Judy Lamelza
Special to Chicago construction news
Construction is currently underway on the long-awaited health and nutrition center at 1110 E 130th Place in Chicago's Altgeld Gardens neighborhood. This is 10,000 square feet. Led by TCA Health and designed by Wheeler Kearns Architects, the facility is slated to be a cornerstone of health, wellness and food security for a community that has long faced environmental, social and economic challenges.
Altgeld Gardens, a public housing complex built in 1945, has a history shaped by environmental adversity. Originally designed to house African American families, this community is located near more than 50 landfills and 380 industrial facilities, contributing to severe health disparities among its residents. For decades, the region has experienced high rates of cancer, birth defects and other health problems linked to pollution and limited access to basic resources.
In recent years, Altgeld Gardens has suffered further with the closing of its only full-service grocery store in 2018, turning the community into a food desert. But now, a new chapter is being written as the Health and Nutrition Center aims to meet these pressing needs by providing fresh food options and health services to local residents.
“This project is a vital step in addressing health inequities and food insecurity in Altgeld Gardens,” said Dr. Stephanie B. Callender, Executive Director of TCA Health. “We are creating a space that not only meets immediate needs, but also empowers the community to build a healthier future.”
Key features of the new facility
The Health and Nutrition Center will serve as a hub for food access and wellness initiatives. It will build on existing services provided by TCA Health and provide new resources aimed at improving the quality of life for residents. Some key features include:
Customer Choice Food Pantry: A grocery-style pantry that allows residents to choose fresh, healthy food based on their preferences, helping combat food insecurity. Grab-and-Go Café: A convenient service that provides nutritious, ready-to-eat meals to residents with busy lifestyles. Teaching Kitchen: A space dedicated to cooking and nutrition education classes, where residents can learn how to prepare healthy meals and make informed food choices. Yoga and Meditation Space: Areas for physical and mental health activities to promote overall well-being. Community Meeting Rooms: Multi-purpose spaces for community gatherings, educational workshops and events, designed to encourage community engagement and collaboration.
Designed by Wheeler Kearns Architects, the facility will have a modern, sleek aesthetic with gray metal panels on the exterior. Thoughtful landscaping will create a welcoming environment with green spaces surrounding the building. The new center will seamlessly integrate with TCA Health's existing medical facility, forming a unified campus that serves the health and wellness needs of the community.
The project, expected to be completed in June 2025, is being led by John Keno and Co. and Millhouse Construction.
“The team is committed to creating a space that meets the unique needs of Altgeld Gardens while respecting the history and aspirations of its residents,” said John Keno, President of John Keno and Co.
Long-term impact and benefits
The Health and Nutrition Center is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the community, providing not only basic services but also promoting a sense of empowerment and connection among residents.
Improving Food Access: By providing a food pantry and a café, the center will significantly improve access to fresh, nutritious food, eliminating the need for residents to travel long distances to purchase basic groceries. Health Programs: The inclusion of yoga, meditation, and educational programs will encourage residents to adopt healthier lifestyles, which may lead to long-term health improvements. Community Engagement: Meeting rooms and common spaces will provide opportunities for residents to meet, share ideas, and participate in events that contribute to the overall vitality of the community.
For the residents of Altgeld Gardens, the Health and Nutrition Center is not just a building, it is a beacon of hope – a resource to enhance their well-being and a tangible step towards addressing years of inequality.
Judy Lamelza He writes the DataBid.com blog
