Chicago is developing its first 'Missing Middle' housing project initiated by Mayor Brandon Johnson, aimed at addressing the affordable housing crisis in historically neglected neighborhoods.
In 2026, the city of Chicago officially announced the leasing of land to private developers for just one dollar to build middle-class housing in neighborhoods that have historically been abandoned. Mayor Brandon Johnson launched this initiative by inaugurating seven two-story apartments in the North Lawndale neighborhood, marking the first step towards a total of 115 market-priced units expected to be developed under the city's 'Missing Middle' housing initiative, facilitated by the Department of Planning and Development (DPD). This effort responds to the pressing need for affordable housing in a city where many residents struggle to find suitable accommodation.
