IHDA Celebrates Start of Construction on Housing for Domestic Violence Victims

ZION - Twenty units of permanent supportive housing in Lake County for victims of domestic abuse will be built as a result of the financial investment of the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA). An estimated 82 jobs will be created with the construction of the new A Safe Place development.

On behalf of the administration of Governor Pat Quinn, IHDA invested $3.2 million in federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) resources, federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and other funds. The federal tax credits generated an additional $4.7 million in private equity to build the affordable apartments.

Developed by Lake County Crisis Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Domestic Violence and Brinshore Development, this second phase will complement an existing 20 units of transitional housing for domestic abuse survivors that IHDA also financed.

"A Safe Place demonstrates how federal stimulus dollars have enabled the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) to build more affordable housing and create construction jobs across the state," said Gloria L. Materre, IHDA Executive Director.  "These 20 new apartments will ensure Lake County domestic abuse victims have access to secure and affordable housing as they continue on the path to self-sufficiency."

ARRA stimulus funds created the financial incentive to spur construction on Illinois affordable housing developments. The funds provided financing options to developers to help rebuild Illinois' economy and put affordable housing developments back on track. To date, IHDA has invested federal stimulus funds to jumpstart construction on 3,800 affordable rental homes statewide, creating an estimated 4,000 jobs in Illinois.

The new development, 2710 17th St. in Zion, will include six one-bedroom, eight two-bedroom and six three-bedroom units. Residents will have access to supportive services. The development will feature a conference room, playground, patio, rooftop lounge and Internet access. Green features will include low-flow plumbing, Energy Star appliances and energy-efficient windows. 

Construction is expected to be completed by summer 2011.

"We are especially proud to have IHDA's support for this project that is expanding A Safe Place's housing options and supportive services to battered women and their children," said Phyllis A. DeMott, A Safe Place's Executive Director.

For more information about A Safe Place, call (847) 731-7165 or visit www.asafeplaceforhelp.org.