Projects, Initiatives & Resolutions
Completed & Upcoming
CDOT Projects
If there are No Parking signs on your block and you are wondering what type of work may be happening, visit Chi Street Work to find any permits associated with the address. In the permit, you will find a contact and phone number that you can call to ask questions.
Visit Chi Street Work to find associated permits
If you can’t find the permit on Chi Street Work, try using the Permit Look Up portal
If you still have questions, contact our office at info@the26thward.org or 773-395-0143. Please include a permit number or exact address.
The 26th Ward will prioritize infrastructure projects that align with the City of Chicago's Vision Zero framework, focusing on improving pedestrian safety and eliminating traffic fatalities and severe injuries.
Using traffic studies, participatory budgeting, and in-house survey results, we will target high-risk locations, such as busy intersections and areas near schools, parks, and transit stops, to implement proven safety measures like enhanced crosswalks, pedestrian refuge islands, and traffic calming designs. This approach reflects our commitment to creating safer, more equitable streets for all residents.
The Northwest Side Preservation Ordinance
Background
In response to the growing concerns about displacement, rising property taxes, and the loss of affordable housing on the Northwest Side, Alderpeople Jessie Fuentes (Ward 26), Carlos Ramirez-Rosa (Ward 35), Daniel La Spata (Ward 1), Byron Sigcho-Lopez (Ward 25), Ruth Cruz (Ward 30), Felix Cardona (Ward 31), and Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez (Ward 33) introduced the Northwest Side Housing Preservation Ordinance to the Chicago City Council on July 17, 2024. The ordinance was passed on September 18, 2024, and is a critical tool to help preserve the affordability and diversity of our neighborhoods.
Why was the Northwest Side Housing Preservation Ordinance Created?
Our neighborhoods, including Avondale, Hermosa, Humboldt Park, Logan Square, and West Town, are home to a large number of two- to four-flat apartment buildings — this type of housing is known as “naturally occurring affordable housing” (NOAH). These buildings have historically been a vital source of affordable homes for working-class families, particularly among low- and moderate-income communities. However, on the Northwest Side, these buildings are increasingly being demolished or converted into luxury single-family homes, pushing out long-time residents and contributing to the rising rents and property taxes that are causing displacement.
This ordinance is designed to address these issues by protecting our neighborhoods from the loss of this crucial housing stock, stabilizing property taxes, and helping prevent the displacement of residents. It aims to preserve the historic character and affordability of our communities, ensuring that they remain vibrant and accessible to all.
What Does the Northwest Side Housing Preservation Ordinance Do?
The Northwest Side Housing Preservation Ordinance provides several important protections:
Protects Two-Flats, Three-Flats, and Four-Flats from Demolition: Developers who want to demolish multi-family buildings must pay a demolition surcharge of $20,000 per unit or $60,000 per building (whichever is higher). The funds collected through this surcharge are directed to the Chicago Housing Trust and the Here To Stay Land Trust, which work to build and preserve affordable housing in our communities.
Prevents Conversion to Luxury Single-Family Homes: The ordinance prohibits the conversion of two-flats, three-flats, and four-flats into luxury single-family homes on blocks where the majority of buildings are multi-family apartments. This ensures that the existing affordable housing stock remains intact.
Gives Tenants the Right of First Refusal: Tenants now have the right to match any offer made by a third-party buyer when their building is up for sale. This provision is designed to give tenants the opportunity to purchase their homes, ensuring they aren’t displaced by market-driven forces.
Legalizes New Two-Flats: The ordinance allows for the construction of new two-flat buildings by-right in residential areas that are currently zoned only for single-family homes. This change promotes the development of more middle-income housing, which is essential to meeting the housing needs of our communities.
What You Need to Know about the Northwest Side Housing Preservation Ordinance as a Landlord or Tenant
On September 18, 2024, the Chicago City Council passed the Northwest Side Housing Preservation Ordinance (NWS HPO). The NWS HPO promotes housing affordability by protecting two-flats, three-flats, and four-flats from demolition via a demolition surcharge and by disallowing the conversion of two-flats, three-flats, and four-flats to luxury single-family homes on blocks where most buildings are multi-family apartment buildings; providing tenants with the right of first refusal and first opportunity to purchase their building when it goes on sale; and legalizing the construction of new two-flats by-right in zones currently only zoned for single-family homes.
The Tenant Opportunity to Purchase (T.O.P.) component of the ordinance will go into effect on March 1, 2025. The rules governing the right of first refusal and Tenant Opportunity to Purchase depend on the number of units in the building. The Tenant Opportunity to Purchase is modeled off of timeframes typical of the local real estate market.
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● The owner must give tenants 30 days' notice of their intent to sell before listing the property for sale.
● Following the 30-day notice period, the owner must notify tenants of any third-party offers they receive that they intend to accept.
● Tenants have 15 days from receipt of notice of a third-party offer to exercise their right of first refusal by notifying the owner in writing of their intention to match the third-party offer. Written notice of intent to exercise right of first refusal must be accompanied by a pre-approval and earnest money. The ordinance caps the amount of earnest money a seller can require at 5% of the purchase price.
● An offer to purchase can be made by one tenant; the formation of a tenant association is not necessary.
● If the offer is accepted, the tenant(s) have 60 days to secure financing and complete the closing process.
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● The owner must give tenants 30 days' notice of their intent to sell before listing the property for sale.
● Following the 30-day notice period, the owner must notify tenants of any third-party offers they receive that they intend to accept.
● Tenants have 30 days from receipt of notice of a third-party offer to exercise their right of first refusal by notifying the owner in writing of their intention to match the third-party offer. Written notice of intent to exercise right of first refusal must be accompanied by a pre-approval and earnest money. The ordinance caps the amount of earnest money a seller can require at 5% of the purchase price.
● The tenants’ offer to purchase must be made collectively by 51% or more of the current tenants in non-owner-occupied units.
● If the offer is accepted, tenants have 60 days to secure financing and complete the closing process.
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● The owner must provide 60 days' notice to tenants of intent to sell before listing the property.
● Once the property is listed for sale, the owner must provide notice of any offer they receive and intend to accept to the tenant association or, if none exists, to each tenant.
● After receiving this notice, tenants have 90 days to form a tenant association and exercise their right of first refusal by giving the owner written notice of their intent to match the third-party offer received. Written notice of intent to sell must be accompanied by a letter of intent from a lender or community organization and earnest money. The ordinance caps the amount of earnest money a seller can require at 5% of the purchase price.
● The tenants' offer to purchase must come from a tenant association representing residents of at least 75% of occupied units.
● The tenant association has 120 days after providing the owner with notice of intent to exercise their right of first refusal to secure financing and complete the closing process.
Humboldt Park Tent Encampment Initiative
Since elected to office, Alderperson Jessie Fuentes has been advocating for resources for unhoused neighbors in Humboldt Park.
The Humboldt Park Tent Encampment Initiative’s mission is to connect residents of the Humboldt Park tent encampment to stable housing, permanent shelter, and supportive services. Over 18 months this initiative has dedicated efforts to address systemic barriers, provide individualized care, and ensure every person has access to dignified and secure living situations. It represents a significant step forward in addressing homelessness with compassion and care.
FAQs
Housing Barriers: Rising rents and gentrification have displaced many long-time residents.
Additionally, the 26th Ward currently lacks a city-run shelter to provide immediate assistance.
Service Gaps: Limited access to coordinated care for mental health, medical needs, and employment.
Complex Needs: Some residents may require multiple services, including mental health care, medical treatment, and job search assistance.
Since May 2023, Alderperson Jessie Fuentes has led efforts to secure resources for the unhoused, partnering with city departments and community organizations to provide direct wraparound services and coordinated cleanings.
Alderperson Fuentes has also been working closely with the Orange Tent Project, Chicago Coalition to End Homelessness, and the Illinois Union of the Homeless regarding strategy and communication with residents of the encampment.
Accelerated Moving Events (AME’s) have offered housing to 106 households to date. AME’s also provide wraparound services like mental health care and case management.
As part of the December 6, 2024 Moving Day, 39 households moved into apartments, 38 moved into congregate and non-congregate shelters, hotel rooms or SROs, five moved in with family, and five chose their own relocation plans.
These efforts were not an eviction, and none of the unhoused residents were arrested. It has been a deeply intentional, housing-first strategy rooted in the unwavering belief that housing is a human right.
Like any unhoused new arrival, they may submit a request for shelter through CHI311 or visit one of three locations for more information related to their specific situation.
- Landing Zone, 800 S Desplaines St, opens at 8:00am
- City of Chicago New Arrivals Website
- Resource Guide for New Arrivals in Chicago - English
- Guía de recursos para migrantes y solicitantes de asilo a Chicago - Español
- Illinois Welcoming Center
- Erie Neighborhood House, 1347 W Erie St, opens at 8:00am
- La Casa Norte, 3533 W North Ave, opens at 9:00am
Following the Moving Day, the Chicago Police Department and Chicago Park District will enforce Chicago Municipal Code section 10-36-185 (“Enforcement of Chicago Park District Ordinance”) which prohibits overnight stays and erecting any tent or structure.
CPK staff will regularly supervise the park and log engagement. Steps for enforcement include:
- Observing tents and notifying the Chicago Park District Security team.
- Encouraging visitors to accept shelter services or relocate.
- Enforcement stickers placed on tents notifying removal within 24 hours.
- Coordinated removal by CPK Landscape and CPD Affinity Officers after the notification period.
Note: CPD does not require a permit to enter/open tents and enforce relocation.
Non-Congregate Shelter: Developing a shelter site at 2704 W North Avenue for private, safer accommodations.
Affordable Housing: Developing over 450 new affordable units and ensuring zero-income housing options.
Rehabilitated CHA Units: Working with the new CHA CEO to restore vacant units in the 26th Ward for immediate use.
Volunteer in cleanup events or contribute to community outreach by connecting with the 26th Ward Office at info@the26thward.org.
Donate to organizations that work to address homelessness:
Media Mentions
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: December 9, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: December 6, 2024
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Media Outlet: WBEZ
Date: December 6, 2024
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Media Outlet: Chicago Tribune
Date: December 6, 2024
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Media Outlet: Chicago Tribune
Date: December 6, 2024
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Media Outlet: Chicago Tribune
Date: December 5, 2024
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Media Outlet: WBEZ
Date: December 4, 2024
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Media Outlet: Chicago Tribune
Date: December 4, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: November 26, 2024
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Media Outlet: WBEZ
Date: October 17, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: October 7, 2024
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Media Outlet: WBEZ
Date: September 20, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: September 18, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: September 13, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: July 31, 2024
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Media Outlet: WTTW
Date: June 7, 2024
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Media Outlet: Centro de Periodismo Investigativo
Date: May 16, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: January 24, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: January 11, 2024
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Media Outlet: WTTW
Date: December 1, 2023
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Media Outlet: WTTW
Date: November 7, 2023
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Media Outlet: WTTW
Date: July 27, 2023
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Boulevard Landmark District Extension Project
The “Logan Square Boulevards District” is a significant part of our community's history and character. An extension of this Landmark District is currently being evaluated. This project builds on decades of historic preservation work and reflects the ongoing commitment of the 26th Ward to maintaining the unique identity of our neighborhoods.
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Encourage sustainable development that respects the character of our community.
Safeguard historically and architecturally significant features of the area from demolition and erasure.
Foster neighborhood pride and stability.
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The current Logan Square Boulevards District was designated a Chicago Landmark District in 2005.
Located on Chicago's Northwest Side, the Logan Square Boulevards District encompasses the largest and best-preserved residential streetscapes along Chicago's lushly landscaped boulevards. The boulevards are lined with handsome single-family residences, two- and three-flats, small apartment buildings, commercial, institutional, and religious buildings that exemplify the visual character and quality of late-nineteenth and early-twentieth century architecture in Chicago's neighborhoods… Most buildings in the Logan Square Boulevards District were built after Chicago's annexation of Logan Square in 1889.”
Extending the Logan Square Boulevards District
An extension of the “Logan Square Boulevards District” from Humboldt Boulevard & Cortland to Sacramento & Augusta Blvd is currently being evaluated.
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An initial survey of the expansion area found approximately 65 Buildings along Humboldt Boulevard from Cortland to North Avenue and the Park.
These buildings are mostly residential and were built between the 1880s and 1929.
A variety of architectural styles used were popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The landscaped wide boulevard provides a distinct sense of place.
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There are approximately 30 Buildings on the east side of Sacramento Boulevard.
They are mostly residential and built between the 1880s and 1929.
A variety of architectural styles used were popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
What does a landmark district mean for the community at large?
• City-wide and National recognition of the community’s historic, architectural, and cultural heritage
• Preservation of existing character and building expand
• Reduce the number of demolitions
• Review of new construction to ensure compliance
Frequently Asked Questions from Property Owners
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When a property is proposed for Chicago Landmark status, and after its designation, all building permit applications are evaluated to determine their impact on the “significant historical and architectural features” of the property. Any work on these features must be approved by the Commission on Chicago Landmarks. These significant features are identified at the beginning of the designation process and codified in the City Council’s designation ordinance. For most landmark districts, significant features typically include exterior building elevations visible from the public right-of-way, except in cases involving demolition.
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No additional city permits are required for landmark buildings. The Commission reviews permits as part of the normal building permit process. Most permits for landmark properties are approved within one day. Routine maintenance, such as painting and minor repairs, does not require a permit. Additionally, the City’s Rehabilitation Code includes a special historic preservation provision, allowing flexibility in applying the Building Code to preserve significant features of historic buildings. For more information, contact the Historic Preservation staff.
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The Commission evaluates permit applications based on established criteria detailed in the Rules and Regulations of the Commission on Chicago Landmarks. These criteria are grounded in the U.S. Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation of Historic Buildings. Policies regarding rehabilitation work, including guidelines for alterations to historic buildings and new construction, are also available from the Historic Preservation staff.
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The Commission does not have jurisdiction over zoning. However, it can recommend adjustments, such as reductions in required setbacks, to ensure that the character of a landmark district is maintained.
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Studies show that landmark designation generally does not negatively impact property values and may even enhance them. Many buyers view landmark designation as an asset, and it is often highlighted in real estate listings. Landmark designation does not directly affect property valuations by the Cook County Assessor’s Office or tax rates.
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Landmark status enhances a building’s prestige, increases property value, and helps stabilize neighborhoods. Designated properties may also be eligible for economic incentives at the federal, state, and local levels. Contact the Historic Preservation staff for more information on these programs.
Community Input Opportunities
Community input has played a crucial role in shaping the vision for the Boulevard Landmark District extension. Below is a summary of engagement activities completed to date:
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May 9, 2024: A meeting was held with 13 community members in attendance, focusing on the historical significance of the proposed extension area and initial feedback.
July 18, 2024: A follow-up meeting was held, attended by 10 residents, to discuss preliminary findings and answer community questions.
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An online survey was distributed to all property owners around the proposed boulevard expansion area. The survey, open for 30 days, closed in September 2024.
Responses: 29 responses were received.
Key Findings: 83% of respondents expressed support for the district extension. A small number of responses came from properties not located on the boulevard, but the overwhelming majority of feedback reflects strong local backing.
Share Your Thoughts
We welcome your continued input on this important project.
Use the form here to submit your questions, comments, or feedback.
Your voice helps ensure this initiative reflects the values and needs of our community.