Leadership.
James D. Letchinger
Founder & CEO
JDL Development was founded in 1993 by James D. Letchinger. To kick off his career, Jim transformed 210 E Walton Street in Chicago, a 1940’s 21-unit Benjamin Marshall apartment building, into five unique residential condominiums. He quickly established himself as one of Chicago's most creative and respected residential developers. From the start, Jim has been intimately involved in all aspects of JDL’s projects from inception to completion. His hands-on approach has enabled him to successfully navigate several cycles of Chicago’s real-estate market. With his thoughtful and authentic approach, JDL has grown into one of the most respected and influential developers in Chicago, with more 3,500 residential units constructed and another 5,000 in planning.
For over three decades, Jim and JDL have developed many of Chicago’s most prestigious real estate projects.
With its focus on residential and mixed-used development, JDL creates sophisticated and unparalleled living environments, achieving the highest standards that complement the existing urban landscape. Of special note, JDL developed No 9 Walton, 68 ultra-luxury condominiums considered to be among the most successful and expensive residential real estate deals in Chicago's history. Following on the success of No. 9, JDL created One Chicago, which was delivered in 2022. In addition to its 812 stunning residences, the 2.2 million sq. foot development offers commercial and retail space, including Whole Foods and Lifetime Fitness. One Chicago has already established itself as one of the city's award-winning architectural landmarks. JDL continues to expand with its North Union development. 8-acres of lush urban and outdoor space, 4.4 million square feet of premium residential offerings, and mixed-use retail. Foundry Park, JDL’s newest endeavor, will transform 31-acres of vacant land into a thriving, new neighborhood along the Chicago River with single- and multi-family living, retail spaces, restaurants, walking trails, and green open spaces.
Jim is a graduate of the University of Michigan. A life-long City of Chicago resident, he is married with two children and two grandchildren.
