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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.
Chicago's City Council approved an ordinance allowing additional dwelling units like coach houses and basement apartments citywide, with restrictions in single-family areas. The plan, backed by a compromise between Ald. Bennett Lawson and Ald. Marty Quinn, permits construction without zoning changes in multi-unit and commercial districts. However, individual alderpeople can opt-out of allowing these units in their wards.
Chicago expects a rainy week with possible thunderstorms, but conditions are set to improve by the weekend. Unseasonably warm weather will return, offering residents a reprieve from the wet forecast.
State lawmakers blocked $4 million in grant aid to Weiss Hospital after its owner, Manoj Prasad, failed to communicate with them regarding an appeal to the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Community leaders expressed frustration over the hospital's closure and the impact on local residents and healthcare services. They accused Prasad of mismanagement and neglect while he defended his ownership as a necessary measure to prevent the hospital's permanent closure.
Animal activists urge Chicago to enhance support for its only municipal shelter, Chicago Animal Care and Control, facing a surge in unwanted animals. In July, the shelter took in nearly 1,842 animals, up from 34 per day in previous years, leading to difficult decisions regarding euthanasia due to overcrowding. Advocates call for public meetings to address the shelter's challenges and push for improved resources.
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.
Preservationists are working to save Roger Brown’s former home and studio in Lincoln Park from potential demolition after the School of the Art Institute of Chicago listed the property for sale. The 19th-century building, significant to Chicago's art history, housed Brown's creative work for over 20 years. Preservation groups are urging the city to designate the property as a landmark to prevent its destruction.
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.
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.
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.