On Wednesday, July 31, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced the recent completion of two transactions totaling $1.5 million to finance energy efficient and climate resilient improvements for affordable homes in Illinois under the Green and Resilient Retrofit Program (GRRP). The rehabilitations will update existing common spaces, including replacing roofing, windows, doors, and lighting for very low-income seniors. Renovations will also include upgrades to mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems, electrification, insulation, renewable energy integration, and stormwater management. The first project is a $750,000 loan to Brainerd Senior Center, a 60-unit, six-story building in Chicago, Illinois. The second is a $750,000 grant to Round Barn Manor, a 156-unit, two-story building in Champaign, Illinois. These transactions are the first to use GRRP funds for construction projects in Illinois. Constructed in 2000, Brainerd Senior Center will update all 60 units as well as existing common spaces, which includes replacing roofing, windows, insulation, doors, lighting, electrification improvements, and more. HUD provides rental assistance under the Section 811 Project Rental Assistance program to 12 of the households at the property. The project is also participating in the City of Chicago Decarbonization program, which enables HVAC system updates and the replacement of appliances with electric and energy-efficient alternatives.