3rd Ward Back to School Fair - August 2nd

Join Alderman Dowell and numerous community partners, service providers, and local nonprofits at her annual Back to School Fair on Saturday, August 2nd from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at the 3rd Ward Public Service Office (5046 S. State St.). Free school supplies, food, music, and games will be provided for everyone to enjoy! Help our students get ready for their best school year yet.

3rd Ward Virtual Town Hall Meeting on "The 78"

Thank you to the hundreds of residents who attended Alderman Dowell’s June 16th Town Hall meeting featuring Curt Bailey, President of Related Midwest, who presented a proposed development plan for “The 78”, which includes a new, fully privately-financed soccer stadium for the Chicago Fire. Please use this link to view a video of the meeting. A copy of the presentation and an FAQ document are also available to view. Questions and comments regarding the development can be directed to Alderman Dowell’s office at Ward03@cityofchicago.org.

As Alderman Dowell mentioned during the meeting, the June 16th Town Hall was the proposed development’s initial introduction to the community. There will be extensive additional outreach to residents on this project, and nothing related to this project has been approved by the City (as of the date of this newsletter). Please continue to stay in contact with Alderman Dowell’s office for updates on next opportunity to participate in the potential development process.

Alderman Dowell Hosts June 25th Virtual Town Hall Meeting

Thank you to all the presenters and guests who attended this informative meeting to discuss exciting new housing and commercial developments in the Bronzeville and Washington Park communities. The video from the June 25, 2025 Town Hall Meeting is now up and ready for viewing. Topics discussed include:

• The adaptive reuse of Corpus Christi Church and Rectory (4920 S. King Drive)
• A housing development for 42nd Place between King Drive and Vincennes Ave.
• Update on the ChiBlockBuilder Program
• Hotel and residential developments at 5301 S. State St.

Questions or comments about any of the proposed projects can be sent to Alderman Dowell's Office at Ward03@cityofchicago.org.

Dog Vaccine Clinic Hosted by Alderman Dowell/CACC

On Thursday, June 12th Alderman Dowell and Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) hosted a Dog Vaccine and Microchip Clinic for 3rd Ward residents' family pets. Thank you to the CACC staff and veterinarians who administered vaccine and microchip services, and to 3rd Ward staff Allyson Allison, Lucy Macedo, George Willborn, and Yvonne Green who helped coordinate the event. If you missed this event, a list of other clinic dates and locations can be found here.

3rd Ward Participates in Career and Resource Fair

Thank you to State Senator Mattie Hunter (3rd), Illinois State Representative Kim Du Buclet (5th), and the dozens of service providers in attendance for bringing important career resources to the community! Yvonne Green and Marai from the 3rd Ward Public Service Office staffed a table at the event, alongside representatives from IDOT, IDHS, Pace, DCFS, KKC, and many others. At the event, attendees were able to speak directly with employers and participate in a career resource workshop.

Black Men United, Alderman Dowell Support the Community

On Saturday, June 7th in Fuller Park, Black Men United, Alderman Dowell, World Vision, and Acclivus came together to host a free community giveaway, featuring back to school backpacks, clothing, appliances, furniture, toys, food, and much more! Thank you to all the staff and volunteers who came out to serve the community.

Alderman Dowell Breaks Ground at 4002 S. Princeton Ave. Industrial Development

Alderman Dowell joined The Missner Group for a groundbreaking at their planned industrial development located at 4002 S. Princeton Ave. in Chicago's historic Stockyards. The project, funded through a joint venture with investment partner Greystar-Thackeray, is expected to be completed in Q2 2026. Upon completion, the LEED-certified building will feature 20 exterior loading docks, two drive-in doors, 36 trailer positions, and parking for 208 cars. Located less than half a mile from the full Dan Ryan interchange, the site provides easy access to Pershing Road and Interstates 90, 94, and 55. This is a much needed investment in Fuller Park.

Popular Batter and Berries Comes to 3rd Ward

With great anticipation, please welcome Craig Richardson, owner of Batter and Berries to 2318 S. State Street in the 3rd Ward’s South Loop community. Craig is bringing his popular breakfast and brunch foods to the Southside. Try a variety of French toast and waffles, omelets, and especially the salmon croquettes which are mouthwatering! We welcome the investment in the community.

CVS Health Workforce Center Ribbon Cutting

Alderman Dowell helped welcome a new CVS Health Workforce Innovation and Talent Center opening at Chicago Baptist Institute (5120 S. King Drive). We applaud Pastor Dr. Walter Turner, III for his vision and leadership in making this project a reality.

The Workforce Innovation and Talent Center will feature a simulated CVS store to offer training in a wide variety of areas including: pharmacy technician, customer service associate, call center associate, and retail associate. Individuals who complete the training courses will have an opportunity to apply for a position with CVS Health.

3rd Ward Welcomes Southern Chicago to South Loop

Alderman Dowell was proud to welcome Southern Chicago (2000 S. Wabash Ave.) to the 3rd Ward at their ribbon cutting event. Southern Chicago specializes in southern and creole cuisines, so if you like classic, down-south flavors, drop in for a bite! Congratulations to owners Troy and Chef Xavier on their new venture and thank you for your investment in the 3rd Ward.

2nd Annual Juneteenth Baseball Tournament at Armstrong Park

Kudos to the Armstrong Park Advisory Council for organizing the 2nd Annual Juneteenth Baseball Tournament. Youth teams from across the city came together to compete and have fun! Special thanks to Bronzeville residents Decoteau Irby and Shemeka Irby, and to Takyla Dean who sang the National Black Anthem. General Superintendent and CEO of the Chicago Park District Carlos Ramirez-Rosa, and CEO and Founder of the Black Fire Brigade Lt. Quention Curtis also joined in the festivities. Congratulations to Maceo Johnson of the Park District who received the Community Impact Award. It was a beautiful day for games!

Residential Street Light Improvements - Prairie Ave. from 49th St. to 51st St.

Alderman Dowell would like to inform residents of upcoming work on Prairie Ave. from 49th St. to 51st St. in the 3rd Ward. The work is part of the Chicago Residential Lighting Improvements program.

Construction was tentatively scheduled to begin the week June 30, 2025, pending clearance from and coordination with existing utilities, current work schedule fluctuations, and weather permitting.  City Lights is the contractor for this project and Stanley Consultants is providing resident engineering services for the Chicago Department of Transportation.

The work will include the installation of foundations, boring of underground conduits, cable pulling, the installation of new residential lighting poles with piggyback lights, LED Smart Lighting luminaires, and the restoration of concrete sidewalks and parkways disturbed by the construction. The existing light poles will be removed once the new lighting system is functioning properly.

During construction, temporary “No Parking” signs will be periodically installed as required for each activity listed above so that work may be performed safely. These temporary signs will restrict parking during working hours, and residents can park normally after the posted hours and overnight, and usually all day on weekends.

The existing lights will remain working until the new lighting system is functional. If no lighting is observed at night at any time, please notify 311.

Legends South A-3 Begins Construction

Construction on Legends South A-3 has started. Located on an L-shaped site at S. State Street and W. 45th Street, this phase of the project will include a four-story, 40-unit corridor building with 3,750 SF of commercial space and two three-story walk ups. In total, the entire Legends South project, led by The Michaels Organization and Brinshore Development, will include 2,400 mixed income rental and affordable homeownership units. 

South Side Sanctuary Receives LISC Grant

South Side Sanctuary (4702 S. King Drive) was honored with the 2025 LISC Chicago Neighborhood Development Award, receiving the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Creative Places Award. The South Side Sanctuary is a gathering space for wellness, recreation, business development, and creative expression that has transformed a formerly vacant lot into a multifunctional space that brings people, and communities, together.

Congratulations to Cecilia Cuff and Jasmine Michaels, cofounders, leaders and visionaries for the South Side Sanctuary, and to their team of Ann Lui, Linda F. Chavez Baca, Nation Builders, and Nick Adam and Span. And a big thank you to Chicago Department of Planning and Development staff Mary O’Connor and Frank Kryzak for their work supporting this project.

One City at VanderCook College of Music Wins Mockingbird Grant

One City at VanderCook College of Music's Earl Hines Jazz Band for Fifth Graders from Underserved Communities' One City Jazz has won a $10,000 grant from the Mockingbird Foundation to support music education. Out of 803 inquiries, the One City group was one of 18 to receive funding. Congratulations to the VanderCook College students and faculty on this well-deserved award.

The Mockingbird Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that has been operated entirely by volunteer Phish fans, with no office, salaries, or paid staff, since its inception in 1996. A leading grant maker in music education for children, the Foundation has now made 752 grants, in all 50 states, totaling $2,760,402.72. 

RESCHEDULED: Street Closure Helicopter Lift for 233 E. 13th St.

Midwest Helicopter Airways has once again rescheduled the two lifts to place rooftop HVAC units on property located at 233 E. 13th St. The new date is Sunday, July 13th starting at 8:00 am. To facilitate the lifts, Columbus Drive between Roosevelt Rd. and McFetridge, Columbus Dr. northbound from DuSable Lake Shore Drive at McFetridge, and the McCormick Place Busway between 14th St. and Roosevelt Rd. will be closed for at least 2 hours around the time of the lift. Adjacent buildings to 233 E. 13th St. have been notified of the pending work. Questions, please contact the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273 or email Ward03@cityofchicago.org.

The 2025 Shirley J. Newsome Beautification Grant 3rd Ward Winner

The SECC is honored to announce The Shirley J. Newsome Beautification Grant Awards for 2025. The program aims to provide micro-grants to neighborhood organizations and groups to support beautification and revitalization projects that enhance the physical attractiveness and quality of life within Hyde Park, Kenwood, Oakland, Washington Park and Woodlawn communities.

In the 3rd Ward, the Urban Juncture Foundation in Washington Park was selected for their "The Bronzeville Community Garden" project. The garden at 343-347 E. 51st St. will undergo a revitalization enhancing the sidewalk-facing edge of the garden to improve its visibility, safety, and long-term sustainability. This includes a plan to repaint and repair the existing fence with support from local artists and community volunteers, and install natural stone edging along the front of the garden to improve walkability.

Business Violation - Shenxinling Nail and Spa (1460 S. Michigan Ave.)

The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection issued citations to Shenxinling Nail and Spa (1460 S. Michigan Ave.) for failure to maintain books and records - massage establishment, for operating or agreeing to touch genital area of patron, for failure to adhere to the closing requirement - massage establishment, and for operating violations and prostitution. On May 25, 2025 the licensee agreed to a $4,000 fine, and a seven (7) day closure that started on June 28th and ends on July 5th. Questions regarding this order can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

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. San Diego

Saturday, July 12th at 7:30 pm

Blackpink World Tour

Friday, July 18th at 8:00 pm

Chicago Fire vs. New York Red Bulls

Saturday, July 26th at 7:30 pm

Premier League Summer Series

Wednesday, July 30th at 5:30 pm and 8:30 pm

Apply for a CSBG Scholarship

Competitive scholarships of $1,000 to $5,000 are available through the City of Chicago's Community Services Block Grant. College, graduate, vocational, and trade school students are eligible. Applicants must be Chicago residents who meet the CSBG income eligibility guidelines. High school graduates and GED recipients are welcome. Students must be enrolled in 12 credit hours or full-time at an accredited institution for Fall 2025. Funds can be used to pay college tuition, vocational training, or other approved education purposes. Apply by July 31st at chicago.gov/fss/scholarship.

W.O.W. Capital Grant Program

Up to $500,000 in capital grants are available to support commercial shared ownership models, specifically Community Investment Vehicles (CIVs) and Worker Co-Ops. Selected CIVs and worker co-ops will be awarded W.O.W. capital grants for up to 75% of the total project costs for their real estate project, with a maximum award size of $500,000. Up to $3.5 million of W.O.W. capital grants may be awarded. W.O.W. capital grants are one-time awards that must be expended by December 31, 2026. Applications open on June 16, 2025 at 8:00 am. For more information or to apply click here.

NASCAR Speed and Sound Fest

NASCAR is hosting the first-ever “Speed and Sound Fest,” a unique community celebration that brings together Chicago food, music, and culture in the leadup to the 2025 NASCAR Chicago Street Race Weekend. The event, which is free with registration, will also feature a one-of-a-kind conversation between Chicago Historian and social media influencer Shermann “Dilla” Thomas and NASCAR drivers including Rajah Caruth and rising stars Cassidy Keitt and Lavar Scott of Rev Racing.

The event will feature a live DJ set, food trucks, car displays, and special prizes and giveaways ahead of the upcoming NASCAR Chicago Street Race, which will return to Grant Park July 5-6. In addition, NASCAR will also bring several family-focused elements and games, including racing simulators, remote controlled cars, a coloring station, photo opportunities with the Chicago Street Race trophy, and activity books. The event will also feature community vendors and partners, including a space highlighting a NASCAR Chicago-themed book by acclaimed “Sightseeing with Sandy” authors Shambrekiá Wise and Sandiya Badmus.

Where: DuSable Black History Museum (740 E 56th Pl.)

When: Thursday, July 3rd from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Lego Club

Make your own creation or complete one of our design challenges! Then put your finished build on display in the Children's Department. LEGO bricks are provided. For kids 6 to 13. 

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

When: Friday, July 11th from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Final Lap to Forever Homes

Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) is once again teaming up with the NASCAR Chicago Street Race to put the pedal to the metal on pet adoptions this July. As part of this collaboration, adoption fees will be waived for all pets the entire month, and CACC is hosting a grand adoption event (details below). For more information on adoption requirements, visit: www.chicago.gov/CACC.

Where: 2741 S. Western Ave.

When: Saturday, July 12th from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm

NHS Home Buyer Education Class

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. Registration is required.

Where: 3353 W. 13th St.

When: Saturdays July 12th and 19th at 10:00 am

Experience the Power of Gospel in the Heart of Chicago

The City of Chicago is hosting a day filled with soul-stirring music, community celebration, and cultural pride at the 2025 Chicago Gospel Music Festival — and it's completely FREE! 

Headlining this year's festival is Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Chandler Moore, bringing his signature voice and dynamic presence to the stage. Festivities kick off at noon at Cloud Gate with the Chicago Choirs & More Showcase, featuring local choirs and community performers. Come celebrate the music that was born in Chicago and continues to inspire across generations. 

Where: Millennium Park - Jay Pritzker Pavilion

When: Saturday, July 12th at noon

Start Your Own Garden

King Branch is hosting a fun gardening activity. Participants will plant vegetable or flower garden starter kits at the library and then take these kits home along with instructions on how to keep their plants growing strong. 

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

When: Tuesday, July 15th from 6:00 pm to 7:00 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: Thursday, July 17th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (link to register)

Community Health Fair

Join Apostolic Faith Church for a Community Health Fair and an opportunity to continue your health journey on Saturday at Walk a Mile with Child at the Hilton Chicago for their community walk and STEM fair. The health fair will feature: free health screenings, wellness resource and education, family-friendly activities, and giveaways for the first 50 attendees.

Where: Apostolic Faith Church (3823 S. Indiana Ave.)

When: Friday, July 18th from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Timothy Community Corporation Bloc Party

The Timothy Community Corporation is sponsoring a two day neighborhood celebration, featuring a bloc party and concert. Kid zone, face painting, games, music, giveaways, raffles, food and more. More information is available at bit.ly/TCCBLOCParty.

Where: 4351 S. Drexel Blvd.

When: Saturday, July 19th from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm (Bloc Party) and Sunday, July 20th from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm (Concert)

7th Annual CRR19 Historic Bike Tour

Join the Chicago Race Riots of 1919 Commemoration Project (CRR19), Organic Oneness and Illinois Tech for the 7th Annual Bike Tour to commemorate the Chicago Race Riot of 1919. This is a journey of truth to bring justice and healing. To register click here.

Where: 35th St. and State St.

When: Saturday, July 26th starting at 9:15 am

Ignite Your Future Summit

Ignite Your Future is a youth-led summit built to inspire, connect and empower, presented by the Mayor's Youth Commission. Register here.

Where: UIC Student Center East (750 S. Halsted St.)

When: Saturday, July 26th from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm

Floating Monuments: for Mecca

Floating Museum is excited to present for Mecca, the latest installment of the Floating Monuments series, which revives and re-activates the social history of Chicago throughout the city’s neighborhoods, by erecting inflatable monuments to specific sites of forgotten historical and cultural value to the city. Floating Monuments: for Mecca will be on view by Illinois Tech College of Architecture’s Crown Hall on August 8 - 9, 2025 and will travel across a series of Chicago Park District sites through Summer 2026. Learn more at floatingmuseum.org.

Where: Illinois Tech Crown Hall (3360 S. State St.)

When: Saturday, August 9th from noon to 6:00 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 23rd at 5:30 pm

Location: Sip and Savor (31 E. Roosevelt Rd.)

Beat: 133

Date: July 23rd at 3:00 pm - Virtual

Location: For zoom links and other updates email CAPS.001district@ChicagoPolice.org.

2nd District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 213/215

Date: July 22nd at 6:00 pm

Location: St. Elizabeth Church (4058 S. Michigan Ave.)

Beat: 221/223

Date: July 15th at 6:00 pm

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

Beat: 224

Date: July 24th at 6:00 pm

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

Beat: 231

Date: July 17th at 6:00 pm

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