23rd Place At Southbridge Celebrates Retail Anchors With Grand Opening, Ribbon-Cutting

City leaders celebrated the grand opening of Batter & Berries and 24Life Training & Fitness at the 23rd Place at Southbridge mixed-use development during a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the importance of these new Black-owned businesses in fostering economic growth and job creation in the Near South Side. The Southbridge development, constructed on the site of the former Harold Ickes Homes, is part of a larger revitalization effort aimed at providing affordable housing as the area sees an influx of new residents. Currently, the development plans to include over 850 townhomes and apartments, with 244 units designated for public housing residents. The city allocated $11.

9 million in tax-increment financing for the next phase, which will introduce additional affordable housing and 1,500 square feet of commercial space. Local resident Raven Jenkins noted the positive impact on her family's quality of life since moving into Southbridge. Will Woodley from The Community Builders reaffirmed their commitment to creating strong mixed-income communities. The development is recognized as one of two Equitable Transit-Oriented Developments on the South Side.