December 4, 2020
Alderman Reilly Reports
New Development Proposals in the 42nd Ward
525 South Wabash Avenue  

Eterra Plus, LLC is proposing a new mixed-use, grocery-anchored retail, residential and hotel project located at 525 S. Wabash Avenue. The proposed development will have frontages on Wabash Avenue, Ida B. Wells Drive and Harrison Street and replaces an existing parking structure and transient parking lot with two contemporary buildings designed by BKV Group. The north building is 23 stories with 314 hotel keys, and 261 residential units, and the south building is a 36-story residential building with 516 units. Both buildings are connected by a retail, residential & parking podium with 151 parking stalls, and a large open-area amenity space on top.  
At Alderman Reilly’s direction, the podium was completely redesigned with a significant focus on active uses along all frontages. The activation and beautification of the streetscape on Wabash Avenue will enhance the pedestrian experience and inclusion of public amenities such as outdoor space. Furthermore, a grocery-anchored, retail base will benefit the neighborhood. Additionally, as part of the hotel experience, a restaurant is currently planned on the second floor with an outdoor terrace facing Ida B. Wells. 
Alderman Reilly encouraged the developers to revise the site plan for the property, ensuring adequate temporary vehicle standing areas in front of the hotel lobby and in the proposed newly improved and widened alley on the east side of the project. The Alderman also made suggestions to improve a mid-block service drive, which has been introduced to accommodate the loading requirements (which will all be internal to the project) utilizing the widened alley for improved traffic flow and circulation. These modification and improvements also resulted in a reduction of hotel density and parking spaces for the project, which is located in a transit-served location. Further details about the proposal can be found in the traffic study.  

The site is currently zoned DX-12. The applicant is not seeking a zoning change, and is seeking a planned development with a Neighborhood Opportunity Fund bonus and, if approved, would contribute $3,649,641.60 to the Fund. The project would also generate approximately 400 construction jobs and 200 permanent jobs. To learn more about this proposal, please click here.  

640 West Washington Boulevard

Crescent Heights proposes to redevelop the site at 640 West Washington with a new mixed-use building, featuring a slender tower situated on the west side of the site and a tiered building base featuring active amenity spaces and landscaped green roof. The site at 640 West Washington is currently occupied by a surface parking lot, primarily used by daily commuters. 
Crescent Heights would replace the parking lot with a new building designed by Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture, featuring a slender 47-story tower on the west side of the site, along the east side of the Kennedy Expressway. The building would include up to 413 dwelling units, 137 enclosed parking spaces, and approximately 8,000 square feet of retail space at the ground floor. The building would feature tiered indoor and outdoor amenity spaces at the base of the tower, including a landscaped green roof on the third floor roof. The massing and height of the building base correspond to existing building base heights of nearby buildings. 
The project has been designed to eliminate the existing curb cut on Desplaines, to preserve the pedestrian nature of Desplaines and the existing bike lane. Situating the slender tower to the far western side of the site minimizes the impact on views from existing buildings. The proposal includes an internal auto-court to pull pick-up/drop-off activity off of the adjacent streets. The parking garage entrance, serving only residents, would also be accessed from the auto-court. At Alderman Reilly’s direction, the proposal also includes a new public sidewalk along Court Place and would create a new pedestrian path along the west side of the building from Washington Blvd to Court Place. 

The site is currently located in the DX-7 district. To achieve the project, Crescent Heights proposes to use bonus FAR to achieve a total FAR of 11.5. Approval of bonus FAR will require review and approval of the project as a Planned Development. 

Each of these proposals will be required to present their plans for approval to the Chicago Plan Commission, Committee on Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards and City Council.  

As part of Alderman Reilly's transparent community process for new developments, your comments and observations are welcome for this project. Please forward any feedback to: development@ward42chicago.com.  
Important Announcements and Updates
Chicago Department of Public Health COVID-19 Update
As of December 3, the City of Chicago is averaging approximately 1,339 new cases per day, down 31% from the week prior. The average test positivity is at approximately 12% and a brief breakdown of COVID cases in Chicago can be seen below.  
The City of Chicago has been preparing since the pandemic started to make one or more COVID-19 vaccines available as soon as possible. There will be a phased roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccine with a very limited supply at the beginning, so healthcare workers will be prioritized, particularly those who treat COVID patients. Vaccine supply is expected to continually increase in the weeks and months that follow and it will then be made available to others. Some answers to frequently asked questions can be found below:  

Q: When will I be able to get the vaccine?  
A: It is anticipated all adults should be able to get vaccinated later in 2021. 

Q: Can I register to get the vaccine now?  
A: There is currently no public registration for COVID vaccine at this time. CDPH will update this website with registration and clinic information as additional groups are recommended for vaccine and as clinics are scheduled. 

Q: Why are some people prioritized?  
A: The initial supply of vaccine will be limited, and based on national guidance, healthcare workers will be the first population recommended to receive the vaccine, and even then, those who treat COVID-19 patients and perform certain procedures will likely receive the vaccine first. This prioritization ensures those with the highest risk of contracting COVID are protected. Additionally, by vaccinating those who provide direct patient care will protect our healthcare workforce capacity. Priority will also be given to older adults living in long-term care facilities to prevent outbreaks. 

Q: Can I get just one of the vaccine doses?  
A: No. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines both require two doses. One dose will not give you the same level immunity. 

Q: Has a vaccine been approved by the FDA?  
A: Currently, no vaccine is yet authorized and recommended to prevent COVID-19. We will provide information on who is and is not recommended to receive each vaccine and what to expect after vaccination, as well as ingredients, safety, and effectiveness. Both Pfizer and Moderna have requested emergency use authorization (EUA) for COVID-19 vaccines from the FDA. The FDA will meet on December 10, 2020 to determine if Pfizer will receive EUA. They will meet on December 17, 2020 to decide on Moderna. 

The Chicago Department of Public Health is working with partners at all levels, including hospitals, health care providers, and community leaders, on flexible COVID-19 vaccination programs that can accommodate different vaccines and scenarios. More information about the vaccination plan in Chicago can be found here.  
Alderman Reilly Encourages Residents to Shop (and Eat) Local this Holiday Season!
As the holiday season gets underway, Alderman Reilly would like to encourage everyone to eat and shop local! Local businesses have been hit hard by reduced foot traffic downtown due to the pandemic. There are countless independent, local shops and restaurants in the 42nd Ward that need your support.  

To encourage all Chicagoans with the capacity to support our beloved hospitality industry, the City is launching the Take Out Chicago contest. Through this program, launched with the support of Choose Chicago, residents that order takeout from ten unique bars and restaurants through December 15 will be entered into a contest to win a VIP experience at one of Chicago’s premier cultural institutions. Chicagoans can learn more and submit their entry here.  

Recipients will be selected via lottery to win VIP tours for themselves and three family members at a select Chicago destination, including the Art Institute, DuSable Museum, Lincoln Park Zoo, Soldier Field and more. Residents participating in the contest should also post their orders using the hashtag #takeoutchicago. 

Alderman Reilly encourages residents to keep their spending local this holiday season, and support local Chicago businesses. 
OEMC Encourages Residents to Prepare Now for Upcoming Winter Weather Amid COVID-19 Pandemic
During Winter Weather Preparedness Week in Illinois, and as the City prepares for the winter season during the COVID-19 pandemic; the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) is advising residents and businesses to consider how the cold temperatures and changing weather to come will impact their planning. Residents are advised to take precautions now to get ready, especially given the challenges of the pandemic.

Severe cold temperatures, strong winds and snow can cause additional hazards, whether home or traveling, so it’s important to stay informed. OEMC issues several alerts and notifications to keep people up to date on weather conditions and emergencies.

  • Notify Chicago: Sign up for emergency alerts at www.NotifyChicago.org
  • CHILAKE: For lakefront notices including flooding, text “CHILAKE” to 7-8-0-1-5
  • COVID: Get COVID-19 updates by texting “COVID19” to 6-7-2-8-3
  • CHIBIZ: Business updates, text “CHIBIZ” to 6-7-2-8-3

Department of Streets and Sanitation

The Department of Streets and Sanitation (DSS) manages more than 9,400 lane miles of roadway and maintains a fleet of over 300 snow vehicles that are fully prepared to respond if needed. In addition, DSS has over 400,000 tons of salt stationed at salt piles throughout the city.

The City’s winter overnight parking ban is now in effect. This ban restricts parking on 107 miles of critical roadways during the hours of 3 a.m. to 7 a.m. to ensure that our crews can quickly salt and plow the streets during a winter storm. Residents are encouraged to check the posted street signs for parking restrictions.
Chicago Department of Public Health

As the City braces for cold temperatures and winter weather, the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) would like to caution residents to take care of themselves, and to also provide assistance to neighbors, family members, pets and friends, particularly those who are elderly, have disabilities and/or live alone. Taking preventative action is the best way to stay safe from the serious health risks associated with winter weather. Residents are advised to limit their time outside, wear layers of warm clothing when going outside, and watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.

Department of Family and Support Services

The Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) activates warming areas at the City’s six community service centers when temps are at 32 degrees or below.

  • The warming areas are open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • On evenings, weekends or holidays, city-operated facilities including libraries and park facilities might also serve as warming areas, if needed.
  • Residents must wear a face covering while in the warming areas.

Those seeking a warm place to go after hours should call 3-1-1 to be connected with available services. Individuals requiring emergency overnight shelter should also call 3-1-1, visit 311.Chicago.gov or download the CHI311 app.

Chicago Fire Department

The Chicago Fire Department does not recommend using space heaters; however, if used, be sure they are UL certified and at least 3 feet from anything that can ignite. Use of a space heater in children’s rooms should be monitored closely as children sometimes move them close to or into the bed with tragic results. If extension cords are used, they should be rated at 15 amps minimum and never put cords under carpet.

With the added demand on furnaces and boilers, CFD also reminds residents are required by ordinance to have working carbon monoxide detectors to protect against carbon monoxide leaks from a heating system that could be fatal over time. Those seeking access to warming centers and/or experiencing insufficient heat are encouraged to contact 3-1-1 for immediate assistance. Also, be sure to keep smoke detectors in working order.

Department of Water Management

It's freezing season and DWM wants to remind you that a few simple steps can prevent lots of costly damage.

To prevent pipes from freezing:

  • Maintain proper heat in your home.
  • Make sure there is warm air circulating in any area where there are water pipes. This includes garages and unheated areas of your home.
  • Insulate pipes, particularly those outside or on the perimeter of the house.
  • Remove all garden hoses from hose bibs and cover the bibs with Styrofoam insulating caps. 

If pipes do freeze, do not use candles or any open flame to thaw them. Try a hair dryer or heating pad instead.

National Weather Service

The National Weather Service in Chicago suggests keeping an eye on the forecast even 3-5 days out and consider how the expected conditions will impact you and how you can prepare. As winter weather develops and situations are updated, it’s even more important to know what actions are needed when advisories and warnings are issued by the National Weather Service.

  • Winter Weather Advisory: Potentially dangerous winter weather is expected within the next 12-36 hours; Travel difficulties expected.
  • Winter Storm Warning: Dangerous winter weather is expected in the next 12-36 hours or is occurring; Travel problems are expected.
  • Blizzard Warning: Severe winter weather is expected in the next 12-36 hours or is occurring – including white out conditions. Do not travel.

Additional Cold-Weather Tips

  • Motorists should take extra precautions to winterize vehicles and have necessary supplies on-the-go. Keep in mind, disabled vehicles or distracted driving can cause accidents, impact traffic or require emergency services.
  • Residents should know the signs and care of frostbite and hypothermia.
  • Avoid unnecessary trips outside-if you must go out, limit the time you stay outside;
  • Wear several layers of loose, warm clothing;
  • Keep your head, hands and feet covered when outdoors;
  • Stay dry, because moisture can damage the insulating effectiveness of clothing;
  • Pay extra attention to your daily needs: get enough sleep, eat high energy foods, drink warm beverages to help your body stay warm, and avoid alcoholic beverages.

For additional information on emergency preparedness information, visit Chicago.gov/OEMC.
First Installment of Cook County Property Tax Bills Now Online
Earlier this week the Cook County Treasurer's office announced next year’s First Installment of Cook County property tax bills are now available online. The First Installment Tax Year 2020, which is 55 percent of the previous year's total tax, is due March 2, 2021. However, the Cook County Board has waived late charges through May 3, 2021.

You can download your tax bill or make a payment by going online and following these steps:

  • Select the blue box labeled "Pay Online for Free"
  • Enter your address or 14-digit Property Index Number (PIN)
  • There is no fee if you pay from your bank account

The Treasurer’s Office accepts partial payments. However, all First Installment Tax Year 2020 taxes must be paid by May 3, 2021, to avoid a late charge of 1.5 percent per month mandated by Illinois law. For more information, please visit cookcountytreasurer.com.
Chicago Public Library Best of the Best 2020
Chicago Public Library (CPL) recommends the Best of the Best, their selections of the very best books published in 2020. Every year, CPL librarians evaluate the year’s new books and select the very best for Chicagoans—making these the only booklists for Chicago, by Chicago.

Click here for best of 2020 booklists for adults, teens and kids. Happy reading!
Chicago Park District Winter Programming
Winter registration is right around the corner! You can now browse their program offerings and start registering next week. Whether you choose to workout, learn how to craft, or master a new sport, there is something for all ages!

If state and city guidelines at the time allow, in-person programs will run in accordance, limiting the number of guests that can be programmed for at each park. For those not interested in in-person classes, the online programs provide an opportunity to stay active, both mentally and physically, while socializing with others, from the comfort and safety of your own home. 

The session runs from January 4 - March 20, 2021. Please note, the start date for in-person winter offerings is subject to change based upon state guidelines. For more information, please click here.
CDPH COVID-19 Testing in Chicago
The City's community-based testing sites remain open to all people living in Chicago, regardless of insurance or immigration status. Please note that, in recent weeks, Chicago has set new daily records for the number of people tested for the virus that causes COVID-19. Like many providers across the city, CDPH is currently seeing an increase in patient volumes at all City of Chicago community-based testing sites, which were created to supplement testing performed in clinical settings.

CDPH strongly encourages people to register in advance. If there aren't any available time slots, CDPH encourage people to use our interactive testing map and locate another testing site nearby.

To register online, residents must have an email address. If an individual does not have email, they may call the Department of Public Health’s testing support line at (312) 746-4835 to register and schedule an appointment over the phone. 
Chicago Public Schools Updated Reopening Guidelines
Following the guidance of local public health officials, Chicago Public Schools is planning to begin opening school buildings for families who choose to return following winter break. Students enrolled in pre-k and moderate and intensive cluster programs will have the option to return on Monday, Jan. 11, 2021, and students in K-8 will be able to return on Monday, Feb.1. High school students who learn in general education settings will continue learning at home, and we will continue to evaluate options for a return to in-person learning for those students in 2021. 

To prepare for the safe return to school buildings, families of children who are eligible to return will be contacted later this month to understand their preferred learning setting following winter break. A tentative timeline for returning back to school based on public health conditions and guidance is below:

  • November 23, 2020
  • Staff: Intent-to-return form sent to K-8 staff
  • Families: Opt-in form sent to all families of students in pre-K-8 and cluster programs. Please note that families who responded to the survey in October do not need to re-submit if their preference has not changed.
  • December 7, 2020
  • Staff: Intent-to-return deadline for K-8 staff
  • Families: Opt-in form submission deadline
  • January 4, 2021
  • Staff: Pre-K and cluster program staff return
  • January 11, 2021
  • Families: Students in pre-K and cluster programs return
  • January 25, 2021
  • Staff: K-8 staff return
  • February 1, 2021
  • Families: K-8 students return

CPS families can read more about the reopening plan here and view CPS specific COVID-19 data on CPS's reopening website.
42nd Ward Mask Distribution
Alderman Reilly will be distributing masks again this Fall. Similar to earlier this year, these masks will be prioritized for 42nd Ward residents who belong to a vulnerable population (including seniors 65 and older, and those with underlying medical conditions that put them at higher risk) and essential personnel. However, all residents are welcome to request a mask.  

If you or a member of your immediate household falls into one of these categories, please complete this form and we will do our best to provide you with a mask. If you have previously requested a mask from our office, you may request additional masks.  

Please note, these masks are for 42nd Ward residents only, if you reside outside of the 42nd Ward, please contact your local Alderman directly.  
Police Alerts and Community Notices
Upcoming Events
Celebrate (Virtually) This Holiday Season!
Due to COVID-19 health and safety concerns, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events is pleased to present a virtual holiday celebration, "Millennium Park at Home: Chicago Holidays"!

“Millennium Park at Home: Chicago Holidays” program is produced by Kurtis Productions with support from the Millennium Park Foundation and DCASE. It includes a holiday greeting from Mayor Lightfoot and First Lady Amy Eshleman, special acknowledgements of Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, and music performances recorded at the Epiphany Center for the Arts featuring the Chicago Children’s Choir, Sones de México Ensemble and Percy Bady and friends – with a special tribute to the 50th anniversary of Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas.” 

Residents can also visit Millennium Park to see the City of Chicago Christmas Tree shining brightly near the intersection of Michigan Ave. and Washington St. from now through January 7. The Park is open daily, 8:00am to 9:00pm, for groups of 10 persons or fewer who practice physical distancing and wear face coverings. For information about where to enter/exit the Park and other details, visit MillenniumPark.org
Building Wealth Today for Tomorrow: A Financial Empowerment Virtual Summit
Live from the Library!
Weekdays at 10:00am
Watch story times with Chicagoans you know and love at Live from the Library! See a new reader at 10 a.m. every weekday, or browse past story times on Facebook Live. Guest readers include Mayor Lori Lightfoot, the Obamas, Oprah Winfrey and Jeff Tweedy, as well as Chicago Public Library (CPL) children's librarians.

Individuals can watch past and live videos each weekday on CPL's Facebook page.
Empty the Shelters: Holiday Hope Event
December 9-13, 2020
During the Empty the Shelters: Holiday Hope event, adoption fees are waived thanks to the BISSELL Pet Foundation. Adoptions will be free for animals with approved applications or going home between December 9-13. 

Animals available for adoption can be viewed here and note, all adoptions are appointment only. Completed applications should be emailed to visitcacc@gmail.com. Please allow five businesses days to hear back from Chicago Animal Care and Control. For more information, please click here.
Chicago Police Department 18th District Community Drives
Holiday Toy Drive
The 18th District is hosting its 30th Annual Toy Drive this Christmas season! They are accepting new, unwrapped toys until December 12, 2020.

Donations can be dropped off at the 18th District Station, located at 1160 N. Larrabee Street.

For more information or questions, please call the 18th District CAPS Office at (312) 742-5778.
School Supply Drive
The 18th District is collecting school supplies for students learning at home this year. Accepted items include:

  • Pens and Pencils
  • Erasers
  • Glue Sticks
  • Highlighters
  • Art Supplies
  • Notebooks
  • Calculators
  • Rulers and Protractors
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Binders

Donations will be accepted until December 31, 2020 and be dropped off at the 18th District Station at 1160 N. Larrabee Street. For more information or questions, please call the 18th District CAPS Office at (312) 742- 5778.
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.

There are no beat meetings for the week of December 7, 2020.

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
St. Regis Chicago Construction (formally Vista Tower) Update and Traffic Impact

North Field Boulevard
  • North Field Boulevard, between East South Water Street and East Lower Wacker Drive has been reopened to vehicular and pedestrian traffic. 

Lower Wacker Drive
  • McHugh construction is repaving Lower Wacker Drive, between North Columbus Drive and North Stetson Avenue. Work is expected to be completed by Friday, December 11.

Upper Wacker Drive (within Project Scope)
  • McHugh construction is tentatively scheduled to return Upper Level of Wacker Drive in front of St. Regis Chicago to the City of Chicago at the end of February 2021. 

No-Left-Turn Configuration
  • The current no-left-turn configuration at Upper Wacker Drive and North Columbus Drive is expected to remain in place until February 2021. 
 
For more information or to speak with the General Contractor for the project, please contact McHugh Construction Company's Senior Project Manager, Joe Kuna at jkuna@mchughconstruction.com.

Helicopter Lift: 165 East Ontario

Midwest Helicopter was hired to lift HVAC equipment onto the roof of 165 East Ontario Street on Saturday, December 5, from 9am-11pm. During the lift, the following will be closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic:

  • North Michigan Avenue, from East Erie Street to East Ohio Street
  • East Ontario Street, from North Rush Street to North St. Clair Street

There will be barricades and police officers onsite during the lift. 

Photo Shoots in the Loop and River North 

151 South Clark Street
On Sunday, December 6, there will be a photo shoot at 151 South Clark Street. Parking will be restricted on Sunday, December 6, from 5am-7pm, at the following location:

  • East side of South Clark Street, from West Monroe Street to West Adams Street

20 West Kinzie
Paige Dorian Productions will be taking interior photos at 20 West Kinzie Street on Thursday, December 10. Parking will be restricted on Thursday, December 10, from 5am – 7pm to park essential vehicles at the following locations:

  • South side of West Kinzie Street, from 25 West Kinzie Street to North State Street
  • West side of North State Street, from Kinzie Street to Hubbard Street

16 West Adams Street
Paige Dorian Productions will be taking photos for an ad at 16 West Adams on Monday, December 7 – Wednesday, December 9. Parking will be restricted on Monday, December 7, at 5am to Wednesday, December 9, at 7pm at the following location:

  • West side of South Dearborn Street, West Adams Street to West Monroe Street

Crane Lift 109 East Oak Street

On Monday, December 7, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. there will be a crane lift at 109 East Oak Street. During the lift, the following will be closed:

  • A 50’ section of the sidewalk in front of 109 East Oak Street
  • A 50’ section of the curb and traffic lanes in front of 109 East Oak Street

There will be barricades and flaggers onsite throughout the lift. 

Helicopter Lift: 208 South LaSalle Street

Midwest Helicopter was hired to lift HVAC equipment onto the roof of 208 South LaSalle Street on Saturday, December 12, from 9am-11pm. During the lift, the following will be closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic:

  • West Adams Street, from South Franklin Street to South LaSalle Street
  • South Wells Street, from West Qunicy Street to West Marble Place
  • West Quincy Street, from South LaSalle Street to South Wells Street

There will be barricades and police officers onsite during the lift. 

Film Notice for River North

A pilot for a TV show is being filmed in the Trump Tower located at 401 North Wabash Street on Tuesday, December 8. Parking will be restricted on Monday, December, 7 at 7am - Wednesday, December 9 at 4pm at the following location:

  • Both sides of Lower Wabash, from East Hubbard to East Kinzie

Parking will be restricted on Monday, December 7, at 8am to Tuesday, December 8, at 11pm at the following locations:
  • Both sides of Lower Wabash, from East Hubbard to East Illinois
  • Both sides of East Hubbard, from North Wabash to North Rush
  • Both sides of East Kinzie, from North State to North Wabash
  • East side of North State, from Kiznzie to the River

If you have any questions or concerns, please call Jon Klemke (Location Manager) or Adam Sherman (On-site Coordinator) at 773-227-8124.

Chicago Fire Filming in the Loop

Chicago Fire will be filming a car crash scene at the intersection of Clinton/Fulton/Milwaukee on Sunday, December 13, from 6:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The following streets will be closed during the filming:

  • West Fulton, from North Desplaines to North Canal 
  • North Clinton, from West Lake to 310 N. Clinton
  • North Milwaukee, from North Canal to West Fulton
  • North Jefferson, from West Lake to West Fulton

Parking will be restricted from Saturday, December 12, at 9pm to Sunday November 13, at 6pm at the following locations:

  • Both sides of North Clinton, from West Lake to 320 North Clinton
  • Both sides of West Fulton, from North Canal to North Jefferson
  • Both sides of North Jefferson, from West Lake to 217 North Jefferson
  • Both sides of North Canal, from West Lake to West Fulton
  • North side of West Lake, from North Clinton to North Jefferson

If you have any questions, concerns or special needs, please contact Luis Perez (Location Manager) at 773-525-2326 or Antonio O (On-Site Coordinator) at 773-938-3358.

IJKL Utility Tie-ins: Lower Harbor Service Drive

Lendlease Construction is continuing its completion of IJKL’s utility tie-ins for People’s Gas, ComEd, Sewer, and Water Service on Lower Harbor Service Drive. This work is forecasted to be completed on Friday, January 8, 2021. Temporary street closures on Lower Harbor Service Drive are not expected. If a temporary street closure is needed, a flagger will be present to direct traffic.
 
Work is dependent on weather and subject to delays enacted by the utility companies.

Van Buren Bridge Structural Repairs

The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) is performing structural repairs on the Van Buren Street Bridge over the Chicago River. Work will occur from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., daily. 

While work is occurring, there will be a single curb lane closure. Work is expected to be finished by Thursday, December 31 (weather dependent). 

Navy Pier CTA Bus Stop Changes

Due to the installation of Electric Bus charging units at Navy Pier, the following bus stop changes will take place on Monday, November 23, 2020 at 9:00 am
 
Navy Pier Terminal (west bay, north position)—Permanent bus stop relocation
  • Stop ID Number: 14161
  • Route Stopping: #65 – Grand
 
Navy Pier Terminal (west bay, south position)—Permanent bus stop relocation
  • Stop ID Number: 758
  • Route Stopping: #29 – State
 
Navy Pier Terminal (east bay, north position)—Permanent bus stop elimination (Combined into one bus stop, see East Bay, south position reference)
  • Stop ID Number: 14160
  • Route Stopping: n/a
 
Navy Pier Terminal (east bay, south position)—Permanent bus stop relocation
  • Stop ID Number: 14162
  • Route Stopping: #66 – Chicago, #124 – Navy Pier
 
Grand Avenue at Park Drive (westbound, farside)—Permanent new bus stop
  • Stop ID Number: TBD
  • Route Stopping: #2 – Hyde Park Express

Lakeshore East Park ComEd Work

As part of the utility work for the IJKL project, ComEd will need to access a manhole in the Lakeshore East Park. ComEd will be blocking off the surrounding area of the manhole and laying down protection boards on the grass to maintain the landscape's integrity. ComEd will complete its work on Monday, December 7. Work will take place in the evening between 6:00pm-6:00am. The protection boards and blocked off area will remain in place for the entire duration of the work. 

61 West Erie Street Construction

On Monday, November 2, LG Construction will begin construction of a five-story, 28 unit apartment building at 61 West Erie Street. Please find LG Construction’s phase one construction timeline below. 

  1. Starting November 16, LG Construction will be pouring caissons. It will take roughly 9 days to finish pouring the 12 caissons required for this project. LG Construction will be radioing concrete trucks on and off the site. 
  2. Starting Monday, November 30, foundation work will begin. This portion of the project is expected to last three weeks (weather dependent). 

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 West Erie Street

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

IJKL Construction Update

Starting Monday, November 2, Lendlease will be installing structural geofoam at the IJKL site. Geofoam is a highly compressed thermoplastic that is used to fill-in the space between the top of the concrete deck and the soil. 

The geofoam will be cut and trimmed onsite to fit a specific design plan. Cutting and trimming the geofoam might result in some debris being blown off the site. Lendlease will make every effort to contain this and clean the area surrounding its site.

The geofoam installation is expected to be finished at the beginning of December. 

CTA Bus Stop Change in the Loop

Due to electrical vault construction, starting Monday, October 13, the following bus stop will be relocated until Monday, November 23 (or until completion of work):

  • Clark at Adams (southbound, far side to nearside)- temporary bus stop relocation
  • Stop ID Number: 1869 to TBD
  • Routes Stopping: #22 – Clark, #24 – Wentworth

Façade Work: 160 North LaSalle Street

Starting at the end of October, Bowa Construction will be performing 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

From now until December 31, 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 Wabash 
  • Both sides of New Street, from Illinois to North Water
  • Both sides of Columbus Drive, from Monroe to Balbo 
  • North side of Wacker Drive 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
  • Both sides of Erie, between Kingsbury and Larrabee
  • Both sides of Larrabee, from Erie to Huron

Chicago Police Department Commander Jill Stevens (18th District) and Commander Jacob Alderden (1st District) have ordered this temporary overnight parking ban to encourage restaurant and bar patrons to return home after dining out.  

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

Jane Byrne Interchange Closures and Detours

Northbound I-90/94 Mainline Improvements Begin This Week

As of October 1, all traffic lanes were shifted left on northbound I-90/94 approaching Roosevelt Road. The far right lane will provide access to the flyover ramp connection northbound I-90/94 to westbound I-290. This ramp will remain reduced to one lane between Roosevelt Road and Taylor Street until late December 2020.

Overnight lane closures will be required to facilitate these improvements. On Thursday and Monday nights, closures will start at 10:00pm, with occasional full stops for no longer than 15 minutes at a time beginning at 1:00am. All lanes will reopen by 5:00am Friday and Tuesday mornings.

Furthermore, the northbound Roosevelt Road entrance ramp to I-290 closed on October 1. The detour for motorists is below:

  • Westbound I-290: head west on Roosevelt to Ashland, north on Ashland to access the Ashland entrance to westbound I-290.
  • Eastbound I-290: head east on Roosevelt to State, north on State to Ida B. Wells Drive.

Taylor Street Reopened

Taylor Street reopened to traffic on Thursday, September 17, between Halsted and DesPlaines Street. Taylor Street closed in June and was used as part of the eastbound I-290 to northbound I-90/94 detour route while the east-to-north ramp was being reconstructed.

New features to improve safety, increase visibility, and decrease decision point and conflict from opposing lanes have been made.

On Tuesday, October 6, the Taylor Street entrance ramp to northbound I-90/94 will open.

Adams Street Bridge

The Adams Street bridge is closed from Halsted Street to Desplaines Street. The bridge will be demolished and rebuilt, anticipated to reopen in the Fall of 2022. The Adams Street entrance and exit ramps to I-90/94 will also close with traffic entering the interstate via Madison Street and traffic exiting the interstate via Monroe Street. 

Detour routes for pedestrians and drivers are below: 

  • Vehicular Traffic will be directed south on Desplaines, west on Van Buren, and north on Halsted and then can continue west on Adams. 
  • Pedestrians should use the Monroe Street bridge as a detour route. 

The Adams Street bridge marks the final major bridge closure at the Jane Byrne Interchange for the 2020 construction season. The new bridge will have two westbound lanes and wider sidewalks on both sides of the street, enhancing connections and improving safety for all transportation users in the surrounding neighborhoods. 

Madison Street Exit Ramp Closure

The northbound Madison Street exit ramp will close on Tuesday, October 6 until summer 2021. The detour route for drivers is below:
  • Continue north on I-90/94 to the Washington exit ramp, head east on Washington and south on Desplaines to Madison

For more information about the Jane Byrne Interchange project, please visit janebyrneinterchange.org.

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.