In a significant move to revitalize local communities, Mayor Brandon Johnson announced today a total of $20 million in funding allocated to 28 neighborhood development projects across Chicago.
The funding, facilitated through the Department of Planning and Development’s Community Development Grant (CDG) and Neighborhood Opportunity Fund (NOF) programs, is aimed at invigorating commercial corridors and community spaces.
Selected from over 250 applicants, these projects boast a combined value of $58.5 million, focused on supporting neighborhood growth by covering eligible construction, renovation, and soft costs.
“These projects reflect the vision of Chicagoans who are committed to building stronger, more inclusive communities,” commented Mayor Johnson.
He emphasized the city’s strategic investments empowering local entrepreneurs and organizations to actively shape the future of their neighborhoods.
Among the ten finalists in the CDG program, awards range from $500,000 to $4.3 million. The most substantial grant of $4.3 million will aid the development of 5050 Prairie, a $15.8 million mixed-use site in Grand Boulevard featuring both residential and restaurant spaces.
Further notable recipients include:
– **Chicago South Side Birth Center**: Awarded $3.3 million for renovation and expansion of a reproductive health clinic located at 8301 S. South Shore Dr.
– **The Pavilion at Chinatown**: This new commercial project at 2312 S. Wentworth Ave. will receive $1 million, contributing to the overall $3.8 million development.
– **Music Box Theatre**: Set to expand into two storefronts, this project will create a new 115-seat theater with a $1.2 million grant.
– **Workshop Arts Collaborative**: Renovation funds totaling $1.2 million will convert a century-old Albany Park building into a hub for artists and musicians.
Additionally, three projects have secured pre-development grants of up to $150,000. These include a proposed $16.4 million community hub in Little Village and the rehabilitation of a mental health center in Austin.
Through the NOF program, 15 small businesses and cultural spaces on the city’s West, Southwest, and South sides will each receive grants of up to $250,000. These funds, derived from fees paid by downtown developments, are designed to ensure more equitable investment throughout the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
Some highlights from this funding include:
– **Preserve – Breakfast Bar & Luncheonette**: Awarded $250,000 for a new restaurant on E. 51st St. in Grand Boulevard.
– **Red Clay Dance Company**: Secured $203,116 for the buildout of a dance studio in Woodlawn.
– **The Grand Ballroom**: Will undergo renovations costing $153,712 aimed at enhancing community programming and establishing a commercial kitchen on Cottage Grove Ave.
– **Soul Veg City**: This beloved vegan restaurant on E. 75th St. will receive $133,550 for outdoor and roof improvements.
– **FeOM Expressions**: A grant of $250,000 will help create a mixed-use arts and mental health center in South Chicago.
Each project proposal was assessed based on financial need, the location in underserved areas, community impact, the team’s experience and diversity, as well as overall readiness to proceed.
Projects requiring more than $250,000 will necessitate final approval by the Chicago City Council.
According to DPD Commissioner Ciere Boatright, “These investments are a testament to what’s possible when government partners with residents and small businesses to create thriving, resilient communities.”
This latest award round signifies the city’s ongoing effort to rebalance economic development across neighborhoods, supporting entrepreneurs while addressing long-standing disparities.
For more details on the CDG and NOF programs, or to apply for future funding, visit chicago.gov/dpd.
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