Latest News in Chicago, IL

City Seeks Redevelopment Proposals for More Than 400 Vacant Properties

The City of Chicago is making over 400 parcels of vacant land available for purchase and redevelopment, with a focus on affordable housing initiatives. Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the importance of leveraging public and private resources to enhance neighborhood investment, particularly during Fair Housing Month. Key properties include lots for Missing Middle housing and mixed-income developments, with significant financial incentives for developers.

City Seeks Redevelopment Proposals for More Than 400 Vacant Properties

The City of Chicago is offering over 400 parcels of vacant land for purchase and redevelopment starting April 1, including sites aimed at creating affordable housing and mixed-use developments. Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the importance of these opportunities for private investment and community development, particularly during Fair Housing Month. Applications for various properties are due between May 15 and June 30, 2025.

April is National 9-1-1 Education Month and National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week is April 13-19

The City of Chicago's Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) is recognizing the contributions of 9-1-1 call takers, dispatchers, and other emergency personnel during National 9-1-1 Education Month and National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. An annual awards ceremony is scheduled for April 17 to honor these vital workers who ensure public safety around the clock. The OEMC is also promoting awareness about responsible 9-1-1 usage, encouraging citizens to report suspicious activities.

Mayor Brandon Johnson and The City of Chicago Launch Vehicle and Commercial Ticket Debt Relief Programs

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has announced new Vehicle and Commercial Ticket Debt Relief Programs, allowing residents and businesses to resolve outstanding ticket debts without late penalties or fees until June 30, 2025. The programs aim to alleviate financial burdens on working families and support economic justice by offering a straightforward path to settle eligible debts. This initiative reflects the city's commitment to reforming its fines and fees system, particularly benefiting communities that have been historically underserved.

The City of Chicago and NASCAR Announce the Traffic Plan for the NASCAR Chicago Street Race in Grant Park July 5 and July 6

The City of Chicago, in partnership with NASCAR, has unveiled a comprehensive traffic plan for the upcoming NASCAR Chicago Street Race scheduled for July 5 and July 6, 2025, in Grant Park. This initiative aims to manage the expected influx of visitors and ensure smooth traffic flow during the event, which is anticipated to draw significant crowds. The traffic measures reflect the city's commitment to facilitating large-scale events while prioritizing public safety and accessibility.

"'I wasn't throwing out rainbows.' Gay Chicago firefighters, on TV and in real life, focus on their jobs"

The article explores the experiences of Darren Ritter, a fictional gay firefighter on the show "Chicago Fire," and Lt. Paul Clark, a real-life gay firefighter in Chicago. Both share their journeys in a traditionally conservative environment, shedding light on the challenges and acceptance they faced in their respective roles. The narrative emphasizes the impact of representation in media and the importance of personal integrity in the face of prejudice.

White Sox-Angels scheduled to resume at 535 p.m.

The Angels-White Sox game faced a rain delay, with the score tied at 2-2 in the seventh inning. The National Weather Service has issued a severe weather warning for the Chicago area, anticipating rain for the next 30-60 minutes. Roger Bossard will assess the situation before resuming the game.

2 children killed in Carpentersville house fire

A tragic fire in Carpentersville claimed the lives of two children on Sunday morning. Firefighters responded swiftly, but despite their efforts, the blaze resulted in multiple injuries and the death of two dogs. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, with authorities emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Ending on a sad note River North Hard Rock Cafe closes its doors

The Hard Rock Cafe in River North, Chicago, closed its doors on March 30, 2025, after nearly 40 years of operation, marking the end of an era for fans and locals. Customers expressed sadness over the closure, reminiscing about their experiences and the restaurant's significance in the city’s dining culture. The closure reflects changing musical tastes and the challenges faced by establishments that cater to specific genres.

They were fired in the name of efficiency based on 'a lie.' Then the VA paid them not to work.

Ricky Noschese, a federal employee at the Lovell Federal Health Care Center, was among over 24,000 workers terminated under a new efficiency initiative led by Elon Musk. The terminations, which many employees contested as unjust, prompted legal actions resulting in federal judges ordering reinstatement. The VA has since placed terminated workers on administrative leave while their cases are reviewed.