Chicago: Mayor Brandon Johnson, Ald. Lawson Pass Citywide ADU Expansion, Increasing Affordable Housing Availability
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CHICAGO ~ Chicago Takes Major Step Towards Affordable Housing with Expansion of Additional Dwelling Units

In a move to address the urgent need for more affordable housing in Chicago, Mayor Brandon Johnson and Alderman Bennett Lawson (44th) have successfully led the passage of Ordinance SO2024-0008918. This ordinance legalizes the construction of additional dwelling units (ADUs) citywide, marking a major milestone in Mayor Johnson's efforts to provide affordable housing options for all Chicagoans.

During a press conference, Mayor Johnson stated, "Today we take a critical step forward in our mission to ensure every Chicagoan has access to a decent, affordable home." He emphasized that by expanding ADUs to communities across the city, they are increasing housing availability and driving sustainable neighborhood investment. However, he also acknowledged that there is still work to be done and promised to continue pushing for necessary reforms and community investments to make "housing as a human right" a reality for all residents. The mayor also expressed his gratitude towards Alderman Lawson for his leadership and commitment to this measure.

Mayor Johnson has made it clear that he is committed to pursuing every possible avenue to spur affordable housing construction in response to the nationwide housing crisis. The newly passed ordinance allows for increased flexibility with ADUs by legalizing both internal conversions (basement and attic units) and detached coach houses. It also eliminates spacing and permitting requirements that often slow down construction. This measure is expected to boost the housing supply and increase access to stable, affordable housing for working Chicagoans.

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Alderman Bennett Lawson shared his thoughts on the historic policy, stating, "On my first day as Alderman, I introduced an ordinance to authorize ADUs citywide because I believe Chicago needs bold, creative solutions to meet our housing crisis head-on." He also highlighted the input from residents, developers, and labor partners in shaping this equitable approach that balances affordability, neighborhood preservation, and workforce development.

Under the reform, ADUs will be legalized by right in all non-single-family residential, business, and commercial zoning districts. In single-family residential districts, ADUs will be allowed in parts of the city that opt-in. All neighborhoods that were part of the ADU pilot program are immediately opted in, with the possibility of future expansion through further council action. This will more than double the number of ADU-eligible housing parcels to 245,000 from approximately 116,000 currently authorized under the pilot program.

The ordinance is a result of open dialogue and cooperation between City leaders, labor unions, and community stakeholders. Lessons learned from the pilot program were taken into consideration to shape an equitable approach that benefits working Chicagoans. The measure ensures that every second ADU built on the same property must be rented at an affordable rate. Additionally, the Department of Housing (DOH) has been authorized to establish grant programs to assist low- and moderate-income households with their housing costs and support property owners who commit to developing ADUs for low- and moderate-income tenants.

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Commissioner Lissette Castañeda expressed her support for this expansion, stating, "In the midst of a national housing supply crisis, cities like Chicago must lead with smart, scalable solutions." She emphasized that ADUs are flexible and community-centered housing options that meet families where they are. They also allow homeowners to build stability, support loved ones, and invest in their communities without displacing residents or reshaping neighborhoods.

Mayor Johnson has made affordable housing a top priority in his administration's strategy to make Chicago more affordable for working people. He plans to continue pursuing reforms through his "Cut the Tape" initiative which aims to streamline development processes and make it easier to build new housing throughout the city.

With this new ordinance in effect, Chicago is taking a major step towards addressing its urgent need for more affordable housing options. The expansion of ADUs is expected to not only increase the housing supply but also provide opportunities for working Chicagoans to have stable and affordable homes.

Filed Under: Government, City

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