Latest News in Chicago, IL

Chicagoans Encouraged To Get Flu, COVID Shots As Health Department Breaks With Feds

The Chicago Department of Health urges residents to receive flu and updated COVID-19 vaccinations as respiratory virus season begins. The city diverges from federal recommendations, advocating for widespread vaccination based on a thorough review of data by the Illinois Immunization Advisory Committee. Free vaccines will be available at city clinics, starting with COVID-19 shots for individuals aged 12 and older.

Federal Agents Arrest Southwest Side Organizers As They Filmed ICE Activity, Officials Say

Federal agents arrested several immigrant rights organizers in Chicago's Southwest Side while they filmed ICE activity, according to local officials. The organizers were allegedly detained without cause and threatened by federal officers. Local leaders condemned the actions as a violation of First Amendment rights.

5-Story Apartment Building Coming To Uptowns Our Lady Of Lourdes School Lot

Ald. Matt Martin approved a zoning change to allow Honore Properties to build a five-story apartment building with 78 units on the former Our Lady of Lourdes church campus in Uptown. The plan includes 16 affordable units and sustainability features, pending further approvals from the city.

Logan Squares The Walk In Bar Temporarily Closes For Remodel

The Walk In cocktail bar in Logan Square closed for renovations after nearly a decade. Owner Esam Hani announced the bar will reopen in about six weeks with a refreshed atmosphere and an updated drink menu. The bar will continue to allow patrons to order food from a nearby restaurant, The Harding Tavern.

How Closed Loop Farms Became A Microgreens Empire In Chicago

Adam Pollack transformed his summer internship experience into a thriving business, Closed Loop Farms, which delivers over 200 produce orders weekly across Chicago. The farm specializes in microgreens and edible flowers, contributing to the local dining scene and even appearing in the TV show "The Bear." Pollack's innovative approach and sustainable practices have allowed the farm to adapt and grow, especially during the pandemic.

Pilsen Neighbors Urge City To Reject Fisk Power Station Demolition Permits

Pilsen residents and Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez urge the city to deny Midwest Generation's request for demolition permits for parts of the Fisk Generating Station, citing environmental and health concerns. The city has yet to approve the permits, as neighbors demand better protections due to the area's history of pollution.

Lake Street Bridge Construction Starts Soon, Closing It To Traffic For 2 Years

The Lake Street bridge in Chicago will close to car and pedestrian traffic for two years starting October 6 due to reconstruction. The Chicago Transit Authority's Green and Pink line services will continue, aside from two planned outages in 2026 and 2027. Detours will be established, and the bridge work coincides with the reconstruction of the Chicago Avenue bridge.

At Least 5 People Face Federal Criminal Charges Tied To Protests Outside Broadview ICE Facility

Five individuals face federal charges following protests outside an ICE facility in Broadview, Illinois, where clashes occurred with law enforcement. U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros pledged to act against those who assault officers or cross the line from peaceful demonstration to violence. Local officials and advocates argue that federal agents provoked the unrest with excessive force.

Extra! Extra! Block Club And Half Acre Made A Beer

Block Club Chicago partnered with Half Acre Beer Co. to unveil Extra! Extra! Xtra Pale Ale, a 4.2% ABV brew featuring tropical fruit and pine aromas. The Block Party, set for Saturday at Half Acre in Bowmanville, will donate $1 from each pint sold to support local journalism.

What Will Downtown Look Like In 2045? Plan Calls For Better Transit, Riverwalk Extension And More

Chicago's draft Central Area Plan envisions significant changes in Downtown over the next 20 years, aiming to add tens of thousands of housing units and create new jobs. The plan incorporates public feedback from over 10,000 residents and outlines 250 policy suggestions focused on enhancing quality of life, transit, and green spaces. A 30-day public comment period has begun before the plan is presented to the Plan Commission in November.