New Affordable Housing Project Approved for 53 Shelton Ave After Years of Advocacy

A decade of persistence pays off as BIMEC clears zoning hurdles to bring low-income housing to Shelton Ave. How will this transform the neighborhood?

, and Administrator

2026 May 5 . 8:02 AM

1 min read

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New Affordable Housing Project Approved for 53 Shelton Ave After Years of Advocacy

Believe In Me Empowerment Corporation (BIMEC) has secured approval to build affordable housing at 53 Shelton Ave. The Board of Alders voted unanimously to amend a previous resolution, paving the way for two new structures. The decision aligns with the city’s push for more affordable homes in the coming year. BIMEC was founded in 2007 to provide housing, case management, and employment support. Over the years, the organisation has faced zoning challenges while expanding its projects.

In 2016, founder and executive director James Walker appeared before the Board of Zoning to discuss housing plans. A year later, BIMEC gained permission to buy 320 Shelton Ave. for just $1,000. By 2019, the group had also acquired 53 Shelton Ave.

The latest amendment allows BIMEC to develop units for households earning 80 percent or less of the area’s median income. Affordable housing remains a key focus for the Board of Alders, who listed it as a priority for the year ahead. The approved project will add much-needed affordable units to the area. BIMEC’s work extends beyond housing, offering education, referrals, and job assistance. With zoning hurdles now cleared, construction on the new buildings can move forward.