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Avondale and Irving Park will gain new apartments following Chicago City Council's approval of two residential projects. A five-story building featuring 32 apartments and a four-story structure with nine apartments will be constructed, responding to the growing demand for housing in the area.
Little Village properties have been rezoned from industrial to commercial use following community requests for less industry. Ald. Michael Rodriguez emphasized the changes will promote small businesses and reduce truck traffic in the neighborhood. This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance local community planning.
The City Council approved the Jackson Park Housing Pilot Ordinance, aimed at enhancing affordable housing on the South Side. This legislation reserves city-owned lots for affordable apartments and homeownership programs after a previous proposal stalled for nearly two years. The ordinance reflects community support for affordable housing near the future Obama Presidential Center.
AMLI Residential proposed a 56-story apartment tower at 669 N. Michigan Ave., which would add 498 residential units to Chicago's Magnificent Mile. The project, requiring city approval, includes retail space, parking, and designated affordable units. City officials expect the development to enhance foot traffic and help revitalize the area post-pandemic.
Portage Park elected its first-ever pet mayor, a dog named Eden, during a local farmers market event. The election raised nearly 1,200 non-perishable food donations for the Irving Park Food Pantry, showcasing the community's commitment to both pets and local charities. Eden aims to promote animal rescues and spread positivity in the neighborhood.
Three businesses, including Furious Spoon, Pink Squirrel, and Deadbolt, closed in Logan Square, with plans for new concepts from restaurateur Esam Hani. Hani confirmed he is taking over the storefronts and submitted business license applications for a restaurant and a new bar in the locations. The closures follow community concerns over safety issues linked to Deadbolt.
Officials fenced off the ICE facility in Broadview following weeks of protests against increased federal immigration enforcement. Activists plan daily demonstrations to push for the facility's closure, facing heightened security measures from federal agents.
Chicago’s speed camera program, expanded to over 200 cameras, aims to enhance transparency and equity, according to a recent city report. The report suggests eliminating late fees and creating a dashboard for revenue tracking to counter perceptions of the program as a cash grab. Advocates argue the cameras improve safety, while critics highlight their disproportionate impact on minority communities.
HV Entertainment will open a new LGBTQ+ bar, Chicago Eagle, in the former location of the Baton Show Lounge, which has operated since 1969. The Baton Show Lounge will continue to host drag shows in a dedicated room within Chicago Eagle, ensuring its legacy remains. Richard Ramey, a key figure in the transition, emphasizes the importance of safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community.
A Chicago City Council committee approved plans for a 22,000-seat soccer stadium for the Chicago Fire at The 78 development site. The $650 million project, expected to open in 2028, will include a dedicated bus route and some parking options for fans. The full City Council will vote on the project Thursday.