RFP Process Launched for Chicago State University’s University Village 95 Mixed-Use Development

 

Chicago – July 28, 2024 – CBRE, in partnership with Chicago State University (CSU), is pleased to announce the launch of a Request for Proposals for University Village 95, a transformative mixed-use development opportunity located in the heart of Chicago’s South Side. This initiative marks a significant milestone in CSU’s long-term vision to expand student housing and catalyze economic revitalization along the 95th Street Corridor.

CSU - Illinois’ only four-year Predominantly Black Institution - generates an annual $1.6 billion in income for Illinois. This project represents the University’s continued commitment to equitable economic development by creating a modern, thriving hub for students, faculty, families, and the community at large.

The University Village 95 site allows for approximately 232,000 square feet of new construction on a two-acre site. The initial phase could deliver up to 528 student beds and 25,000 square feet of retail space, with occupancy targeted for 2027.

The development is strategically located within the 95th Street Corridor, a key connector between Chicago’s South Side neighborhoods and major employment centers. The area is supported by billions in public and private investment, including the $280 million renovation of the 95th Street Red Line station, a $5.75 billion Red Line extension, $56 million in upgrades to the nearby Metra station, and the $1 billion investment to Chicago’s South Side by Advocate Health Care. CSU’s campus is also adjacent to emerging economic hubs such as the $9 billion Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park and the Roseland Medical District.

“University Village 95 is more than a real estate project—it’s a commitment to equitable development through real estate investment,” said Andrea Zopp, Chair of the CSU Board of Trustees. “We’re proud to partner with CBRE to bring this vision to life and ensure it reflects the values and aspirations of our campus and community.”

“This is a generational opportunity to create a vibrant, transit-connected hub that meets the evolving needs of our students and surrounding community,” said Zaldwaynaka (Z) Scott, President of Chicago State University. “University Village 95 will be a new front door to our campus and a catalyst for inclusive growth.”

The RFP follows CSU’s 2023 Facilities Master Plan and the 95th Street Corridor Development Framework Plan, both of which identified urgent needs for student housing and retail amenities. A recent housing survey revealed a 90+ bed waiting list and demand for 915 additional beds among current students. Retail studies also indicate unmet demand for 10,000 square feet of traditional retail and 15,000 square feet of CSU-sponsored commercial space, such as a fitness center and bookstore.

As part of CSU’s commitment to ensuring that the University Village 95 project becomes a catalyst for inclusive growth, equitable development, and strong community partnerships on the South Side of Chicago, it is launching a website that will serve as a clearinghouse for local participation in the project. The University invites local subcontracts, workforce development partners, vendors, and service providers to submit their information per the instructions on the website.

Brandon Green, on CBRE Chicago’s Advisory & Transactions team, and the firm’s national Public Institutions and Education Solutions (PIES) team of Anne Rahm and Michael McShea have been hired to serve as the University’s real estate advisor for the project.

Proposals are due by 3:00 PM CST on October 16, 2025, with a development team expected to be selected by December 8, 2025.

 

About CBRE Group, Inc.

CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE: CBRE), a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Dallas, is the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm (based on 2024 revenue). The company has more than 140,000 employees (including Turner & Townsend employees) serving clients in more than 100 countries. CBRE serves a diverse range of clients with an integrated suite of services, including facilities, transaction and project management; property management; investment management; appraisal and valuation; property leasing; strategic consulting; property sales; mortgage services and development services. Please visit our website at www.cbre.com.

 

About Chicago State University

CSU, founded in 1867, is the oldest public university in the Chicago Metropolitan area. The University’s four colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate and graduate degree-granting and non-degree programs. CSU is committed to equity in education, serving as the only U.S. Department of Education-designated four-year Predominantly Black Institution in Illinois and ranked by a Harvard economist in the top 4% of public and private universities nationwide in supporting our graduates’ economic mobility. The University serves as a prominent civic space on the greater South Side of Chicago by hosting a multitude of athletic, educational, cultural, and recreational activities. The University is located near public transit that provides convenient access to the campus. Visit csu.edu.