TIF Funding Proposed for East Garfield Park Performing Arts Center

BandWith Chicago, a youth performing arts and wellness advocacy organization, has proposed the establishment of a $12. 3 million permanent headquarters in East Garfield Park, as introduced to the City Council by Mayor Brandon Johnson. The proposal includes up to $5 million in Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to support the development of a new 21,460-square-foot facility. This center will provide vital rehearsal and performance spaces, as well as classrooms dedicated to various artistic disciplines such as music, dance, drumline, sound engineering, and choral instruction. In addition to the performing arts spaces, the project plans to incorporate retail space for a cafe and an educational resource center in collaboration with Horizons for Youth.

The new headquarters is strategically located one block from where BandWith began its operations in 2013, reinforcing its commitment to the East Garfield Park community. This initiative is poised to significantly enhance access to performing arts programs for local youth, fostering creativity and cultural engagement. The financial backing from the City Council underscores the importance of investing in community-driven projects that support youth development. As such, this proposal represents a significant step forward in promoting the arts and wellness in the city.