5920 N Ridge (The Mabel): Zoning Change Request Decision
On Tuesday, April 30, Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth met with representatives of The Mabel at 5920 N Ridge to fully assess the redevelopment plans and negotiate based on community feedback. We are proud to announce that The Mabel and the 48th ward office has agreed to the following:
The zoning change requires 3 affordable units at 60% AMI. In addition, The Mabel has agreed to two additional affordable units at an 80% AMI. The affordable units will be on-site and scattered throughout The Mabel.
Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth also made a note that accessibility and sustainability was at the forefront of the community feedback and priorities. The Mabel has agreed to offer 17 accessible units on the first floor. They also reaffirmed their intentions for all new units to be fully electric.
Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth also encouraged The Mabel to think creatively about the façade of the building, given that it's on a crucial intersection that welcomes you to the community. The Mabel executives are willing to listen to suggestions to their intended façade improvements, and have agreed to allow a mural to be created on one of their walls.
Finally, the Mabel agreed to yearly reporting of the rental rates to stay accountable to their agreements.
Based on these agreements, Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth has decided to support their Type 1 zoning change amendment from C1-2, to B2-5. While the applicant will file for an adjusted zoning change from what was initially requested, the applicant has made it clear that their site plans will conform to the B2-3 zoning change. Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth has drafted a letter of support for the applicant. Read it in full below.
We look forward to bringing an increase housing stock to the ward. Our process is centered on listening to everyone's feedback, regardless of class, background, or affiliation. We will continue to work with developers and community alike to bring more accessible and affordable housing to the 48th ward.
Letter of Support
May 6, 2024
Dear Commissioner Boatright,
I support Envoi’s zoning change request for 5920 N Ridge Ave “The Mabel” from C1-2 to B2-5. The applicant is looking to revitalize this site by redeveloping the vacant retail spaces into rental units, which will bring a much needed housing supply to the community.
The applicant has gone through the 48th ward zoning change/development process and has garnered the support of the community. The applicant has met with the 48th ward office to discuss feedback from the community.
The Mabel and the 48th ward office agreed to the following:
3 affordable units at 60% AMI and 2 affordable units at 80% AMI
17 accessible units on the first floor
All new units to be fully electric
Façade improvements including a mural
Yearly reporting of the rental rates to stay accountable to their agreements
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jorge Iván Soto at jorgeivan@the48thward.org.
Sincerely,
Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth
Alderwoman, 48th Ward