The City of Polo, Illinois, is proposing this project – Securing Quality Housing for Seniors – as the community deals with the very real housing needs for its older adults, many of whom have moved to other communities or out of state due to the lack of quality housing for this most vulnerable population.
Explanation of the Request: Housing in the City of Polo, like with other rural areas of Illinois and the United States, is a real need that has risen to the top of this community of 2,495 and has been identified as economically disadvantaged. Older adults are leaving this community, not because they want to, but because there are simply no housing options appropriate for their needs. A recent community survey of residents provided confirmation for these recent trends. The survey of 102 residents confirmed the demand for single-family (62%), senior (52%), and affordable starter homes (47%), with a “substantial interest” for a price point of less than $150,000. Following affordability on the list of top home features were outdoor space and energy efficiency. The majority of respondents stated that Polo lacks sufficient options for young families and seniors, with most supporting the city’s involvement in demolition and/or renovation of existing properties. Support for new development was strongest among respondents when it attracts workers and families, preserves the community’s character, includes green space, and is energy efficient.
Purpose of Project/Justification: At the heart of this project is the redevelopment of the former Polo Rehabilitation Center at 703 East Buffalo Street in Polo. The 81-bed rehabilitation center closed in October 2025, going on the market shortly thereafter. Since then, the building has been empty. Overall, the building is structurally sound and well-maintained. It does, however, need a full replacement of its HVAC system before it can be utilized for housing. Prolonged vacancy will only accelerate its deterioration, so the timing of this project is of the essence. The plan for this existing structure is to develop the former rehabilitation center into housing for older adults, up to 40 units, that will fit their specific needs. The cost for this project is estimated at $9,180,050. An initial budget for the project is included in the sections that follow. The project is consistent with the regional 2024-2029 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy of Northwest Illinois of Blackhawk Hills Regional Council. This plan calls for supporting housing development, including establishing programs that improve accessibility for older adults, identifying it under the business/worker resiliency and quality of life goals of the plan. This project also aligns with the efforts of the Polo Economic Development Corporation, a partner organization of this proposal. The PEDC aims to enhance local, physical, and economic resources through strategic development, which includes supporting the maintenance of existing housing and encouraging new, accessible, and affordable residential development. Working with Ogle County and the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA), Polo is currently (March 2026 – March 2027) developing a Community Revitalization Plan to identify specific housing needs and support long-term economic growth.