Transcript:
In May, construction began on an all-electric, ultra-energy-efficient building on Chicago’s west side.
Called Humboldt Park Passive Living, the project is particularly meaningful for developer AJ Patton of 548 Enterprise.
Patton: “So in 1999, my mother received a $400 gas bill. She was making 10 bucks an hour. And consequently, we got our gas shut off and for a year straight had to boil water to take a bath.”
He does not want others to suffer the same kind of experience, so he’s committed to building affordable housing that helps lower families’ electricity costs.
The team is building the project in Humboldt Park to so-called passive house design standards, which means it will feature thick walls and high-performance windows to minimize the energy needed for heating and cooling.
Patton: “It is the largest passive house development in the city of Chicago’s history. That’s pretty special. It is 100% all electric – also special.”
It will also have rooftop solar to power the common areas and a fast electric vehicle charging station.
And 48 of the building’s apartment units will be reserved for residents making less than 60% of the area’s median income.
So it will allow more low-income families to enjoy the benefits of living in an energy-efficient home.
Reporting credit: ChavoBart Digital Media
