Rogers Park Scores Big Win for Affordable Housing: 80-Unit Development Approved for Howard Street Corridor

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Rogers Park · August 16, 2026

Rogers Park neighbors, the Far North Side just cleared a major milestone on its path to a more vibrant, accessible future. The Chicago Plan Commission has approved the Werner Bros. redevelopment at 7603 N. Paulina Street — a bold new project that will bring 80 fully affordable residential units and fresh retail space to the neighborhood's Howard Street corridor.

Here's what's coming: the existing one-story commercial plaza at the corner of West Howard Street will make way for a striking new eight-story structure anchored by 5,000 square feet of ground-floor retail along Howard. The building's lower floors will also house a community room, activity room, fitness room, and shared laundry facilities — real amenities designed for real neighbors. The 80 units will span studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts, every single one designated as affordable. That's the kind of investment that strengthens the fabric of a community for generations.

The project still needs to secure full city and state funding approval before breaking ground, so there's more good news ahead as this one moves forward. Rogers Park continues to prove that thoughtful, community-centered development and neighborhood character aren't in conflict — they go hand in hand. Keep tabs on the latest at 49thward.org and rpba.org, and stay engaged: your voice matters as this project takes its next steps.

Sources:
1. https://chicagoyimby.com/2026/04/plan-commission-approves-werner-bros-redevelopment-in-rogers-park.html