The Independence Branch Library project will bring a six-story, 16,000-square-foot building to 4022 N. Elston Ave. in Irving Park, according to DNAinfo. The library will occupy the first two floors of the building, while the remaining four floors will be dedicated to affordable housing for seniors.

Completion of the project, backed by the Chicago Housing Authority, relies on federal funding and tax credits. The funds for the project are still available, but imminent federal tax reform could mean the money for the mixed-use building could vanish. In response, the project has been green lit for groundbreaking by the end of this year. All six floors of the Independence Branch Library could be open as early 2018.

Evergreen Real Estate Group is leading the building’s development, while John Ronan Architects is responsible for the branch’s design. The library portion of the building will feature an open layout and large glass windows, which will allow plenty of natural light to filter inside. Library features will include a community room, a media center, play areas for children, and more.

The affordable housing above the library will feature 44 apartments, each with its own balcony. The building will also include 16 parking spaces for library visitors and 17 parking spaces for residents. The roof of the parking structure will actually be a small, outdoor space accessible from the second floor of the library.

 Renderings of the building were revealed during a recent community meeting. The response from neighborhood residents was largely positive.