What Will Downtown Look Like In 2045? Plan Calls For Better Transit, Riverwalk Extension And More

Chicago's draft Central Area Plan aims to reshape Downtown over the next two decades by adding tens of thousands of housing units and creating new jobs. The plan reflects input from more than 10,000 residents and outlines 250 policy suggestions categorized into eight quality-of-life pillars. Key initiatives include establishing an Office of Nighttime Engagement to enhance the nightlife experience and developing a new Madison Street Pink Line station to improve transit access. The proposal also plans to convert vacant lots into green public spaces and extend the Riverwalk along the North Branch of the Chicago River. The draft will enter a 30-day public comment period before being presented to the Plan Commission in November.

The Central Area currently houses about 184,000 residents and generates 45 percent of the city's tax base. This ambitious plan aims to not only revitalize the economy but also to address environmental concerns by cutting carbon emissions and increasing green spaces. The proposed changes are expected to significantly improve the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.