Historic Indigenous-Focused Housing Project 'Jigzibik' Takes Root in Irving Park

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Irving Park · November 3, 2025

Irving Park residents witnessed a historic moment last month as Chicago's first Native American-focused affordable housing development officially broke ground at 2907 W. Irving Park Road. Mayor Brandon Johnson joined Ald. Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez, U.S. Rep. Delia Ramirez, and other officials for a ceremonial blessing of the site led by Indigenous community members.

Unlike typical groundbreakings, the ceremony highlighted Indigenous practices with grass dancing performed by Negwes White of the Ojibwe and Navaho tribes, accompanied by the Oka Homma drum group. The seven-story development, named Jigzibik (meaning "at the river's edge" in Potawatomi), will feature 45 affordable apartments, including three units reserved as permanent supportive housing for individuals transitioning from homelessness. Community amenities will include a rooftop garden, art and maker space, fitness facilities, and culturally sensitive social services.

The $34 million project stands out among Chicago's affordable housing developments through its culturally expressive design, incorporating Indigenous history, customs, and traditional colors. Residents will enjoy balconies oriented for cultural practices, community gathering spaces, and architectural elements that reflect Native American traditions. Neighbors interested in learning more about this transformative project, expected to be completed in the second half of next year, can visit the development site or contact the partnering organizations: Full Circle Communities and Visionary Ventures.

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/07/11/indigenous-leaders-bless-irving-park-land-for-citys-1st-affordable-housing-for-native-americans/
2. https://chicago.suntimes.com/architecture-design/2025/07/18/native-american-history-design-shapes-34-million-irving-park-affordable-housing-development
3. https://www.multihousingnews.com/jigzibik-chicagos-1st-native-american-focused-affordable-housing-project/