Martin Avenue Apartments Could Grow By 50 Percent

NAPERVILLE, IL -- A Naperville apartment complex that houses low-income senior citizens and people with disabilities is one step closer to an expansion, after an endorsement from the planning and zoning commission.

Martin Avenue Apartments could soon be renovated with an addition that expands the complex by 50 percent. The Naperville Planning and Zoning Commission on Wednesday OKed the plans. The apartment complex is reserved for low-income senior citizens 62 and older and for people with disabilities.

The five-story, 68-unit addition would be made to the current 121-unit complex at 310 Martin Ave. Planning and Zoning Commissioners voted unanimously to recommend the project to the Naperville City Council. If the project moves forward, the existing building will connect on its south side to the new one via a one-story glass atrium.

Planners say the complex is ideally located for seniors and residents with disabilities because of its proximity to Naperville Park District facilities, the city's downtown area and various medical facilities. The project "provides a needed housing type in the city," the planners said.

The Martin Avenue Apartments, operated by Naperville Elderly Homes, Inc., is a government-subsidized, non profit housing center, according to their website. "Residents also enjoy thoughtful amenities, specially designed for active senior lifestyles," the homepage says.

The Naperville Sun reported that the project will mostly be funded by a low-income housing tax credit alongside a $1 million grant from the DuPage County HOME Advisory Group.

Due to "financial constraints," Naperville Elderly Homes planners said, they do not plan to use any brick or masonry in the new building. A municipal code mandates that "a minimum of 50 percent of the exterior wall construction," is made of solid masonry in apartment and condominium complexes, so planners are seeking a variance to the code.

The Naperville Building Review Board will decide on May 17 if they will grant the variance. If they do, the proposal will come before the City Council.

Article image used with permission of Naperville Elderly Homes