DNC Updates

The Democratic National Convention begins next month. In advance of the event, the United States Secret Service has been canvasing areas of the 3rd Ward affected by the DNC to get feedback from residents and businesses.

The DNC is scheduled from Aug. 19 through Aug. 22 at the United Center and McCormick Place.

The DNC’s official security perimeter is still in development. Once finalized, information regarding traffic, parking and other potential impacts will be made public. As part of the agency’s canvassing efforts, the Secret Service released general impact maps outlining the areas surrounding the convention that could be affected by the convention’s security plan.

The maps (linked here) are tentative and do not contain exact security measures, such as street closures or checkpoints. They are intended to help the public prepare for the upcoming convention by providing initial information on whether residents’ homes, businesses or commutes might be affected by the security plan.

The City of Chicago has also released a FAQ to help residents plan for the event. To download the document please click here. As more information becomes publicly available, Alderman Dowell's office will distribute it to residents immediately.

Alderman Dowell Embarks on Fact Finding Mission for Haitian Migrants

In June, Alderman Dowell participated in an important fact-finding trip with the Haitian Bridge Alliance and the Organization of African Unity to the Mexican border near Tijuana to hear and learn more about the migration challenges and experiences of Haitians and other people of the African Diaspora. The Haitian Bridge Alliance is the only black led organization working in Mexico to assist black migrants enter into the U.S.

As part of the mission, Alderman Dowell visited the Iris Avenue Transit Center in San Ysidro where approximately 200-300 people a day are dropped off by Custom Border Protection after they leave the U.S. detention center from crossing the border between Mexico and the U.S. Most black migrants cross over in Arizona (Africans mostly Senegalese), California (a diverse black migrant population including Haitians), and Texas (Haitian). These are people who cross without inspection (without CBP1- a paper which recognizes a person as an asylum seeker). CBP1 can only be accessed online and there are many barriers to, and misinformation about, getting an appointment for asylum approval.

While on the mission, Alderman Dowell assisted the Haitian Bridge Alliance and groups Like We Are All We Got and others provide resources like shoes, clothing, toiletries and food to new migrants. While she was there several migrants from Mauritania and Niger stopped in for assistance. The airport supports the organizational efforts by providing designated space for the migrants, high speed internet, and phone charging stations. The organizations also help migrants with orientation to the U.S., helping them access their flights, and more. Alderman Dowell has been working diligently for years to in City Council uplift the needs of migrants from the African Diaspora so that our City and our State can meet the needs of these individuals fairly, equitably, and humanely. Please be on the lookout for an announcement from Alderman Dowell on a future public meeting on this topic.

Pet Vaccine Clinic Hosted by Alderman Dowell/CACC

On Saturday, June 22nd Alderman Dowell once again partnered with Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) to host a Pet Vaccine and Microchip Clinic for our 3rd Ward family pets. Thank you to the CACC staff and veterinarians who cared for all the pets in attendance, and to 3rd Ward staff Allyson Allison, Lucy Macedo, George Willborn, Yvonne Green, Renee Barrera, Tina Ford, Sharonica Obadele, and summer intern Matthew Chico, who helped with the pet's human family members. At the event, dogs were able to get all their required vaccines, register with the City of Chicago (as required!), and receive microchip services, all for a fraction of the cost of receiving these services from private providers. If you missed this event, CACC offers neighborhood clinics throughout the year. A list of other event dates and locations can be found here.

Alderman Dowell Celebrates New Home for Black Fire Brigade

Alderman Dowell was happy to be part of the celebration of the 6th anniversary of the Black Fire Brigade and for the ribbon cutting on their new home at 5349 South Wabash. Congrats to Lt. Quention “Q” Curtis and Terri Winston for their leadership and commitment to ensure our young men and women build sustainable careers as first responders.

Southside Youth Explosion

The 3rd Ward participated in the Southside Youth Explosion event on June 1st. Thank you to Yvonne Green, Allyson Allison, Lucy Macedo, and George Willborn for staffing this event.

The Southside Youth Explosion event provided food, fun and resources to attendees, bringing together businesses, community organizations, and celebrities to kick off the summer of fun. Thank you to Alderwomen Taylor (20th Ward) and Coleman (16th Ward) for hosting this great event.

NASCAR Chicago Street Race Reminder

The NASCAR Chicago Street Race is scheduled for July 6th through 7th. This event will have a significant impact on community residents, especially those that live in the South Loop neighborhood.

Chicagoans can download the community brochure, maps, street closure information, FAQs, parking restrictions, and more at NASCARChicago.com/localinfo/, email NASCAR directly at info@nascarchicago.com or call their official race hotline (888-629-7223), which will be available July 1-7 from 8am to 9pm daily.

Additionally, NASCAR has conducted extensive outreach in the South Loop neighborhood in advance of the race. This includes: canvassing the area and connecting with nearly 1,600 business & resident buildings to distribute parking notices, traffic plan brochures and resource guide info; distributing 11,000+ parking placards to resident buildings & businesses within the Local Access Only areas on race weekend; mailing 78,000+ traffic plan brochures to addresses in the 60601, 60602, 60603, 60604, 60605, 60606, 60611 area codes, and installing yard signs throughout Grant Park with QR codes directing to the local info web site & reminding of dog park, tennis court & pickleball court schedules. For the latest race information and a street closure guide, please use the NASCAR Chicago link above.

Phi Beta Sigma and Alderman Dowell Celebrate Father's Day

Thank you to the men of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. for serving up a delicious array of food and desserts to the men of Willa Rawls Manor Apartments in honor of Father’s Day. Always giving back, please know Alderman Dowell and the entire 3rd Ward staff appreciate the fraternity's efforts in the ward! Kudos to Donald Cole, President.

2328 S. Michigan Ave. Gets Plan Commission, Zoning Approval

A 256-unit, mixed-income, mixed-use development to replace the closed Burger King at 2328 S. Michigan Ave. received approval from the Chicago Plan Commission and the City Council Committee on Zoning in June. This project was presented to the community during the December 6, 2023, March 5, 2024 and May 7, 2024 Near South Planning Board meetings. Because of these meetings, the design of the development has been updated significantly to meet community concerns and better represent the character of the Motor Row neighborhood.

The development will consist of two building masses, one lower 7-story building along Michigan Ave. with an 18-story, 170 ft. tall building located along the alley. 2328 S. Michigan Ave. will contain 256 total units, 64 of which will be affordable. The residential units consist of a mix of studio, 1-bed and 2-bed dwellings, with 21 units offered to individuals at or below 50% of Area Median Income (AMI), and 4 units at or below 40% AMI. 10 parking spaces will be onsite, and the development will contain approximately 3,000 sq. ft. of commercial space, with a large centrally-located green courtyard for tenant use. Parking and loading access will exclusively be provided from the rear alley system, and no Michigan Avenue curb cuts are planned.

The project will create 165 full-time construction jobs, and 14 full time permanent jobs, with a commitment to achieve all City Participation Goals. The developers will make a $1.66 million contribution to the Neighborhood Opportunity Fund, and are asking for NO public financing or subsidy from the City of Chicago. The building will replace a vacant building with 150 linear feet of activated pedestrian facing retail along Michigan Ave. Last, the building meets the City's affordable housing goals by creating 64 affordable units on site.

Summer 2024 Community Grant Finalists Awarded by Mayor Johnson, Alderman Dowell

Mayor Brandon Johnson announced the Summer 2024 Community Grant finalists at the newly redesigned Parkway Ballroom (4455 S. King Dr.) in the 3rd Ward. Two of the grants went to businesses located in Washington Park. Congrats to Kamau Murray owner of XS Tennis who received a grant to construct an addition to the existing athletic facility building to provide on-site food and beverage to serve local and visiting patrons. And, Evelyn Shelton, owner and chef of Evelyn’s Food Love Rooftop Bar and Deck who received a grant to renovate her restaurant space and add a rooftop deck and bar to the existing structure. Chef Cliff Rome of Rome’s Joy Catering, who hosted the event, has created a brand new and modern Parkway Ballroom. Check it out!

3rd Ward's Own Truth Restaurant Opens Location at 57th St. Beach

Congratulations to Peytyn Willborn on the grand opening of Truth on the Beach, Chicago’s newest summertime vibe at the 57th Street Beach in Hyde Park. What a great spot for tacos, burritos, ice cream, drinks, music and more! Check out Truth on the Beach's latest updates and happening here.

4520 S. State St. Receives Community Development Commission Approval

The Chicago Community Development Commission (CDC) approved up to $10 million in TIF support for BMT-I LLC's planned two-building, 52-unit housing complex in Grand Boulevard at 4520 S. State St. The $40 million project will include 42 affordable units for households earning up to 60% AMI.

Quinn AME Church Seeks Permit Fee Waiver for Construction

Quinn AME Church (2401 S. Wabash Ave.), Chicago's first African American congregation, is seeking a permit fee waiver to construct a museum in the basement of the church, a parking lot, and to renovate the church's auditorium and fellowship hall. Quinn AME Church is a landmarked historic property in the 3rd Ward. As more information on the permit and construction project is made available, Alderman Dowell will alert the community immediately.

City of Chicago Budget Public Meetings

The City of Chicago has announced the dates and locations for the City’s annual Budget Engagement Round Tables, where residents and community leaders will be invited to share their priorities regarding City services and engage in conversations with the Mayor, Budget Director, and City department leaders on key programs. Like last year, the Johnson administration has expanded upon previous engagement events to include a fourth event focused on youth ages 13-24.

To register for the round tables, please access links above or go to the FY2025 Budget Engagement website. Pre-registration is requested to assist with planning but is not required. ASL and live-captioning will be available. If you require language interpretation or any other accommodation, please contact communityengagement@cityofchicago.org by Friday, July 19, 2024.

New Minimum Wage, Sick Leave Laws Go Into Effect July 1st

On July 1, 2024, the scheduled annual increase to Chicago’s minimum wage, implementation of the Paid Leave and Paid Sick and Safe Leave Ordinance, and a scheduled enhancement of the Fair Workweek Ordinance requirements went into effect. To view informational flyers, Frequently Asked Questions, and public notices on Chicago’s labor laws, visit Chicago.gov/Labor Standards.   

Effective July 1, 2024. Chicago’s minimum wage is now $16.20, with the subsidized minimum wage set at $15.00. The tiered minimum wage for large and small businesses has been eliminated. The first phase out of the 5-year scheduled elimination of the tipped wage credit also begins. Tipped workers who earn a subminimum wage of $11.02 per hour will receive an 8 percent per year increase until the wage reaches parity with the standard minimum wage on July 1, 2028.

The Chicago Paid Leave and Paid Sick and Safe Leave Ordinance, which guarantees up to five days of paid leave and five days of paid sick leave for all of Chicago’s workers for employees who work at least 80 hours within any 120-day period, went into effect July 1st. Also going into effect is the Fair Workweek Law which requires certain employers to provide workers with a predictable work schedule and compensation for schedule changes.

Click here to View law-specific fact sheets for all Chicago Labor Laws, as well as additional resources focused on Chicago's Paid Leave and Paid Sick Leave Ordinance. To file a labor standards complaint, workers can use the CHI 311 system (call 3-1-1, use the CHI311 mobile app, or visit 311.chicago.gov).

For inquiries, please email BACPLaborStandards@cityofchicago.org. 

South Loop Event Parking Restrictions

Parking restrictions are in place for the South Loop from Roosevelt Road to Cermak Rd. from Lake Shore Drive to Clark St. during all Chicago Bears football games and many other Soldier Field events. Wintrust Arena events have been removed from the parking restrictions. Vehicles parked in the South Loop without a valid South Loop Event Parking Pass, South Loop Event Guest Pass or Residential Permit Parking pass (for Residential Permit Parking Streets ONLY) are subject to ticketing or towing.

For a complete list of Soldier Field events, please visit www.soldierfield.com/events/all. The 3rd Ward is providing the list below as a courtesy to residents and visitors and does not assume liability for the accuracy of the monthly list of South Loop events. All Soldier Field events are subject to change, including cancellation or the scheduling of additional events. It is your responsibility to adhere to the parking restrictions in place. 

Chicago Fire vs. Philadelphia Union

Wednesday, July 3rd at 7:30 pm

Chicago Fire vs. NYC Football Club

Saturday, July 13th at 7:30 pm

George Strait Concert

Saturday, July 20th at 5:45 pm

Real Madrid vs. AC Milan

Wednesday, July 31st at 7:30 pm

Mise en Place Culinary & Hospitality Workforce Program

Looking to start a career in the hospitality industry? Enroll in Mise En Place culinary training program in Bronzeville. Our 4-week kitchen and classroom program provides a range of skills to prepare individuals for success in the industry. All applicants must be 16+ years of age, be unemployed or underemployed, provide valid ID, income and residency documents. To apply email jasmineew@romesjoy.com or click here.

College Bridge

This program provides academically advanced high school students from the Chicago Public Schools system a way to go beyond their high school curriculum and study at the undergraduate level at UChicago College. During Academic Year Bridge, students will have the opportunity to participate in regular undergraduate courses alongside UChicago College students from September through June. The program — which is made possible by a collaboration between the University of Chicago's Summer Session and Office of Civic Engagement —includes a greatly reduced tuition and additional scholarships are available for eligible applicants. Apply by July 11 here.

King Community Service Center

The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services manages the King Center at 4314 S. Cottage Grove Ave. At the King Center, residents can access a host of important City services, including free mental health services, apply for rental assistance, receive public benefit support services, and much more. A complete list of workshops and services offered in July can be found here.

South Side Pitch

This competition gives South Side business owners the opportunity to pitch their business for a chance to win cash prizes totaling over $34,000! The event is hosted by the Institute for Justice Clinic on Entrepreneurship at the University of Chicago Law School. Apply by August 5 here.

24th/Michigan SBIF Opens Monday, July 1st

The Department of Planning and Development (DPD) and SomerCor will roll out the Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) grant program for applications in the following TIF districts in July.

• 24th/Michigan

Applications open: 9 a.m. Monday, July 1st

Applications close: 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 30th

The SBIF program uses revenue from TIF districts to help owners of commercial and industrial properties to repair or remodel their facilities for their own business or on behalf of tenants. Tenant businesses are also eligible to apply on their own. Please note that residential projects are not eligible for the SBIF program, and residential developers should not apply.

Program participants can receive grants for 30 to 90 percent of project costs, with a maximum grant of $150,000 for commercial properties and $250,000 for industrial properties. The grants are administered by SomerCor on the City's behalf and do not have to be repaid.

Start an Active Career in 3 Months at GWTP

The Greater West Town Community Development Project offers a 15-week, hands on wood product manufacturing course, as well as a 12-week shipping, receiving and logistics course for no cost to qualified applicants. Trainees will also receive job placement assistance. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, low-income, and an Illinois resident. To apply call 312-563-9570 or visit gwtp.org.

Basic Gunshot Wound and First Response Workshop

The 2nd District Council, in collaboration with Ujimaa Medics, will host a free basic gunshot wound first response workshop. The workshop educates the community on emergency response techniques, equipping residents with essential skills to address critical situations and enhance public safety and resilience. Registration is required.

Where: Good Shepherd Church (5700 S. Prairie Ave.)

When: Saturday, July 6th from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

NHS Financial Literacy Webinar

Whether you are planning to purchase a home or simply need to improve your finances, this webinar will prepare you for financial security. Learn How To: develop a spending plan, reduce your debt, and increase your credit score.

When: Tuesday, July 9th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (link to register)

CCPSA 1st District Council Monthly Meeting

The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) and its District Councils will bring police officers and Chicago residents together to plan, prioritize, and build mutual trust; strengthen the police accountability system; give Chicagoans a meaningful new role in oversight; and explore and advance alternative effective approaches to public safety. More information about the CCPSA, including District Council meeting dates can be found here.

Where: DePaul University (1 E. Jackson Blvd.)

When: Tuesday, July 9th at 6:00 pm

NHS Home Buyer Education Webinar

Learn about the home buying process such as the basics of budgeting, improving credit, understanding the closing process and down payment assistance programs. This is an eight-hour course delivered in two 4-hour sessions. This is a virtual meeting.

When: Wednesday, July 10th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (link to register); Saturday, July 13th from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (link to register)

Veterans Tennis Clinics

Join instructors from AD in Tennis and the USTA Midwest. They will cover a variety of topics including basic tennis rules, proper positioning, various shots and hand positions, and much more. Racquets, balls and instruction will be provided. This is an outdoor program so please dress accordingly for the weather. To register please contact aimee.watters@chicagoparkdistrict.com or call 312-881-0499.

Where: McKinley Park Tennis Courts (2210 W. Pershing Rd., Western Ave. side)

When: July 11th, 28th, and 25th from 10:00 am to 11:30 am

Veterans Learn to Row - Intensive Clinic

Join Recovery on Water (ROW) for a low-impact, full body workout! Half of the clinic will be spent learning rowing form and power application on the Concept2 RowErg. The other half will be spent on the water in a barge boat where you will develop your bladework, sequencing, and test your ability to row together as a crew. To register contact ricardo.lara@chicagoparkdistrict.com or aimee.watters@chicagoparkdistrict.com.

Where: Eleanor Boathouse at Park 571 (2828 S. Eleanor St.)

When: Thursday, July 11th from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Hyde Park Summer Music Series

Enjoy the sounds of Funkadesi at this free outdoor concert! The University of Chicago is proud to sponsor this free music series — which continues on the first Thursday in August and September — in partnership with The Silver Room. Get more information here.

Where: Harper Court (5235 S Harper Ct.)

When: Thursday, July 11th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

12th Annual Bronzeville Summer Nights

Save your Friday nights for Bronzeville's premier yearly summer event! Stroll, bike or hop on the Bronzeville Summer Nights trolley to explore local businesses while celebrating community and culture. Enjoy live entertainment, samples, and exclusive in-store discounts as you shop. For more information and participating locations, please click here.

When: Friday, July 12th; Friday, August 9th; and Friday, September 13th from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Say It Your Way Youth Forum

The Chicago Police Department Office of Community Policing Area 1 is hosting a "Say It Your Way" Youth Forum for residents ages 14-24 years old. The Forum will offer a resource fair, free food, breakout discussions and recreational activities. For more information call 312-745-5900.

Where: Kennedy-King College (740 W. 63rd St.)

When: Thursday, July 18th from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

Family Night

Families, join the King Branch Library for some fun by playing board games and video games on the Nintendo Switch. For ages 5 to 13 and their families.

Where: King Branch Library (3436 S. King Dr.)

When: Thursday, July 18th rom 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm

Vends + Vibes

Celebrate South Side art & soul at Vends + Vibes! Find unique art, apparel, jewelry, home décor, and more from L1 Fellows joined by a selection of talented South Side vendors. Support local artists and entrepreneurs while enjoying a day of art, music, and fun. Announcement of our 2024 Vendors coming soon!

Where: Arts Lawn (335 E. Garfield Blvd.) and L1 Patio (319 E. Garfield Blvd.)

When: Saturday, July 20th from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Tour the Arts Block

You're invited to take a walking tour of all four venues managed by Arts + Public Life: Arts Incubator, Green Line Performing Arts Center, L1 Retail Store, and the Arts Lawn.

We will discuss the rich cultural history and current context of the Arts Block as it relates to the Washington Park neighborhood and offer details about the purpose and function of the venues along the historic block of East Garfield Boulevard. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn more about the APL programs and community engagement initiatives.

Where: The Arts Incubator (301 E. Garfield Blvd.)

When: Thursday, July 25th from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church Vendor Fair

The Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church Outreach Ministry is hosting a vendor fair! Available products will include cosmetics, hair care, health services, food, Tupperware, paintings, clothing, jewelry and more. To participate as a vendor, please contact Maxine Toliver at 773-995-1119.

Where: Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church (4501 S. Vincennes Ave.)

When: Saturday, August 3rd from noon to 4:00 pm

Attending and participating in the Chicago Police's Community Policing Program (CAPS) is one of the best ways to address crime and quality of life issues in your neighborhood. By attending CAPS meetings, you can share important information with the police that will assist them in making arrests and preventing crime as well as receive valuable information about resources that promote homeowner and community safety. Visit www.chicagopolice.org to find out what district you live in and click on each district title to learn more about what is happening in your neighborhood.

1st District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 131

Date: July 24th at 5:30 pm

Location: For location information, please email Caps.001District@chicagopolice.org or call 312-745-4381

2nd District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 213/215

Date: July 23rd at 6:00 pm

Location: Our Lady of Africa - St. Elizabeth (44 E. 41st St.)

Beat: 221/223

Date: July 16th at 6:00 pm

Location: King Center (4314 S. Cottage Grove Ave.)

Beat: 224

Date: July 25th at 6:00 pm

Location: Taylor Park (39 W. 47th St.)

Beat: 231

Date: July 18th at 6:00 pm

Location: Washington Park Field House (5531 S. King Dr.)