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Chicago's largest indoor pickleball facility, SPF, plans to expand with new courts in Irving Park and Hyde Park by year-end. The flagship location in Lincoln Park has attracted 26,000 visitors since its opening in January 2024, aiming to promote community engagement through the sport.
Southside Market will open in Chatham on October 24, offering fresh, locally sourced groceries in a food desert. The community-owned micro-grocery store, occupying 1,400 square feet, aims to meet basic grocery needs and promote local vendors. The market's development prioritized community input, with 82 invested owners aiming to reach 300 by opening day.
A city committee approved plans for taller and denser development along Broadway in Edgewater and Uptown on Tuesday. The zoning changes aim to address rising housing costs and gentrification concerns, though they face opposition from some residents fearing loss of small businesses and community input. The proposal will now go to the full City Council for a vote.
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) will increase fares by 25 cents starting February 1, raising bus and train rides to $2.50 and $2.75, respectively. This marks the first fare hike since 2018 and aims to generate additional revenue amid a significant budget deficit.
A WGN employee, Debbie Brockman, plans to pursue legal action after federal agents detained her during her commute in Lincoln Square. Witnesses and video evidence contradict Homeland Security's claims that she assaulted officers, as her attorney states she was violently attacked. Brockman was held for seven hours without charges.
The Promontory, a beloved South Side venue in Hyde Park, will close its doors after 11 years, following its New Year’s Eve party on December 31. The venue, known for concerts and community events, has seen significant changes since its restaurant closed in 2020 due to the pandemic. Owners announced the closure on Instagram, expressing gratitude for the support from the neighborhood.
Federal agents deployed tear gas in Albany Park as residents intervened to prevent the detention of a neighbor. Gabriel Paez and Megan Dougherty filmed the confrontation, which escalated when neighbors formed a human chain to block the agents' path. The incident highlights growing tensions during Operation Midway Blitz, an immigration enforcement effort.
Neighbors in Uptown are fighting to save the Chatelaine and Northmere, two remaining single-room occupancy buildings, from closure. The potential loss of these buildings could displace long-term residents, many of whom rely on affordable housing as a last resort before homelessness. Local officials and housing advocates are urging action to protect these vital accommodations.
A Chicago police officer, David Deleon, received a 20-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to sexually abusing minors. The charges stemmed from an investigation by Norridge police, which revealed evidence of Deleon's sexual assaults and child pornography. He had been on administrative leave since his arrest in 2023.
Four individuals, including a tamale vendor, were arrested by ICE agents in Rogers Park, prompting local residents to rally in support of those affected. Organizers reported that around 400 community members participated in the rally, highlighting concerns over increased immigration enforcement in the area. Jose Flores, a long-time vendor, noted a significant decline in business since the onset of heightened ICE activity.