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The proposed Crosstown Trail would stretch 3. 2 miles from West Montrose to West Cortland Street, connecting various neighborhoods on Chicago's Far Northwest Side. Local leaders, including Ald. Jessie Fuentes and Cook County Commissioner Jessica Vasquez, held a virtual town hall to discuss the vision for the trail, emphasizing the need for anti-gentrification measures. A 2016 study revealed that housing prices increased by 48.

2 percent in areas surrounding the Bloomingdale Trail post-construction, resulting in significant displacement of residents. Community advocates, including Marco Chaidez from the Northwest Side Community Development Corporation, suggest creating land trusts and implementing tenant rights to combat gentrification. The City Council's Northwest Side Housing Preservation Ordinance charges developers for demolishing homes, with funds directed towards housing preservation efforts. Residents express concern about the potential impact of the new trail on housing affordability and community integrity. Fuentes highlights the importance of developing legislation early in the planning process.

Engaging local voices and addressing displacement concerns are critical to ensuring the trail benefits all residents.