and a stronger future for all people to access housing opportunities. This work, it will take some time. As Dr. King said, the fight for housing is a 1,000-mile journey, but a journey worthwhile. while. I'm encouraged today by the spirit of collaboration and the energy that is shared in this room, the city of Chicago, CHA, our faith community, and all of the stakeholders here

[13:30](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=810) to partner in this moment. Together, we are ready to renew CHA for the future and collaboratively building and preserving and enhancing affordable housing across this beautiful city. I want to thank CHA leadership, and again, including our CEO, our interim CEO, Angela. Angela, you've done an amazing job in this short period of time. And here's how I know that you're doing a great job, is because when the senior advocates who are part of the leadership of CHA, when I was first

[14:04](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=844) mayor and I would come into their presence, they would frown at me. And all of them smiled today, so thank you. And they're still smiling. But I do really want to thank our partners and developers who have preserved and built this Edith Edith Spurlock, Samson Senior Apartments, and the Sheffield Residences, including co-developer and everyone who played a part, including the Illinois Housing Authority. Thank you all so much, and I do want to thank some other people, just David and Janina and Crusita and Robert Dixon.

[14:38](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=878) Thank you all for all that you have done. Today is truly a celebration. I look forward to the citywide collaboration on unifying our vision in Chicago that will ultimately benefit all of the people of Chicago. And so now, again, thank you all for your leadership and your hard work. And with that, I believe the next person is we're going to bring back. Is that right? Yes. So with that, Angela Herlock. Thank you, Mayor. He is so right that a stronger CHA...

[15:12](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=912) Riley, somebody say that. He is very right that a stronger CHA does mean a stronger city of Chicago. I think most of you here know that CHA is the third largest public housing authority in the nation. That's huge shoulders. CHA plays a critical role in expanding access to affordable housing for families here in Chicago, and we're making significant strides to fulfill and strengthen our commitment to Chicago.

[15:44](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=944) In fact, today's grand opening is the third such event that we've had in the past two weeks alone, after the campus at Leland Plaza, which we had yesterday, and in Quencho Square last weekend. And there is much more on the horizon. We know that CHA has also been in the news a lot lately. We recognize that change invites conversation and questions. It's no secret that CHA is undergoing a significant transition, and that one starts from within.

[16:17](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=977) We're reviewing our structure, our operations, and communication to ensure that we meet the needs of residents more effectively and equitably. This means addressing past challenges about transparency and accountability, strengthening oversight and resident engagement, and making more data and key information accessible through our newly redesigned website. We are considering, as mentioned by the mayor, 2025 to be CHA's year of renewal.

[16:47](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1007) And this year is all about being intentional as well as inclusive as we amplify key stakeholders' voices and begin to rebuild the trust through openness, collaboration, and long-term strategic planning. Transparency is not just our goal, it's our commitment. And as we move forward, we will be inviting open dialogue, feedback, and collaboration to ensure our residents, that is our most valuable capital, is our residents. Stakeholders and the public feel informed, heard, and engaged in our work.

[17:21](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1041) We are actively improving communication with residents and will launch a comprehensive all-resident survey this spring to gather direct feedback that will shape CHA's future policies, programs, and our operations. This is the first time in recent memory that the agency has conducted a survey of this scale and scope, and we're looking forward to having a more active dialogue with residents now and continually in the future. We're also implementing changes that strengthen our oversight and accountability,

[17:52](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1072) particularly in our property operations and our asset management department. We've created a new department of healthy homes to proactively address environmental concerns that exist within our properties and are currently hiring a director for that team. We are also improving the way we worked with our private property management firms now and in the future. If you don't know, we recently issued an RFP to identify new partners, which will make more opportunities available to local and community-based organizations.

[18:23](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1103) This will mean more accountability from our partners and better service for our residents. Additionally, our redesigned website will serve as a centralized data and impact hub, making critical information publicly accessible about operational oversight, development updates, strategic planning, and much, much more. As Mayor Johnson mentioned, we are strengthening the collaboration between the CHA and the City of Chicago's Department of Housing, with CHA playing a critical role in the development of the City's next five-year housing plan.

[18:56](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1136) Our shared vision is about more than just today, this day. It's about using this moment of transition to lay the groundwork for a stronger, more equitable future. And true change, just as the mayor mentioned, he was right again, it takes time. But we are committed to using this moment to position CHA to be the best possible self it could be. Of course, a critical part of that future is identifying the right leadership to guide CHA forward.

[19:28](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1168) And with that, I'd like to introduce our interim board chair for the CHA, Matthew Brewer, who will share more updates on our CEO search. Thank you, Angela. And before I start, I just want to give a round of applause to everyone who was involved in making this moment possible. It's a beautiful space. And thank you, Angela, for everything you do.

[19:59](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1199) The Board of Commissioners, some who are here, deeply appreciate your leadership and the commitment of the entire CHA team. Our efforts to support residents and uphold the CHA's mission are more important than ever, especially at this defining moment in the agency's history. And indeed, we are at a defining moment, especially when you consider all the economic and political headwinds we're facing. Rising housing challenges, shifting national policies, a post-pandemic economy,

[20:35](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1235) and more close to home, a significant leadership transition ahead. But these challenges also represent an incredible opportunity to renew our vision. Angela mentioned, and the mayor also mentioned, the year of renewal. 2025 is the year of renewal. The first step into finding that renewed vision is identifying the next leader who guides us forward. Selecting our next CEO is not a task we take lightly. To ensure a thorough and inclusive selection process, we've formed a diverse search committee

[21:11](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1271) that includes CHA board members, resident leadership, and government partners. We've also engaged a highly experienced executive search firm to conduct a national search. The process is well underway, and we expect the job description to be publicly posted in the very near future with a goal of having our new CEO in place by the middle of the year. The transition, though, is about more than just selecting a new CEO. It's about shaping the future of CHA for the people who rely on us.

[21:47](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1307) Residents deserve a leader who understands their needs, listens to their concerns, and champions safe, stable, and affordable housing. That's why, as we welcome a new CEO, we'll also launch a long-term strategic planning initiative in alignment with the work being done through the city's five-year housing plan. More than a roadmap, our strategic planning is a promise to our residents, stakeholders, and communities that CHA is committed to building a stronger, more vibrant future.

[22:19](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1339) As we continue this important work, we recognize that our transparency and accessibility are key. Our stakeholders need to see that the CHA is committed to accountability and to creating a strong, sustainable vision that ensures the long-term success of our programs and housing developments. To that end, we are making resources and announcements, quarterly progress reports available on our website, in the data hub, in the impact hub, encourage everyone to stay engaged.

[22:50](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1370) But the heart of this work isn't in reports or updates. It's in the lives transformed by developments like this one. It's about the seniors finding security, families putting down roots, and the community that flourishes when we invest in inclusive housing solutions. Now, let's hear from the people who helped make this vision a reality and continue to drive meaningful change. First, please welcome Illinois Housing Development Authority Executive Director Kristen Faust, who will share more about her collaboration and the role in this development.

[23:29](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1409) Thank you, Matthew, and good morning. Good morning. So I'd like to start by thanking Mayor Johnson and the Chicago City Council, particularly Alderman Knudsen, Angela Herlock, the amazing Angela Herlock and the staff at CHA, Pearl Developers, and everyone who's been working for years to bring more affordable housing and particularly this development for families and older adults to Lincoln Park. I also especially want to recognize resident Ms. Evelyn Glover and her neighbors for hosting us this morning.

[24:06](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1446) As you heard, my name is Kristen Faust. I'm the Executive Director of the Illinois Housing Development Authority, also called IDA, and I bring you tidings and congratulations. Congratulations on behalf of Governor J.B. Pritzker, the Ida Board, and our staff. I am so pleased we could all be here today to celebrate this amazing achievement. It seems to be in vogue these days to disrespect public servants, but not in Illinois.

[24:44](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1484) I know the mayor is with me, and we didn't even talk about this. In Illinois, we respect and acknowledge everyone, and I am especially proud to acknowledge several of the IDA staffs who worked so hard on this development that are here today. Catherine Matcom, our multifamily underwriter manager, Aaron Mina and client services team, and Brittany Jones, also on client services. Just raise your hand if you could. They've worked so hard to make this happen.

[25:17](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1517) And they and others at IDA and those others in this room are the ones responsible. At IDA, we underwrote and delivered the complex packages of bond financing, mortgage loans, tax credits, all the pieces that have to come together, this collaboration you heard about that it takes to make this kind of development happen. And that's what we do at IDA all the time, all year long, in every county across the state. We are committed to decent, safe, and affordable housing for everybody in communities that they are proud to call home.

[25:49](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1549) So it's been our mission for a long time to do that. We're especially happy to be doing it here today, today with our partners like CHA, the City of Chicago, Pearl Developers, here right here in Lincoln Park, a community rich in amenities, as we call them. What are amenities? Green space, good schools, good health care, bingo, transit, you know. And so it is so important that we continue to build and place more affordable housing in these amenity-rich communities.

[26:22](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1582) And by the way, we have 900 units now just in this zip code. And I want to say it's important because it's a community, like a lot of places across the state and country, rents have gone up 25% in five years. So, like, the pressures are strong against people being able to find a decent place to live. That's why I'd just like to conclude we are so pleased to be part of Edith Spurlock-Sampson and Sheffield Residences, this amazing urban development, putting a brand-new building between two existing ones,

[26:52](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1612) creating this amazing multigenerational community. Thank you so much for allowing us to be here today, and thank you so much to everybody here who made it happen, and particularly the residents who championed this every step of the way. We're going to bring up Pearl Development, who led the way.

[27:22](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1642) Good morning. I'm thrilled to be here. I'm Joanna Casanova, Senior Vice President of Development for Pearl Developers. As Angela and Kristen mentioned, And this moment marks the culmination of years of hard work, planning, and resilience, a project I've had the privilege of working on from the very beginning with our amazing partners, many of which are here today. From the initial vision to overcoming challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic,

[27:57](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1677) we have persevered because our mission has always been clear, to create a home where multiple generations can live, thrive, and grow. The Eddie Spurlow-Sampson apartment is a remarkable multicultural community here in Lincoln Park, one of Chicago's most vibrant neighborhoods, offering, as many as mentioned, a mix of cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities. Its excellent access to public transportation made this a truly transit-oriented development

[28:33](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1713) with everything residents need within walking distance. The goal of the redevelopment was to provide residents with spaces for community, connection, and activities to support healthy living. We're sitting today on what was once a parking lot, now transformed into this beautiful building. One that brings people together. It features not only amenity spaces for family, like where we're here gathering today.

[29:06](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1746) It also has many multi-purpose rooms that serve as gathering place for our seniors, neighbors, hosting movie nights, gardening, fitness, and other wellness activities. The main room that you will tour later accommodates up to 200 residents and includes programming from the City of Chicago Golden Diner. It has been a joy of me to sit in that room and see all the neighbors talking, enjoying the safe, playing bingo.

[29:38](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1778) It also functions as a vital cooling and heating center for our community. The sixth story, if you've heard, the building includes 80 new residences for families of all income levels. Additionally, we have renovated 384 senior apartments, added 11 senior units, for a total of almost 485 residences across three buildings connected by bridges so that our residents don't have to go outside during the winter.

[30:16](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1816) By expanding community and supportive spaces alongside mixed-income housing, we are fostering truly an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. This development, have you heard, is one of its kind, and we hope it will serve as a model for senior and family residences across the city. Here you can have people aging in place. This project wouldn't have been possible without the hard work of our partners. I must mention many of them again.

[30:46](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1846) The CHA, the City of Chicago, HUD, IDA, JPMorgan Chase, we've made a significant large investment we're so grateful for, Boston Financial, IFF, Racial Architects, Leopardo Ujama Construction, Leasing and Management, HOU, and many others. and, of course, our residents, who many endure living here during our Occupy Rehab process, which was a multi-year construction process.

[31:20](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1880) They are our true heroes. This is your home, your community, and your future. As we caught the ribbon today, we're not just opening a building. We're opening doors to new opportunities, stronger connections, and a brighter future for our residents. On behalf of our team and partners, I'm very excited to welcome you to the Eddie Spirla Samson Apartments and the new Sheffield Residences. Thank you.

[31:54](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1914) And of course, the best speaker, here we're introducing you to our resident, Evelyn Glover. Good morning. Good morning. This is a great day and a wonderful occasion. My name is Pastor Evelyn Glover, and I'm a resident of Edith's Furlough Sampson Apartment. First, myself, on behalf of the residents and myself, we would like to welcome and thank our wonderful mayor.

[32:39](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1959) Mr. Mayor, thank you for everything that you do for the city of Chicago, and personally, we love you. I'm coming back tomorrow. Oh, please, please do and enjoy some of these amenities we have over here. To CHA, thank you for creating and maintaining the strong community that we live in. Thank you, Ms. Angela. Thank you, Mr. Matthew. Thank you, Ms. Kristen Foss. Thank you, the Board of Commissions, and thank you, Pearl.

[33:14](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=1994) We'd like to thank Pearl. It's because it's a full-service developer, and we thank it for its tenacity to foster and partner with CHA from concept to completion of this multifamily affordable and workforce housing project. Thank you. We thank God for the management team, Ms. Nicole, Mr. Mike, for securing a safe sanctuary and engaging us residents.

[33:52](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=2032) We'd like to thank, again, our 43rd Ward Alderman, Mr. Timmy Knudson. We'd like to thank St. George's Greek Orthodox Church for providing nutritious, hot, and delicious meals for us all year long. Again, I'm a resident of Edith Spurlock. I'm a licensed minister. I'm a licensed cosmetologist. I'm a certified food service manager that's holding that certification for 30 plus years.

[34:29](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=2069) I am a member of Ada Zai Sigma Gamma Row Incorporate. I'm a Philo affiliate. I came to Edith Spurlock in 2014. My first studio apartment was at 2640 North Shedfield in that first tower, the apartment 910. I was thrilled to have a place to live. A place in this community that's safe, right next to the lakefront

[35:01](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=2101) Come on, all these beautiful, wonderful things down here I came from the west side I wasn't used to nothing like this Come on somebody, hey But I was later notified that I was eligible for a one bedroom apartment In the next tower, 2720, on the 11th floor And mind you, we around here called the 11th floor our penthouse.

[35:32](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=2132) They would relocate us. That's another thing. I wasn't used to being relocated and then them paying for it, man. Come on, somebody. Then in 2019, the project for the renovation of the existing buildings and to erect a nuke structure, it was a process move, set my imagination on fire. Now, as the dust began to clear, I was relocated back to 2640 North Shetfield

[36:08](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=2168) in the penthouse again on the 11th floor. And why? I'm happy because Edith Sporlock Sampson's apartment has brought joy to me. I love the amenities. We have renovated apartments. We have new community spaces for current and future residents. We have an exterior courtyard. We have a community dining room. We have living rooms, recreation rooms, a gardening lounge. We have two huge laundry rooms.

[36:40](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=2200) We have game rooms. We have billboards. We got a gym with cardio weight rooms. Let's do another round of applause. So today, I definitely want to thank Ms. Evelyn, because we've heard a lot today.

[37:20](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=2240) We've heard about perseverance. We've heard about tenacity. We've heard about imaginations being set on fire, opening doors to new opportunities, and bringing joy to residents. Those are inspiring words. And I just want to say a very big thank you to all of the residents for your patience and cooperation over the past few years. We are so glad that we could do this project for you. With all of these partners, welcome home.

[37:51](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=2271) Every partner here today is part of a mission that extends far beyond just this moment. Your present reflects a shared commitment to equity, dignity, and opportunity for all. And that CHAR mission is not just about housing, it's about people. It's about ensuring that families have a place to build their future, that seniors have a place to thrive, and that communities have a foundation to grow strong together. Today is a testament to that mission in action, and it's a celebration of what we can achieve when we work

[38:21](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=2301) together to create lasting change. I'm truly grateful to share this milestone with all of you. I want to, again, take a point in time to just say Thank you to the awesome CHA staff. Without your work, this would not be possible. So let's make it official. Please join me downstairs for the ribbon cutting. We will be headed just down the block to the main entrance of this building,

[38:52](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=2332) and there are volunteers that are able to direct you. We're going to, I believe, let the camera folks go first. There's only two elevators, and there's many, many of us. so if you would just kind of mingle around and we'll take people down in stages but there will be volunteers available to direct you following the ribbon cutting anyone who is interested is welcome to come back inside to the main lobby for guided tours of this fabulous place

[39:23](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ?t=2363) so please stay and just continue to celebrate with us thank you so much for being with us today

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Source: https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/VzNVeVOb6ZQ · Chicago Politics, an independent tracker of the Chicago City Council. Guide for agents: https://www.chicagopolitics.org/llms.txt