Pilsen Approves Six-Unit Replacement for 1906 Romanesque Revival Building

This post examines a newly issued construction permit for 2134 West 18th Place in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood. It explores the design, site history, and neighborhood implications.

The permit details a two-story plus basement, six-unit residential building. The reported construction budget is $600,000.

The project team includes Veterans Construction Group LLC as the general contractor. Architect Michael T. Ryan is credited with the design.

The construction permit was issued on January 7, 2026. The application was initially filed on February 25, 2025.

This building will contain six residential units. The project continues Pilsen’s trend toward incremental density.

The scope includes two on-slab surface parking spaces at the rear and perimeter fencing. The modest parking allocation suggests the project is aimed at households who rely on transit and local amenities.

This low parking ratio is common in transit-rich Chicago neighborhoods. It helps reduce construction costs and encourages sustainable mobility choices.

Site history and the demolition debate

The new project will require demolition of a single-story, Romanesque Revival–influenced multi-unit house built in 1906. Records show the same family has owned the property since 2005.

A demolition permit has been pending on the Chicago Data Portal since November 2025. This suggests there may be a review related to the building’s historical or architectural significance.

If demolition is approved, Maxym Demolition of St. Charles is slated to handle the work. The situation highlights the balance between property owner rights and preservation of neighborhood character.

Transit access, market implications, and neighborhood context

The site has strong transit connectivity, which supports the low parking approach. The property is within walking distance of several transit options:

This transit access makes the future units appealing to renters who work across the city or use Metra for regional commutes. Smaller multi-unit infill in Pilsen can be lower-risk for developers due to modest construction costs and proximity to transit.

The change from a single historic building to a six-unit rental property will affect density, parking demand, and the visual streetscape.

What to watch next

Key items to monitor include the outcome of the demolition permit. Community input and preservation reviews are also important to watch.

Veterans Construction Group will release construction timelines. For architects, engineers, and local stakeholders, this project highlights the balance between affordable, transit-oriented housing and historic preservation in a changing Chicago neighborhood.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Six Units Permitted To Replace 1906 Romanesque Revival–Influenced Residential Building In Pilsen