Chicago – The Community Builders (TCB) along with Chicago Alderman Matt Martin, other city, community and project partners celebrated the grand opening of Canvas at Leland Plaza. This new Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD) at 4713 N. Western Avenue provides 63 affordable apartments, commercial spaces and public parking at an exceptional North Side location creating a stronger gateway to Lincoln Square’s vibrant commercial district.
“I am thrilled to see the completion of this transformational project in the heart of Lincoln Square,” said Alderman Matt Martin, 47th Ward. “This development was the subject of years of discussion and negotiation, and I am grateful for our neighborhood’s resident and business communities coming together behind a proposal that will benefit everyone involved. The added homes and commercial space will allow Lincoln Square to remain the thriving, inclusive, and welcoming community we know and love.”
The newly constructed mixed-use building contains 63 thoughtfully designed affordable apartments for a range of lower- and moderate-income households, while also providing well-positioned commercial space with outdoor seating and parking to serve local businesses and building residents. TCB has worked to ensure that project details large and small – from the program to masonry details – strengthen Lincoln Square as a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood.
“Transit-oriented housing developments are crucial to advancing our mission at the Department of Housing. By enhancing mobility within communities, we create more opportunities for residents to thrive and support local businesses,” said Lissette Castañeda, Housing Commissioner. “The Department of Housing was proud to provide funding to this development that ensures these opportunities for quality and affordable housing are available for decades to come.”
For the intersection of Western and Leland Avenue, the addition of Canvas serves as a gateway entry to the existing small business corridor along Lincoln Avenue. The development design organizes a program of vital community assets into a single contemporary building, taking cues from Lincoln Square’s rich architectural heritage.
“CHA is proud to be providing funding for 16 of the apartments at the Canvas at Leland Plaza through our Project-Based Voucher program. That’s an investment of more than $13.3 million over the next 30 years. From day one, this development has been a community-driven effort,“ said Angela Hurlock, Interim CEO, Chicago Housing Authority. “Through numerous public meetings, The Community Builders and Ald. Martin engaged with residents and local businesses—not just to propose a development, but to listen, collaborate, and build consensus. This deep partnership with communities helps create housing that truly meets the needs of Chicagoans.”
The homes at Canvas at Leland Plaza include multiple amenities, such as package and bike rooms, ample storage space, and energy efficient appliances. For community interaction, a dedicated lounge provides space for resident gatherings, while a terrace offers overlooking views of Lincoln Square’s beloved weekly and annual community events along Leland Avenue.
“Canvas at Leland Plaza will now demonstrate that mixed-use affordable housing can make strong communities even stronger,” said Will Woodley, regional vice president of real estate development for The Community Builders.
Financial partners include the City of Chicago, the Chicago Housing Authority, CIBC, Stratford Capital Group, Benefit Chicago and ComEd. The architect is DesignBridge. The General Contractor is Leopardo Construction and KMW Communities.
Event photos are available upon request.