Greening Chicago's Bungalows

Chicago Bungalow, constructed by the tens of thousands in the early 1900s to house the city’s working class. Bungalow owners can now take advantage of matching grants from the Chicago Department of Environment for up to $2,000 toward improvements in windows, doors, and insulation, and for water-efficient fixtures and appliances. Additionally, $1,000 vouchers are available for energy-efficient appliances. Bungalow owners can also tap into a $3.5 million grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation to purchase or upgrade efficient furnaces, air-conditioners, water heaters, and solar technologies. Mayor Daley launched the Historic Chicago Bungalow Association in 2000 to promote the purchase and restoration of these homes. “Now these homeowners have new resources to make their homes more energy- and water-efficient, saving themselves money in the long run and helping further improve Chicago’s environment,” he said. To qualify for these incentives, homes must be certified by the Historic Chicago Bungalow Association, online at www.chicagobungalow.org.