Historic Cabrini Green Site Transformation Accelerates with New Community Spaces in Near North

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Near North · October 17, 2025

The transformation of the former Cabrini Green housing projects on Chicago's Near North Side is making significant progress as construction ramps up this fall. The Chicago Housing Authority's ambitious redevelopment plan, which began earlier this year, enters a new phase with additional community features breaking ground this month.

The development is part of the city's Central Area Plan 2045, which focuses on making the Near North Side a more vibrant urban space with increased emphasis on cultural events, more housing options, expanded retail, and improved community amenities. The plan aims to create a more interconnected neighborhood that honors the area's history while building for its future.

Residents can explore some of the area's architectural and cultural gems during the upcoming Open House Chicago on October 18-19, which will showcase historically and culturally significant sites across the city, including several in the Near North community. This free event, celebrating its 15th year, is expected to draw tens of thousands of visitors eager to explore spaces that are rarely open to the public. Community leaders encourage neighbors to participate and discover the evolving character of the Near North Side as it continues its remarkable transformation.

Sources:
1. https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/01/09/chicago-development-projects-2025
2. https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/new-plan-20-years-development-downtown-chicago/
3. https://chicago.suntimes.com/architecture-design/2025/09/17/open-house-chicago-2025-sites-chicago-architecture-center