July 2, 2021
Alderman Reilly Reports
Happy Fourth of July from Alderman Reilly!
Earlier this week, Alderman Reilly joined Anna Davlantes on WGN Radio to discuss why he supported the Special City Council Meeting to address the CPD Summer Safety Plan ahead of the Fourth of July weekend.  

Alderman Reilly would like to wish everyone a happy and safe Independence Day Celebration! Please note, Alderman Reilly's Office will be closed on Monday, July 5, in observance of Independence Day, to comply with the City of Chicago mandatory holiday schedule. If you have a need for city services over the holiday weekend, please call 3-1-1 for non-emergency requests, or dial 9-1-1 if you require immediate assistance.  

As a reminder, Navy Pier will not be hosting firework celebrations on July 3 or July 4 this year. Please click here to learn more about Fourth of July events at Navy Pier this year. 

However, the City of Chicago announced there will be July 3 fireworks along the lakefront to kick off Independence Day Weekend. The event will also act as a celebration for Chicagoans whose diligence in following public health guidance has allowed City leaders to safely and fully re-open under Mayor Lightfoot’s “Open Chicago” initiative. In place of Navy Pier Fireworks, the fireworks display will illuminate Chicago’s skyline starting at 9:30 PM.  

Because these fireworks will be shot higher than usual, there will be a large spectrum of viewing possibilities for the public. The fireworks display will be visible from multiple locations along the lakefront, from Grand Avenue to the north to at least 55th Street to the south. For those who choose to view the fireworks in person, the City recommends travel on public transit. For more information, visit transitchicago.com. 

WBBM Newsradio 780 AM & 105.9 FM will provide a music simulcast, broadcasting the music soundtrack to accompany the fireworks display. 

The City’s top priority is the public safety of all residents and specific security measures have been put in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend. 

The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) will activate the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) alongside the Summer Operations Center (SOC) on Saturday, July 3. The EOC will support citywide coordination of service requests, deployed assets and the overall collaboration efforts with local, state and federal agencies. 

Security Measures
Safety is always a primary concern and several security measures and restrictions will be strictly enforced by the Chicago Police Department along the lakefront and viewing areas between Grand Avenue on the north and 55th Street on the south. To enhance security, Museum Campus will be closed to the public at 7 p.m. due to activity at Soldier Field. 

Other Events on the Lakefront 
There is a Chicago Fire v. Atlanta United game at Soldier Field beginning at 7 p.m. At the end of the game there will be a short firework display at 9:15 p.m. at Soldier Field.  

Traffic Impacts/Street Closures
Streets and roadways may be impacted in the area from Grand Avenue on the north and 55th Street on the south. OEMC’s Traffic Control Aides and Chicago Police Department will be on site to ensure traffic flow.  


Chicago Park District Beaches and Harbors 
On July 3 the 12th Street Beach will be closed to the public all day and all other beaches will remain open. Swimming is permitted only when lifeguards are on duty from 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Additionally, boaters at the Burnham and 31st Street Harbors can expect access to the lakefront to be significantly restricted after 4 p.m. Boaters are advised to adjust their plans accordingly. 

If You See Something, Say Something
The City reminds the public to be aware of their surroundings and to report suspicious activity. If you notice something suspicious, notify onsite security or call 9-1-1. If You See Something, Say Something is a national anti-terrorism public awareness campaign that emphasizes the importance of reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement authorities. 

As a reminder to residents, fireworks are illegal in the City of Chicago. If there is any type of firework activity in your neighborhood, please call 9-1-1. Residents can report illegal firework activity anonymously. 

The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) is looking forward to welcoming back large numbers of travelers at both O’Hare and Midway International Airports this holiday weekend. Travel numbers will reach their highest level since the pandemic began last year, with O’Hare International Airport expected to host more than a million passengers between Thursday, July 1 and Tuesday, July 6 - an increase of 240% over the same holiday weekend last year, based on projections from airline carriers.  

Effective June 29, the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) transitioned the City’s Travel Order to a Travel Advisory after three consecutive periods without any U.S. states in the orange warning tier (over 15 cases per 100,000 residents). No COVID-19 test or quarantine period is presently required to travel to the city of Chicago. Travel restrictions could be reinstated if CDPH sees a surge in cases. 

Travelers bound for Chicago’s airports this holiday weekend can make the most informed decisions about how to access any of the above airport services by visiting www.flychicago.com. The website also contains real-time information about flights, regular updates on traffic and weather, parking updates, taxicab wait times and other special alerts for the traveling public.  

The public is reminded that access to airport terminals at both O’Hare and Midway International Airports is restricted at all times to ticketed passengers, those assisting passengers, badged employees, and others with legitimate airport business. 
Important Announcements and Updates
Chicago Plan Commission (CPC) to Consider 42nd Ward Development Proposals on Thursday, July 15
On Thursday, July 15 at 10:00am, the Chicago Plan Commission (CPC) will host a virtual meeting to review proposed applications and/or amendments, including two proposals within the 42nd Ward, detailed below. Rules for public participation in virtual meetings are now available. A link to live stream the meeting will be added to CPC’s website on July 15. 

Illuminarium Chicago LLC
Proposed amendment to Institutional Planned Development #527 to allow Illuminarium Chicago LLC to offer commercial uses within the Crystal Garden space at Navy Pier. 

Illuminarium is designed to be a communal attraction and experience that takes place within an enclosed area. Virtual experiences can include an African Safari, underwater Ocean observation, visit to Mars, or being immersed in the life of Muhammad Ali or the music of Coldplay. Only internal remodeling is planned, and all light and sound would be contained within the area of the experience, and not visible to anyone outside of the building.  

RIU Hotel - 150 East Ontario Street 
A proposed planned development, submitted by RIU Chicago LLC, for the property generally located at 150 E. Ontario Street. The applicant is proposing to rezone the property from DX-12 (Downtown Mixed-Use District) to a Business Planned Development to construct a new 28-story hotel building, with an overall height of 345’, containing 388 hotel keys and two internal loading berths. A 6.40 FAR (Floor Area Ratio) bonus will be taken and the overall FAR of the planned development will be 18.4. 

To review project materials, please click on the following links to download the slideshow presentation and traffic study.

Should the Plan Commission recommend approving these proposals, the Committee on Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards will then review them at a subsequent public meeting, before being referred to the City Council for a final vote. 
BACP Updates: $15 Minimum Wage and Package Good Sales End at Midnight
The Department of Businesses Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) wants to remind businesses of new changes in place effective this month. As of July 1, workers at businesses with 21 or more employees will be guaranteed a minimum wage of $15 an hour, while workers at businesses with 4-20 employees will see their minimum wage raised to $14 an hour as part of a gradual move to a $15 an hour by 2023 for small businesses. Further, all domestic workers, including those that work for small employers (under 20 employees), will receive a minimum wage of $15 an hour beginning on August 1, 2021. 

Chicago businesses are required to post a notice with information for their employees on their rights under the Chicago Minimum Wage Ordinance – the notice is available in multiple languages on the Office of Labor Standards website. 

For Chicago businesses, all COVID-19 regulations are lifted effective June 26. While most regulations were lifted when the City entered Phase 5 on June 11, this means that the establishments with a Late Hour Liquor License will no longer need to have fully vaccinated customers only during late night operations. 

Additionally, while COVID-19 hour restrictions for Package Goods Licensees also expired on June 26, please be advised of the new, permanent hours of operation for establishments with a Package Goods License. As of June 26, when the COVID-19 hour restrictions were lifted, no establishment that holds a Package Goods License shall sell, permit to be sold or give away any alcoholic liquor between the hours of 12:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. on Mondays through Saturdays and between the hours of 12:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Sundays, except that a supermarket may commence the sale of package goods at 8:00 a.m. on Sundays. 

Furthermore, all licenses issued by BACP under Title 4 or Title 9 of the Municipal Code of Chicago that were extended temporarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic will expire on Thursday, July 15. Impacted licenses with an expiration date between March 15, 2020, and June 15, 2021 that were extended during the COVID-19 pandemic must be renewed by July 15, 2021 in order to continue legal operations in Chicago. 

Impacted licensees are expected to comply with required license fees in order to renew. Business licensees can renew online via chicagobusinessdirect.org.  
Movies in the Parks are Back this Summer!
(image courtesy of the Chicago Park District)  

The big screen in your backyard, Movies in the Parks returns this summer, bringing Hollywood movies and local films to local parks for the twentieth season. Join us in-person at the parks for classics from the Golden Age of Hollywood and retro childhood favorites, to the best family-friendly box office favorites from recent years. 

The Chicago Park District strives to bring the best possible entertainment and events to your parks, while adhering to and modeling all current, relevant COVID safety and mitigation strategies as recommended or required by local, state and federal guidelines. Below is a schedule of movies that will be shown in or near parks in the 42nd Ward throughout the summer.  

Millennium Park  
201 E. Randolph Street (Jay Pritzker Pavilion)  

  • Tuesday, August 24 at 6:00pm – The Wiz  
  • Tuesday, August 31 at 6:00pm – The Dark Knight  

Navy Pier  
600 E. Grand Avenue (Lake Stage in Polk Bros Park)  

  • Thursday, July 8 at 6:30pm – Boomerang  
  • Monday, July 12 at 6:30pm – 42  
  • Thursday, July 15 at 6:30pm – Pretty Woman  
  • Monday, July 19 at 6:30pm – Mighty Ducks  
  • Thursday, July 22 at 6:30pm – Trainwreck  
  • Monday, July 26 at 6:30pm – Caddyshack 
  • Thursday, July 29 at 6:30pm – The Big Sick  
  • Monday, August 2 at 6:30pm – Creed  
  • Thursday, August 5 at 6:30pm – Love and Basketball  
  • Monday, August 9 at 6:30pm – Cars 3  
  • Thursday, August 12 at 6:30pm – Stranger Than Fiction  
  • Monday, August 16 at 6:30pm – A League of Their Own  
  • Thursday, August 19 at 6:30pm – Bridesmaids  
  • Monday, August 23 at 6:30pm – Invictus  
  • Thursday, August 26 at 6:30pm – When Harry Met Sally  
  • Monday, August 30 at 6:30pm – Rocky IV  

Lake Shore Park  
808 N. Lake Shore Drive 

  • Saturday, July 31 at 8:15pm – Hidden Figures  
  • Saturday, August 14 at 8:15pm – Casablanca  
  • Wednesday, September 1 at 8:00pm – The Lion King 

Bartelme (Mary) Park  
115 S. Sangamon Street  

  • Thursday, July 8 at 8:30pm – 10 Things I Hate About You  
  • Saturday, August 28 at 8:00pm – Clueless  

All movies begin at dusk. If you're unsure when dusk is, visit any weather site to see the time of dusk each day. Call (312) 742-1134 for daily listings and weather-related cancellations. For more information and updates, please visit https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/movies. 
"Make Summer Yours" Programming for Chicago's Youth
Earlier this week, the City launched “Make Summer Yours,” an all-ages and citywide approach to summer programming across all 81 Library locations. From June 28 through August 22, “Make Summer Yours” offers a mix of online and in-person events and resources focused on education, engagement, and safety. This year’s theme explores public art, creative expression, and community activism.

Chicago Public Library’s research-based and award-winning Summer Learning Challenge for children and teens is designed to develop literacy skills and provide opportunities for cultural enrichment and civic engagement outside of the structured classroom setting. According to research from the Brookings Institute, children who are not engaged in learning over the summer lose up to three months of math and science knowledge, which puts them significantly behind their peers.

For kids 0-13 and their caregivers, “Start With Art” explores identity, community, and creative expression through interactive challenges, reading, games, grab-and-go activity kits, and events. Participation in the Summer Learning Challenge encourages 20 minutes of daily reading and completing five thematic activities—such as visiting the library, examining a neighborhood mural, or creating a piece of art. 

The Teen Summer Challenge, “Make Space. Take Action.,” for teens 13-18 encourages self-expression and local activism through art, social justice, digital media production, and neighborhood greenification. “Make Space. Take Action.” highlights include grab-and-go kits developed in collaboration with the Museum of Contemporary Art, social media internships, and multiple mural installations coordinated with local artists. CPL librarians and staff will also be trained as My Chi. My Future navigators to help young people find activities and opportunities to stay engaged all summer long.

For summer registration for kids and teens, mainstage virtual events, and more information, visit chipublib.org/summer. 
Check Swim Conditions Before Heading to the Beaches this Summer
The Chicago Park District manages the city's 26 miles of open and free lakefront for the enjoyment of Chicago residents and visitors. Swimming is permitted at beaches when lifeguards are on duty from 11am - 7pm daily. Swimming anywhere else along the lakefront, or at a beach, when lifeguards aren't on duty, is strictly prohibited. 

Swim conditions at all of Chicago's beaches can be found here. Swim conditions are updated each day around 11:00am based on weather and surf conditions, and around 1:30 pm based on water quality conditions. Flags may be updated throughout the day as needed. What does the flag mean?

  • Green: Swimming is permitted. Weather conditions are fair and water quality is good.
  • Yellow: Caution is advised. Weather conditions are unpredictable or bacteria levels are elevated.
  • Red: Swimming is prohibited. Weather conditions are dangers or bacteria levels are high.

To help make it a a safe summer for beach visitors and staff, please click on the following links to learn more about:


For questions regarding Chicago beaches, call 312-74-BEACH (312-742-3224) or 312- 742-PLAY (7529). 
Police Alerts and Community Notices
Upcoming Events
Grant Park Music Festival Returns July 2!
The Grant Park Music Festival is thrilled to present another season of world-class music-making—free of charge—on Chicago's lakefront. In accordance with Phase 5 regulations to safely and fully reopen the city, all Grant Park Music Festival concerts at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion will be restored to full seating capacity this summer. As such, no reservations are required, and seating on the Great Lawn and in the Seating Bowl is available on a first-come, first-served basis. 
(photo courtesy of DCASE) 

The 2021 lineup includes Festival favorites, like the Grieg Piano Concerto, the New World Symphony, the William Tell Overture, Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun plus plenty of family fun with Carnival of the Animals, Classic Broadway and the annual Independence Day Salute. 

Outside food or drink, including beer and wine, is welcome at the Pritzker Pavilion for all Festival concerts (excluding the Independence Day Salute, where it is available for purchase at Millennium Park concession tents). 

Seating in the bowl is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Food and drinks are welcome in the Seating Bowl. Coolers and picnic baskets should be stored under your seat during the concert and cannot block the aisles. 

A full calendar of events can be found here and for more information about the Grant Park Music Festival, please visit their website. 
Millennium Park Summer Workouts
July 3 - August 28
Millennium Park Summer Workouts will return in-person on the Great Lawn featuring Tai Chi, Yoga, Pilates, and Zumba. Detailed schedule for Saturday mornings will be as follows:

  • Tai Chi 8:30-9:15am
  • Yoga 9:30-10:15am
  • Pilates 10:30-11:15am
  • Zumba 11:30-12:15pm

These workouts will be hosted every Saturday starting July 3 through August 28. Please click here to view the full schedule.
Free Museum Days this Summer
The 42nd Ward is home to (and near) several world-class museums! Check out the following museums free admission days below.

The Field Museum
Active military personnel and Illinois teachers receive complimentary admission.
  • July 12 and 14
  • August 23

Museum of Contemporary Art
  • While suggested fees are posted, the MCA has a pay-what-you-can policy—no visitors are turned away.

Museum of Science and Industry
  • July 14
  • August 11
  • September 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30

Adler Planetarium
Illinois Resident Discount Days
  • July 3-4, July 10-11, and July 17-18
Taste of Chicago To-Go
July 7 - July 11
Taste of Chicago To-Go will return this summer with special events around the city, including pop-up cooking demonstrations, the return of the “Community Eats” community meals program, and other special events promoting Chicago’s amazing restaurant industry.

For the full schedule, please click here.
"ABT Across America" Presented by Auditorium Theatre
Thursday, July 8 at 7:30pm
(Photo of Catherine Hurlin in the Don Quixote pas de deux by Erin Baiano, courtesy Vail Dance Festival)

American Ballet Theatre (ABT) is one of the great dance companies in the world and is internationally celebrated as a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and extending the great legacy of classical dancing. Presented by the Auditorium Theatre, ABT will bring 20 acclaimed artist-athletes to a live performance outdoors at Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park as part of the company’s cross-country road trip, ABT Across America.

This FREE 50-minute performance features the Chicago premiere of Lauren Lovette’s La Follia Variations; Jessica Lang’s Let Me Sing Forevermore set to the music of Tony Bennett; the famous pas de deux from Don Quixote; and Indestructible Light created by Darrell Grand Moultrie during quarantine and featuring music by Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Billy Strayhorn. 

Reserved bowl seating is sold out for this event. Those who have not reserved seating can still attend that evening on a first-come, first-served basis in both the bowl and lawn seating areas. Doors open at 6:00pm and the event starts at 7:30pm.
2021 Chicago City Markets

Chicago City Markets sell fresh seasonal produce, flowers, prepared foods, unique Chicago-made products and rare finds – at Chicago’s longest running farmers market on Daley Plaza, the historic Maxwell Street Market and a dozen more community markets in neighborhoods across Chicago.

These markets are typically open from May to October. Below is more information about participating markets in or near the 42nd Ward:
Tuesdays
SOAR Farmers Market at MCA Plaza
220 E. Chicago Ave.
June 1 - October, 7am - 2pm

Wednesdays
1817 N. Clark St.
May 5–October 27, 7am–1pm

Thursdays
Daley Plaza City Market
50 W. Washington St.
May 27–September 30, 7am–2pm

1936 S. Michigan Ave.
June 17–September 30, 4–8 pm
Saturdays
1817 N. Clark St.
May 1–October 30, 7am–1pm

Division Street City Market
100 W. Division St.
May 15–October 30, 7am–12pm

115 S. Sangamon St.
June 5–October 30, 8am–1pm
BACP Small Business E-Expo
Thursday, July 22
Save the Date for BACP’s first Remote Expo of 2021! This year’s expos will be better than ever, with the return of over 30 exhibitors offering 1:1 business guidance. The interactive expo will also feature a variety of webinars, panels and a keynote speaker that will help people in all stages of their entrepreneurial journey. Make sure to mark Thursday, July 22, 2021 in your calendar and visit this page for updates as the expo approaches. 

For questions please email BACPoutreach@cityofchicago.org or call (312) 744-2086.
U.S. Navy Blue Angels in Chicago August 21-22
There will be new and reimagined air show events in August in place of this year's Chicago Air and Water Show. City of Chicago presents the U.S. Navy Blue Angels will be a special solo demonstration by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels along the lakefront on August 21 & 22 from 12–1pm. (On August 20, practice runs from 10am–2pm.) The best viewing locations along the lakefront are between Oak Street and Fullerton Avenue.  

The mission of the Blue Angels is to showcase the teamwork and professionalism of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps through flight demonstrations and community outreach while inspiring a culture of excellence and service to country. Stay tuned to Reilly Reports for updates and details throughout the summer. 
42nd Ward CAPS Meetings
CAPS meetings offer city residents an opportunity to address crime and safety issues directly with the beat officers who patrol their neighborhood, as well as to provide ongoing feedback, which help the police to monitor crime issues.

Attention Residents: New in 2021, each beat will be hosting its own meeting, departing from the sector model. They will also be virtual (via Zoom) until further notice.

The 1st District will be hosting the following Zoom meetings this month, please email CAPS.001District@chicagopolice.org to register.

  • Beat 112 - July 6 at 6:00pm
  • Beat 113 - July 7 at 3:00pm
  • Beat 122 - July 12 at 6:00pm
  • Beat 121 - July 13 at 3:00pm

Please make sure to confirm the details for upcoming meetings with your Police District's CAPS office. 

1st District: 312-745-4290
12th District: 312-746-8396
18th District: 312-742-5870

To find your district and beat, please click here.
42nd Ward Street Closures and Construction Notices
Filming in the Ward This Week

Levinson Locations Shoot - Loop
Levinson Locations will be filming a walk and talk scene on the Wells Street Bridge on Friday, July 2 at 9pm to Saturday, July 3 at 9am. During the filming, parking will be prohibited at the following locations:

  • North side of W Kinzie St from N Orleans St to N Wells St
  • West side of N Franklin St from W Hubbard St to W Kinzie

There will be intermittent closures of the sidewalk on the west side of Wells St Bridge, between Wacker and Merchandise Mart Plaza.
 
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Bri Malkowski (Location Manager) at (815) 451-3415.
 
Story - River North
On Tuesday, July 6 from 4am-11am, Story will be filming inside Giordano's located at 730 N. Rush. During the filming, parking will be prohibited at the following locations:

  • North side of Superior, from State to Rush 
  • South side of Superior, from Wabash to Rush  
  • West side of Rush, from Superior Huron to Superior  
  • West side of Wabash from Superior to Huron  

The Bear - River North
Scenes for The Bear will be filmed inside Mr. Beef located at 666 N. Orleans on Tuesday, July 6 to Friday, July 11. During the filming, parking will be prohibited at the following locations:

  • West Side of Orleans St from Huron St to Erie St ( Tuesday, July 6 at 6am to Friday, July 11 at 11pm)
  • South Side of Huron St from Orleans St to 359 W Huron St ( Tuesday, July 6 at 6am to Friday, July 11 at 11pm)

Tower Crane Removal: 609 West Randolph
 
On Tuesday, July 6 to Thursday July 8, Skender Construction will be removing a tower crane at 609 West Randolph Street. During the removal, Randolph Street, between Jefferson Street and 615 West Randolph Street will be closed to vehicular traffic. 
 
Skender Construction will have barricades, detour signs and flaggers in-place throughout the lift. The tower crane will be removed between 8am-8pm.

GPR Scan: 423 West Washington Boulevard
 
Stevenson Crane will be using a GPR scanner in front of 423 W. Washington on Tuesday, July 6, from 9am-4pm. They are using the scanner in preparation for a future crane lift. 
 
During the use of the GPR scanner, the following will be closed:

  • Sidewalk on the south side of Washington, from Canal to a point 200' east thereof
  • Bike lane on the south side of Washington, from Canal to a point 200' east thereof
  • Curb lane/traffic lane on the south side of Washington, from Canal to a point 200' east thereof

Stevenson will have flaggers, barricades, and detour signs in-place throughout the use of the GPR Scanner.
 
Crane Lift: 651 West Washington
 
On Wednesday, July 7 , from 9am-4pm, there will be a crane lift at 651 West Washington. During the lift, the following will be closed:
 
  • Sidewalk on the south side of Washington, from the interstate to a point 200' east thereof
  • Curb lane on the south side of Washington, from the interstate to a point 200' east thereof
  • Traffic/bike lane on the south side of Washington, from the interstate to a point 200' east thereof
 
Throughout the lift, there will be flaggers, detour signs, and barricades in-place.
 
Monroe Bridge Closure
 
The Chicago Department of Transportation announced the Monroe Street Bridge over the Chicago River will be closed for maintenance on Wednesday, July 7 to Friday, July 9 from 9:30 am to 2:30 p.m.
 
Eastbound traffic should use the following detour: Monroe, Clinton, Adams, Franklin, Monroe.

Sundays on State
 
On Sunday, July 11, from 4am-11:59pm, State Street from Lake Street to Madison will be closed to vehicular traffic. Motorists will be able to travel eastbound/westbound on Lake Street, Randolph Street, Washington Street and Madison Street. 

Srebrenica Genocide Commemoration Day Parade
 
The Bosniak Brotherhood of Genoicde Survivors is planning a Srebrenica Genocide Commemoration Day Parade on Sunday, July 11, from 2pm-4pm. There will be approximately 70-100 people in attendance. The parade route is as follows:
 
  • Beginning at 500 N. Michigan, south to Adams Street, west to Federal Plaza at 219 South Dearborn Street
 
Traffic may be disrupted/delayed throughout the parade, when traveling in the area please use caution.   
 
Lakeshore East Resurfacing Repairs
 
The Chicago Department of Transportation will be resurfacing the following streets in July and August (weather dependent):
 
  • Westshore Drive, from South Water Street to Benton Place (7/14 - 8/5)
  • Benton Place, from Field Boulevard to Westshore Drive (7/14 - 8/5)
  • Randolph Street, from Field Boulevard to Harbor Drive (7/14 - 8/5)

Gas Line Installation: 354 North Union
 
On Monday, July 19, Peoples Gas will begin installation of a new gas line for 354 N. Union. Throughout the project, the west side of North Union, from West Kinzie to 354 N. Union will be closed. 
 
All work is expected to be completed at the beginning of August 2021.
 
Wacker Drive Repainting Project
 
In late-July, the Chicago Department of Transportation will begin repainting Lower/Middle Wacker Drive, from North Field Boulevard to Lake Shore Drive. Work hours will be 8am-8pm, 6-days a week. 
 
CDOT will be sandblasting/repainting 80' sections of Wacker Drive at a time. The sandblasting/repainting area will be contained and exhaust fans will be in-place to remove dust and fumes.
 
Traffic will be maintained in both directions at all times, and access to parking garages will not be blocked. 
 
This project is expected to be completed mid-December 2021. 

ComEd Vault Roof Replacement
Starting in mid-July, ComEd will be replacing a sidewalk vault roof at 344 West Erie Street. Work hours will be 8am-3pm, 5-days a week. 
 
Throughout the work, the sidewalk and curb lane on the north side of West Erie, from North Orleans to the first alley west thereof will be closed. 
 
There will be barricades, detour signs, and flaggers on-site throughout the project. All work is expected to be completed by mid-August (weather dependent). 
 
Demolition: 113 East Oak Street
 
At the end of June, Atlas began demolition of 113 East Oak Street. During the first week of the project, work hours will be 8am to 8pm. Work hours for the remainder of the demolition will be 8am to 5pm. Throughout the project, the following will be closed:
 
  • 50’ of the sidewalk in front of 113 East Oak Street (the sidewalk will reopen each night after work is completed)
  • 100’ of the curb lane in front of 113 East Oak Street (the sidewalk will reopen each night after work is completed
 
The demolition is expected to be completed by mid-July (weather dependent). 

Vaulted Sidewalk Fill-in: 600 W. Jackson
Starting at the beginning of July, the vaulted sidewalks adjacent to 600 W. Jackson will be filled and the sidewalks repaired. During the work, the following will be closed:

  • Sidewalk/curb lane on the west side of Jefferson, from Jackson to Adams
  • Sidewalk/curb lane on the north side of Jackson, from Jefferson to the first alley west thereof

There will be detour signs, barricades, and flaggers on-side throughout the project. All work is expected to be finished by the end of July. 

Vaulted Sidewalk Repair: 20 N. Wacker Drive
 
Starting at the end of June, repairs to the vaulted sidewalk at 20 North Wacker Drive will begin. Throughout the work, the sidewalk on the west side of Wacker, from Washington to a point 100' south thereof will be closed. Construction fencing will be used to enclose the sidewalk and detour signs will be in-place.
 
Pedestrians will be directed to the east side of North Wacker at West Washington and West Madison. 
 
The project is expected to be completed in late September 2021.

354 North Union Construction

At the beginning of April, the Onni Group began construction of a 33 story residential building with 373 units. Work hours will be 8am-8pm, daily. 

Parking will be prohibited on North Union, from West Kinzie to the cul-de-sac west thereof throughout the project. All construction equipment and vehicles will be staged on the Onni Group’s property. This project will take approximately two years to complete. 

Vaulted Sidewalk Fill-in: 8 East Randolph

In early May, the vaulted sidewalk adjacent to 8 East Randolph Street began to be filled and the sidewalk repaired. During the work, the sidewalk on the east side of State Street, between Randolph Street and Benton Place will be closed to pedestrian traffic.  

The contractor will construct a protected pathway for pedestrians, using jersey barricades, in the curb lane on the east side of State Street, between Randolph Street and Benton Place. All work is expected to be completed by mid-September. 

RCN Infrastructure Relocation

In early March, RCN began to relocate conduits on St. Clair Street, from Erie Street to Illinois Street. Work hours will be 8am-5pm.

The project includes infrastructure trenching in the street and on the sidewalk. There will be intermittent lane and sidewalk closures throughout the project. RCN will have barricades, traffic control, and detour signs in place during the project. Two-way traffic will be maintained throughout the project. 

This project is expected to be completed mid-July 2021 (weather dependent). 

430 N. Michigan Lobby Renovation
 
Starting in mid-September, GNP Realty Partners will be renovating the lobby at 430 N. Michigan Avenue. Throughout the project, there will be a 40’ urban canopy on the sidewalk in front of the building. In order to place the canopy on the sidewalk, the planter bed and City Information Panel (CIP) at this location will be temporarily removed. Both the planter bed and CIP will be reinstalled upon completion of the project. 
 
The project is expected to be completed in mid-December. 

South Water Street Viaduct Replacement

In March 2021, the Chicago Department of Transportation began demolition of the South Water Street Viaduct, between Lower Beaubien Court and Stetson Street. Work hours are 8am-8pm, daily. 

As of May 10, vehicular and pedestrian access will be prohibited on the Upper and Lower levels of South Water Street, between Lower Beaubien Court and North Stetson Street. There will be barricades and detour signs in-place throughout the duration of the project. 

This project is expected to be completed in July 2022 (weather dependent). 

Renovations at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 East Washington Street

On February 15, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) began renovating the Grand Army of the Republic Rotunda and Hall at the Cultural Center, located at 78 East Washington Street. Throughout the project, DCASE will be using the Cultural Centers loading zone at 129 North Garland Court as storage for the project and to place their construction dumpster. 

On Monday, April 19, canopies will be installed at the following locations:
  • South side of Randolph, from Michigan to a point 50' west thereof
  • West side of Michigan, from Randolph to a point 75' south thereof

The project is expected to be completed February 2022. 

Construction: 609 West Randolph Street
 
Construction of a 15-story commercial building at 609 West Randolph Street began in mid-January. Throughout the duration of the project, the following will be closed:

  • Curb/Traffic lane and sidewalk on south side of West Randolph, from North Jefferson to 621 West Randolph

There will be a canopy with a concrete crash wall and plywood enclosure for pedestrian use in the closed traffic lane on West Randolph, from North Jefferson to 621 West Randolph.

There will be detour signs, barricades, and flaggers in place for the duration of the project. This project is expected to be completed at the beginning of 2022 (weather dependent).

Aon Plaza Renovations

Renovations on the Aon Plaza located at 200 East Randolph Street began in December 2020. Throughout the project, the sidewalk on Upper East Randolph Street in front of the plaza, and on Lower East Randolph Street, will be reduced to 6’. 
 
The project is expected to be completed by August 2021 (weather dependent). 

Construction: 61 West Erie Street

In November 2020, LG Construction began construction of a five-story, 28 unit apartment building at 61 West Erie Street. A small crane will be placed in the traffic lane in front of 61 W. Erie Street from Monday, March 15 to Tuesday, March 16. The crane will be removed while work is not occurring and the traffic lane will reopen.

Throughout the construction process, the following will be closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic:

  • 100' of sidewalk and curb lane in front of 61 W. Erie Street
  • The alley adjacent to the west side of 61 W. Erie Street

There will be detour signs, barricades, and flaggers in place for the duration of the project.

Façade Work: 160 North LaSalle Street

Bowa Construction began work in October 2020 to perform façade and cladding work at 160 North LaSalle Street. During the work, there will be scaffolding on the east, north, and south sides of the building. 

All work is expected to be completed in June 2021.

Overnight Parking Ban Downtown

Until further notice, overnight parking will be restricted on the following streets during the weekend:  

  • Both sides of Oak, between Michigan and Clark 
  • South side of Oak, between LaSalle and Wells 
  • Both sides of Chicago, between Michigan and Wells 
  • Both sides of Ohio, between Michigan and Wells 
  • Both sides of Hubbard, between Michigan and Wells 
  • North side of Illinois, between Dearborn and Clark 
  • Both sides of Illinois, between Wabash and Dearborn 
  • Both sides of Rush, between Grand and Ohio 
  • Both sides of Rush, between Erie and Oak 
  • Both sides of Wabash, between the Chicago River and Grand 
  • Both sides of State, between Kinzie and Oak 
  • Both sides of Erie, from Rush to Wells 
  • Both sides of Huron from Rush to Dearborn
  • Both sides of New Street, from Illinois to North Water
  • Both sides of Columbus Drive, from Monroe to Balbo 
  • North side of Wacker Drive, from Wabash to Michigan
  • North side of Wacker Drive, from Franklin to Columbus 
  • Both sides of Wacker Drive, from State to Wabash 
  • Both sides of Stetson, from Randolph to Wacker 
  • Both sides of Columbus Drive, from Randolph to Wacker 
  • Both sides of Beaubien Court, from Randolph to Lake 
  • Both sides of Randolph, from Harbor to Michigan 
  • Both sides of Ohio, from Michigan to Fairbanks

As always, please make sure to read all posted signage before parking your vehicle downtown. 

One Chicago Square-1 W Chicago Pedestrian and Traffic Impacts

Although fencing is already in place for the sidewalk closure, pedestrians still have access to the sidewalk, but should exercise caution when walking by the construction site. 
 
The Curb Lanes along Chicago, State, Superior, and Dearborn will remain a No Parking/Tow Zone throughout the project, to allow for demolition, and then the protected pedestrian walkway.

The sidewalk along the east side of Dearborn, from Superior to Chicago, has been closed to pedestrian traffic. Pedestrians will be rerouted to the west side of Dearborn. 
 
Please stay tuned to Reilly Reports as additional construction updates and closures will be announced.