40-unit ‘workforce housing’ development underway in Gurnee

Work is underway in Gurnee on a project designed to provide more people with an option for comfortable and affordable housing.

A ceremonial groundbreaking was held earlier this week on Liberty Point Residences, a 40-unit “workforce housing” community on the last undeveloped parcel in the Woodlake subdivision east of Route 21 and near the Tri-State Tollway.

The village board in September approved the project, which is a partnership of Northpointe Development Corporation of Oshkosh and Dream Lane Real Estate Group of Madison, Wisconsin.

Financed largely through housing tax credits through the Illinois Housing Development Authority, Liberty Point Residences is being built on 2.2 acres south of Washington Street and east of Route 21.

The development is across from Six Flags Great America and some residents will have direct views of roller coasters, Jake Viktor, vice president of development at Northpointe, said last month in announcing the financial closing and start of construction.

He described Liberty Point, Northpointe’s fourth development in the Chicago area, as “high-quality housing that strengthens communities and expands access to affordable living opportunities.”

The project emphasizes thoughtfully designed outdoor amenities to bring people together and create a sense of community, he added.

Liberty Point will have 16-one bedroom, 14 two-bedroom and 10 three-bedroom apartments in a three-story building. Outdoor community spaces, a grilling area, playground and walking paths connecting to the Lake Carina Forest Preserve are key elements.

All units will serve families and individuals earning between 30% and 80% of Lake County’s median income with tiered, income-restricted rents.

Northpointe said rents for the lowest earners would range from $675 to $935 per month for a one-bedroom and from $1,800 to $2,400 per month for those earning 80% of the median income.

“With housing costs skyrocketing, I will continue to support critical local projects that take steps to solve the housing crisis, starting right here at home,” U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider, who was among the attendees, posted on social media.

Gurnee Mayor Thomas Hood says the village is at 32% affordable housing, which is more than many communities offer. Liberty Point Residences, he added, fit into the village’s focus of having all types of housing and earning levels.

Construction is anticipated to be completed by the end of June 2027.