AARP Illinois Commends Chicago City Council for Ordinance Creating Much-Needed Housing Options

Chicago. -  AARP Illinois Volunteer State President Rosanna Marquez issued the following statement after the City Council voted Wednesday to create an Accessory Dwelling Units pilot:

“On behalf of our 250,000 members and all older adults in Chicago, AARP Illinois commends the City Council for its overwhelming approval of an Accessory Dwelling Unit pilot ordinance.

By 2030, one in five Americans will be age 50 and older. It is critical that communities address their range of needs now.

A 2018 AARP survey showed us that adults 50 and older want to remain in their communities and homes as they age. Yet one in three older adults report that major modifications to their home are needed to accommodate aging needs. Seven in ten would consider building an ADU for a loved one who needs care. 

The ADU Pilot Ordinance is an important first step in providing opportunities for those age 50+ to age in place in the communities they call home. This, in turn, allows these Chicagoans to continue serving as a stabilizing force and anchors of their communities. Older adults and their families in these six pilot communities will be able to benefit from this innovative housing model. 

The ordinance will increase the supply of affordable rental housing for our workforce currently priced out of the market, provide diverse housing options for older adults looking to downsize in their current community, and offer housing suitable for the caregiving of an older relative while providing them with the independence they desire.

AARP Illinois commends city leaders for being innovative and forward-thinking as it works to meet the pressing needs for Chicago residents. We look forward to partnering with community stakeholders and residents to roll out this pilot and provide information and tools on ADUs.”