On Monday May 11, 2026, community members, faith leaders, elected officials, neighbors and partners gathered in Evanston to celebrate the future home of 33 households.
The official groundbreaking of Mt. Pisgah Apartments marks the beginning of a long-awaited affordable housing development that will create 33 new apartment homes for individuals and families in Evanston. Developed by Housing Opportunity Development Corporation in partnership with Mt. Pisgah Ministries, and the City of Evanston. Designed by Cordogan Clark and to be constructed by Skender Construction, the development represents years of persistence, partnership and community advocacy.
But beyond the shovels, hard hats and construction plans, this project is ultimately about people.
But beyond the shovels, hard hats and construction plans, this project is ultimately about people.
It is about the family trying to remain in the community where their children go to school.
It is about seniors who deserve to age with dignity in the neighborhoods they helped build.
It is about workers who keep our communities running but are increasingly priced out of the places they serve.
It is about creating homes where people can build stable futures.
Throughout the ceremony, speaker after speaker reflected on why affordable housing matters as not just a policy issue, but as a human one.
Mayor Daniel Biss shared that the City of Evanston has “no higher priority than affordable housing,” reinforcing the city’s commitment to creating opportunities for residents to remain in the community they call home.
Councilmember Bobby Burns spoke candidly about the challenges affordable housing developments often face and the importance of continuing to advocate for neighbors who need access to safe and affordable homes.
“There are going to be people who would otherwise no longer be in Evanston,” Burns shared.
Pastor Clifford Wilson reflected on the years of work that led to this moment and the importance of continuing to invest in the community’s future.
“We need this kind of development in our community at this time,” he said.
Cook County Commissioner Josina Morita encouraged attendees to focus on hope, community and the positive impact affordable housing creates for everyone.
Mt. Pisgah Apartments will include one-, two- and three-bedroom homes affordable to households earning below 60% of the area median income, along with ground-floor commercial space and community amenities. The development has been intentionally designed to support long-term affordability and community stability.
For HODC, this groundbreaking is another reminder that affordable housing changes lives.
Every home created represents safety.
Every home represents opportunity.
Every home represents a family, an individual or a neighbor who deserves the chance to thrive.
We are deeply grateful to every partner, advocate, elected official, donor and community member who helped make this day possible. Together, we are building more than housing — we are building stronger communities.
