It's Official: Avondale's California Avenue Development Clears Plan Commission with a Unanimous Vote

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Avondale · May 24, 2026

Bricktown's long-vacant California Avenue lot just cleared a major hurdle. The Chicago Plan Commission voted unanimously Thursday to approve the $65 million mixed-use development proposed for 3231–65 N. California Ave. — a significant milestone for a project that has been shaped, step by step, by the Avondale community itself.

The approved plan calls for 105 housing units: 40 three-story townhomes and a five-story building with 65 apartments, including 21 affordable units — many of them family-sized. The city's Department of Planning and Development signaled its full support at Thursday's hearing, saying the project promotes an economic boost to the area and aligns with urban design standards. Commission Chair Laura Flores, a former neighbor of the site, summed up the room's mood: "I am excited to see something go up here … and it's right by the river, so residents will be able to enjoy that." The project also has the backing of Ald. Anthony Quezada (35th), and now heads to the zoning committee and full City Council for final approval — with developers estimating a completion target of early 2027 if the Council signs off.

For Avondale neighbors who showed up to two community meetings, raised concerns, and pushed for a better project, this vote is proof that civic engagement in Bricktown moves the needle. Stay plugged in through Ald. Quezada's office and the Avondale Neighborhood Association's channels as this project heads toward its final City Council vote.

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/05/22/avondale-townhome-apartment-development-approved-by-plan-commission/
2. https://chicago.suntimes.com/real-estate/2026/05/21/plan-commission-approves-300-residential-units-west-side