Former South Side school repurposed as affordable housing

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A former Englewood school that sat vacant for years is being repurposed as affordable housing, giving the historic building a new role in the community.

The Charles Warrington Earle School was built in 1897. Chicago Public Schools closed it in 2014, along with nearly 50 other schools.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

"The toll was more than just a logistical nightmare. It directly impacted the safety of our students, forcing them to travel a long distance just to receive an education," Mayor Brandon Johnson said.

After years of sitting vacant, the building has undergone a $34 million city-supported transformation. It is now Earle Residences, a 50-unit affordable housing development.

Developers said the project preserves the historic character of the century-old school while giving the building a new purpose.

SEE ALSO: 300 people displaced, racing community's future uncertain as judge approves Hawthorne sale

Krystal Peters, who moved into the development a few weeks ago, said the project has personal meaning for her.

"My father was actually a teacher; he passed away 20-something years ago. So I kind of look at this as a gift from him," Peters said.

Community leaders described the development as an opportunity to turn a symbol of disinvestment into one of opportunity.

"These 50 apartments will be for residents who are earning less than $50,000 if they're on their own or less than $73,000 a year if they are a family of four," said Lisette Castaneda, commissioner of the Department of Housing.

Residents will also have access to supportive services provided through the Phoenix Foundation.

"Our intention is to provide services to help people flourish, to maintain their housing but also get out of housing that they need supporting services for," said Sherri Allen-Reeves, executive director of the Phoenix Foundation.

The building is energy efficient, with greatly reduced carbon emissions. Nearly half of the 50 units are occupied.