PCC Austin Clinic

In February 2022, CDF provided $14 million in New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) allocation to PCC Community Wellness Center to fund the construction of a 32,000 SF health and wellness facility in one of Chicago’s most medically underserved neighborhoods. Founded in 1980, PCC Community Wellness Center is a Federally Qualified Health Center with 11 locations serving 48,000 patients annually in Chicago’s Westside and near west suburbs. The PCC Austin Health Clinic will increase access to primary, specialty, and behavioral health services for low-income residents. The center will include 24 primary care exam rooms, 7 counseling rooms, 4 group therapy spaces, a telemedicine center, a lifestyle center, and a green roof. It is located adjacent to the existing PCC Austin Family Health Center. By co-locating these facilities, PCC is expanding overall capacity to meet demand for affordable quality healthcare in the neighborhood and also creating the opportunity to repurpose the first floor of its existing building for specialty care.

Primary care capacity will increase from 8,400 to 15,000 unique patients annually (90% low-income), improving access to critical care in a neighborhood with the lowest life expectancy of any Chicago community area. On-site specialty care will improve access for the uninsured and those lacking reliable transportation by co-locating services at a convenient location. Behavioral health capacity, including substance abuse treatment, will also greatly expand in a community the City of Chicago has identified as an Opioid Treatment Desert. The project’s Lifestyle Center will provide physical therapy, nutrition counseling, and affordable fitness spaces to allow community residents opportunities for physical activity. Additionally, the project is anticipated to support 92 FTE permanent jobs, 100% of which will pay above Chicago’s living wage. The building will be WELL Building and Green Globes Certified, and also involves cleanup of a brownfield site acquired from the Cook County Land Bank.

NMTC equity was provided by JPMorgan Chase.