Chicago's New Housing Typology: Five-Story Infill Buildings Resurge Due to Zoning Changes
Chicago is witnessing a resurgence of moderate-density apartment buildings, specifically five-story infill structures, known as III-5s. This revival is attributed to the Connected Communities Ordinance of 2022, which relaxed parking requirements in higher-density residential zones. Historically, such buildings were a staple in Chicago's residential landscape but were phased out due to zoning changes in 1971. The ordinance has allowed these buildings to return, particularly in B and C mixed-use districts on arterial streets. The 2019 building code reforms also played a significant role by permitting a construction type previously limited to four stories to be used for five-story buildings, making them more economically viable for developers. 
