"The main criteria is need, and we're serving an area that's very underserved," Ray tells GlobeSt.com. The proposed six-story building at 2427 W. Touhy Ave. in the West Ridge community is expected to open during 2007 after its recent endorsement from the plan commission.

Although plans were approved in 1997 for an assisted living building, only 64 units were allowed, according to the Department of Planning and Development. The developers will get permission to build 35% more than allowed under current zoning on the 1.8-acre site, which already includes a six-flat multifamily rental building that will be demolished. The site also includes a 312-unit skilled nursing facility.

Supportive living facilities serve senior citizens, who have an average age of 78 and usually are single, who need help with daily living, according to the department of planning and development. The state's department of public aid will be paying the costs for 75% of the residents, according to the department.