On this day in 1965, one hundred and 20 miles above the earth, Major Edward H. White II opens the hatch of the Gemini 4 and steps out of the capsule, becoming the first American astronaut to walk in space.
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Dear Neighbor, In 2012, I had the honor of being an inaugural class member of the Edgar Fellows. The Edgar Fellows is a program led by former Republican Gov. Jim Edgar which brings together young leaders from across the State of Illinois. The goal: to create critical bi-partisan relationships that prevent political dysfunction. For me, the most memorable part of the program was when Gov. Edgar took the fellows to a working farm outside of Champaign, IL. During the tour, Gov. Edgar made a point to all the fellows about the importance and impact of our agrarian economy. He went on to say that the output from these farms eventually made their way to Chicago's financial centers. He stressed that the success of Illinois' agrarian economy guaranteed the success of Chicago's financial centers and reinforced the point of how much we need each other. Gov. Edgar also talked about leading downstate delegations on CTA tours to highlight the importance of Chicago's transportation network/s to the broader Illinois economy. I appreciated Gov. Edgar's efforts to highlight how interconnected and interdependent we all are to one another. He promoted a message of partnership, statesmanship, bipartisanship, and compromise.
Sadly, today, we have a Governor who is actively dividing the state and pitting communities against one another. Just yesterday, Gov. Rauner likened attempts to pass legislation that ensures CPS pension equity and equitable classroom funding to a corporate bailout. Also yesterday, Gov. Rauner told our downstate neighbors that 'their' tax-dollars should not fund the Chicago political machine. And to be clear, the bills he is referring to do the following: 1. ensure pension equity between Chicago and every municipality in Illinois; 2.bring additional dollars into our classrooms to serve our most vulnerable kids. To say that these bills inject funds into the Chicago political machine is callous, sad, inaccurate and unbecoming of a Governor.
So here is the bottom line: without a State budget, schools across all of Illinois will not open in the fall. As you know, I have spent my entire time in office working to connect our neighborhood schools to everything we do. GROWCommunity is now a standalone organization and is propelling work to build a neighborhood K-12 around Lake View and Amundsen High Schools. This work is now garnering the attention of foundations and other communities around the City of Chicago. And I firmly believe that GROWCommunity will be successful in the regional effort to link neighborhood high schools to feeder schools and provide a cohesive K-12 experience. I am proud of this work. But all of this work, and much more, is in jeopardy if Gov. Rauner continues on his quest to divide the State of Illinois.
So I am going to do continue to do my part and lead at the local level. Here are actions I am willing to take: - I will vote for and co-sponsor a property tax increase to help reduce the deficit at Chicago Public Schools;
- Since February of 2016, I have been very public about canceling new 47th Ward TIF funded projects for schools, parks, Sulzer Library, etc., so that these funds can be available for surplus. My commitment to this effort has not changed.
- Put every 47th Ward TIF District on the table for early retirement.
As I've told you many times before, neighborhood schools are my all-in and that is never going to change. But even if the actions I outlined above are repeated in every ward, absent any State action, the CPS deficit is far too large to close with City/CPS action alone. Gov. Rauner must set aside his extreme political agenda and begin to govern.
As frustrated as I am, I remain hopeful about a budget deal. Why? Because while men like Bruce Rauner and Donald Trump seek to pit people and communities against one another for their own gain, there are more leaders like Gov. Jim Edgar and neighbors like you who've dedicated their lives to bringing people together. And so I will follow his/your lead in the fight for all schools, social services, and communities across Illinois. Thank you for your advocacy and for your patience. It is an honor to serve you. Sincerely,  |
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LV2 Cubs Night Game Parking
LV2 Passes can be picked up in our office. Bring your proof of residence, license plate number, and city sticker number. For further information, please click here. |
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2016 Block Parties
This year's block party application packet can be found by clicking here, or simply come into the 47th Ward Office to pick one up. The Jumping Jack applications are now completed online.
For complete information on block parties, please click here.
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Northcenter Town Square Survey
We're working with the Northcenter Chamber and Northcenter Neighborhood Association to get feedback on improvements to Town Square at Damen & Belle Plaine. Click here to take the survey. |
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Montrose Green (1819 W. Montrose) Update
At the City Council Meeting on May 18, Montrose Green LLC applied for a Type I amendment for their previously approved development at 1819 W. Montrose. Over the past year they have been in discussions with neighboring property owners, and have been able to resolvemany of the issues raised with the project.
Montrose Green LLC has granted easements for the benefit of the apartment building to the west to allow for vehicle ingress and egress off of Wolcott and behind the apartment building. As part of the development of 1819 W. Montrose, the developer will be able to move the dumpsters which are currently on Wolcott to some location behind the commercial buildings at 1825-1835 W. Montrose. The buildings at 1825-1835 West Montrose, however, are not part of the Type I amendment application.
While the building envelope and height at 1819 W. Montrose has not changed there are changes to the number of units and parking spaces. The building will now have 38 dwelling units, four off-street parking spaces, and at least 34 bike parking spaces. The city's new transit-oriented development ordinance seeks to encourage developers near transit stations to increase units and decrease parking and the proposal at 1819 W. Montrose follows this planning policy. Montrose Green, LLChas also agreed to provide all 4 required affordable units on-site.
To see a summary of changes to the development, please click here.
To see updated drawings of the development, please click here.
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New Affordable Housing Opportunity
Crossroads of East Ravenswood is opening their waiting list for 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments on June 4, 2016 between the hours of 10am-3pm only; for those who qualify under the Section 8 program.
You may apply at www.crossroadsofer.com or obtain a questionnaire at 1614 W. Wilson Ave. Chicago, IL 60640. The form must be returned by U.S. Mail and will not be accepted if it is dropped off. Maximum income limits and eligibility guidelines apply. Applicants will be placed on a waiting list in order of date & time the preliminary questionnaire is received.
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Larviciding for Mosquitoes Begins
Continuing through the next several weeks, staff under contract with the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) will drop larvicide in catch basins throughout the City. This annual activity is done to decrease the number of mosquitoes that are hatched and can transmit the West Nile virus. Crews are easily identifiable as they will be wearing orange vests.
What is a larvicide? A larvicide is a type of insecticide used to kill or interrupt the development of immature forms of mosquitoes, preventing them from becoming adults. The brand name of the larvicide that we use is Altosid® XR-Briquets.
Is the larvicide safe? This larvicide is registered for use by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and is safe for humans as well as for animals that may come in contact with it, including fish and birds.
How will I know when the larvicide is being placed in my neighborhood? Crews will be easily recognized: They will be wearing orange vests and will be walking up and down the street placing the larvicide in catch basins. They will be escorted by a City van.
How is the larvicide used? The larvicide is uniquely shaped to fit between the small openings in the catch basins. Once in the catch basin, small amounts of the active ingredient is released over time.
Which areas of the City will larvicide be placed? Larvicide is placed in areas of the City where data have shown an increased likelihood of identifying mosquitoes infected with the West Nile virus. North of 83rd Street, this includes areas west of Ashland Avenue. South of 83rd, this includes areas west of Stony Island Avenue.
Does this effort help address Zika virus? This effort is primarily focused on combating West Nile virus by decreasing the number of mosquitoes that can transmit this virus. Though Zika virus is also transmitted by mosquitoes, the risk for Chicagoans for contracting Zika virus is low, as the main species of mosquito that transmits this virus is not native to Chicago. However, CDPH will be placing traps throughout the City to monitor for the types of mosquitoes that can transmit Zika virus. For more information regarding Zika, CDPH has created fact sheets in English and Spanish.
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No More Grace Period on City of Chicago Vehicle Stickers, Beginning July 1
Chicago City Clerk Susana A. Mendoza is urging Chicago motorists to be aware of a change in grace period rules regarding deadlines for purchasing and displaying their Chicago City Vehicle Sticker. Beginning July 1, 2016, changes to the Chicago Municipal Code regarding the grace period will make motorists eligible to be ticketed immediately following their vehicle sticker's expiration. For example, if your vehicle sticker expires on June 30, you are eligible to be ticketed on July 1. The $200.00 ticket can be issued daily. The grace period for late fees will be extended from 15 to 30 days effective July 1. A motorist with a vehicle sticker expiring June 30 will have until July 30 to purchase a sticker without paying an additional $60.00 late fee. The Office of the City Clerk wants motorists to avoid tickets and additional fees at all costs. Please purchase and display your vehicle stickers in a timely manner. Also remember that our Office has over 350 community partner vendors, including currency exchanges, which are open to serve you on weekends and holidays. It is the goal of our Office to ensure every customer has a positive experience when buying their vehicle sticker. Please visit ChiCityClerk.com to conveniently purchase your Chicago City Vehicle Sticker online via EZ>BUY or to find the nearest location to buy in person.
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47th Ward A&C*
*Arts & Culture
Special Events
DANK Haus, 4740 N Western Ave. The German American Cultural Center for Chicago: check out the many diverse events that they sponsor. http://dankhaus.com/events
Comedy
Corn Productions Cornservatory, 4210 N. Lincoln Ave. DRINK! Summer Edition, Saturday 11 PM thru August 6. www.cornservatory.org
Chemically Imbalanced Comedy, 1422 W. Irving Park Rd. Free Open Mic every Wednesday at 9 PM
All art forms from music and acting sketches to comedic stand up will be presented to the public from local artists. See website for improv and comedy sketches on other nights of the week. www.cictheater.com
Laugh Out LoudChicago, 3851 N. Lincoln Ave.
Comedy created on the spot from audience suggestions like Whose Line is it Anyway?
www.laughoutloudtheater.com
American Legion Tattler Post 973, 4355 N. Western Ave.
Tattler Tales Stand-Up Showcase every third Friday of the month, doors open at 7 PM, show at 8 PM (18+ recommended).
Theater
Black Ensemble Theater, 4450 N. Clark St.
The Marvin Gaye Story, thru July 10 Wednesdays & Thursdays 7 PM, Fridays 8 PM, Saturdays 3 PM & 8 PM, Sundays 3 PM.
Marvin Pentz Gay, Jr, otherwise known as Marvin Gaye, was known for his deeply soulful music and his phenomenal success in the music industry. The Marvin Gaye Story brings back the spirit of the "Prince of Soul" with songs like "Mercy, Mercy, Me" and "What's Goin' On." This production serves as a musical journey of the legendary man behind the music.
Bughouse Theater, 1910 W. Irving Park Rd.
Pigpen, sing-a-long story time for kids aged 6 months to preschool, FREE.
Hogwash: An Improvised Tall Tale, improvised children's show on Saturdays 10:30 AM, kids $10, adults FREE.
CIS showcase, hosted by Chicago Improv Studio, Thursdays 8 PM, $5.
Skull Mountain, improv variety show hosted by The Comet and Fun Fun Boys, Fridays 8 PM, $10.
Improv TONIGHT, long form improv, Saturdays 8 PM, $10.
BugHOUSE Party, improv because our parents are out of town, Saturdays 10 PM, $10.
Writer's Block Party, a writer's room, workshop, meet up and forum, Sundays 4 PM to 6 PM FREE.
The Public House Theatre, 3914 N. Clark St. Bye Bye Liver: The Chicago Drinking Play, Fridays & Saturdays 8 PM & 10 PM, $15-$20.
A series of outrageous and hilarious comedic sketches, all centered around one thing ... alcohol! http://pubhousetheatre.com
Belmont Theater District, Rav
enswood-Irving Park-Diversey-Lake Michigan
Free & Discounted (under $15) Theater Tickets. The Belmont Theater District is Chicago's largest theater district with over 30 theaters located within a 1 mile radius. Visit www.BTDChicago.com to find the perfect show, enjoy exclusive discounts & packages from neighborhood businesses within walking distance of your theater and join their mailing list for first crack at ticket offers, exciting BTD events like the recent sold-out BTD Open House Tour - and insider theater info!
Music
Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago's premier institution dedicated to the preservation and performance of folk and other music.
www.oldtownschool.org/concerts
Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave.
Small bar & live-music venue showcasing eclectic performers, with a menu of pizza & bar bites.
www.martyrslive.com
High-Hat Club, 1920 W Irving Park Rd. Serving up nightly live entertainment including comedy, jazz, rock, Creole-Italian style food and fine cocktails. www.highhat.club/event
Silvie's Lounge, 1902 W. Irving Park Rd. Enjoy a wide variety of musical genres, local talent as well as touring acts in one of the most acoustically appealing venues in Chicago. www.silvieslounge.comSee calendar
CHIRP Radio
With studios near Irving and Rockwell, this independent radio station for and by Chicago's true music fans is celebrating its fifth birthday this year and later this summer you'll be able to hear it over the air as well at 107.1FM! CHIRP also hosts an array of music, arts and culture focused events throughout the year.
http://chirpradio.org
Visual Arts
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Chicago Public Library Events
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School Tours & Promotions
Brochure for Prospective Amundsen Students and Families
Amundsen High School offers a top-performing International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme, 25 varsity sports, more than 40 clubs and a thriving cultural environment where every student feels challenged and valued. Learn more about what our neighborhood high school has to offer in Amundsen's new brochure.
Lake View High School
Lake View Spring Numbers for how students are planning for their futures.
* 265 (92% of seniors) students have applied to 3 or more colleges/universities
* 47 juniors applied to the DePaul College Connect enrichment program
* 31 juniors advanced to the next round for Chicago Scholars
* 12 freshmen advanced to interview for the Northwestern Academy
* 79 students admitted to attend DePaul University
* 32 students admitted to attend UIUC (Go Illini!)
* 5 students earned full-tuition scholarships to IIT (9 students admitted to IIT)
* 2 students interviewing for the Chicago Cubs Scholars Program
* 1 Chick Evans Caddie Scholarship Recipient (full tuition and housing to UIUC)
* 1 Gates Millennium Scholarship Finalist (full tuition from undergrad to doctorate)
Bell Elementary
Coonley Elementary
McPherson Elementary
St. Matthias School
St. Benedict School
North Park Elementary School
Pilgrim Lutheran Church & School
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Dara Reports
High School Intern: work with aldermanic staff, volunteer in the 47th Ward Office. Work part-time; set your own schedule for the summer. Email; dara@chicago47.org
Want a FREE 18" oak tree(s) for your yard, church, school or park? The minimum number for us to order is 100. Help us find homes for 100 trees and we'll get them. They may be planted anywhere in Cook County.
Coyote sightings are on the increase. Read the suggestions below to be aware of what to do if you encounter one of our furry neighbors. We've seen them on both sides of the river near Berteau.
Summer weather is upon us and our pets need our protection from the heat.
Reminder from our 19th District CAPS Sargent: Do not leave any type of keys in your car and remember to lock your car doors. Keep your house doors and windows locked at night and when you aren't home.
A neighbor on Newport's locked back-porch windows thwarted would-be robbers last week. From that same neighbor: For your garage: secure the emergency red pull cord to the bar. This prevents thieves from using a hangar or something to stick through the top of your garage and reaching the pull to unlock your main garage door.
Join Forward Chicago on June 9, at 6pm for a tasty meal at Mythos Grecian Taverna 2030 W. Montrose. You'll think you walked into the welcoming home of Greek neighbors.
Welles Park would like your feedback on the two site designs that will be presented for the Nature Area with a Nature Play component for the south side of the park. June 20th 7pm at Welles Park
City Sticker Expiration Information: You must display your new city sticker before your old one expires at the end of the month. There is no grace period for expired city stickers. The day after your city sticker expires you may receive a $200 ticket every day until you display a new city sticker. There is no additional fee if you purchase your city sticker within 30 days of the expiration of your current city sticker. After 30 days, a $60 late fee will be added to the cost of your city sticker. Non-commercial pick-up trucks must have a city sticker to park on residential or business streets. Non-commercial pick-up trucks owned by non-Chicago residents may only park on business streets. Commercial trucks may not park on any street in Chicago, unless they have a sign in the window indicating where they are currently working. One Month Only! Check out Operation Help a Hero http://www.operationhelpahero.org/ we're collecting dozens of household items for homeless vets in Chicago. Let's all help them. Look at your State of IL License Plate Sticker. What month does it expire? The state will not send you a reminder via the mail. Register online at: www.cyberdriveillinois.com for an email notification and to renew your license sticker online. Join neighborhood dog lovers for a fundraiser benefitting the future Horner Dog Park. If you've never been to Lagunitas this is a perfect opportunity; a win-win. Help Wanted in the neighborhood: Certify your habitat garden as a commitment to wildlife with the National Wildlife Federation. Birds, bees and butterflies will thank you by living in and visiting your garden.
Recycling Reminder! Shredded paper goes in the Black Cart and everything that goes into the Blue Cart must be loose - not in a bag. If you find that neighbors are using your Blue Cart incorrectly, we have signs for you to affix to your cart which is a reminder of what goes where.
Montrose Metra Community Garden Volunteer Days - benefit our community and enjoy the garden. The garden is hosting reoccurring community volunteer days on the 15th of every month. 11am-1pm on the weekend and 5-7pm during the week. Wednesday, June 15; Friday, July 15; Monday, August 15; Thursday, September 15; Saturday, October 15; Tuesday, November 15.
We will tend the vegetable plots that benefit our neighborhood food pantries, care for our pollinator garden and fruit bushes and trees. Bring your children.
The calendar says it's time to garden in Chicago! We continue to encourage you to create gardens in the public way; parkways and corners. Not only are these gardens lovely they also provide many benefits. They help keep water out of the street and basements, are necessary for pollinators like bees and butterflies and they help build a strong sense of community. Grass is a close second to concrete in contributing to the increase of flooding.
For anyone who is planning to plant in the public way; we have resources for these beautiful additions to our community. Also, if you want to plant a corner garden, but don't live on the corner, we have forms for you. If you see an area that could use a "gardening lift", call us - we'll help you get started.
However, there are a couple of caveats for those of us who garden in the public way: city departments , utilities or private contractors may need access to this area, without warning. This means they can remove your plants and are under no obligation to replace them. Personally, I don't plant perennials that I really love and can't stand to lose. Also, anything that is a permanent structure such as a bench or fence requires a permit ; which is on our website. Please take a look at the Infrastructure Update in our newsletter for scheduled work.
There is no better way to insure you live in a safe, cohesive, friendly neighborhood than to be a member of a Block Club or Neighborhood Group. If there is one in your area, please join and get involved. It isn't hard to start one; I promise. We have a simple way to reach out to folks and to make it fun for everyone. Below are some offerings for you.
- Organize a Block Party; everyone who has one really enjoys a day with neighbors; not to mention a day of no traffic on their street.
- Montrose Metra Community Gardens has created an informative gardening series at Sulzer Library.
- Our annual Plant Exchange is coming up on May 21st. Clean out your garage, separate perennials, pick up some new plants or just stop by to visit. Rain or Shine
- Rain Barrels are available (up to 4!) for free. Want less water in the street? Rain barrels are one piece of the puzzle.
- We have signs to remind dog owners of their obligations & to tell others that We Call Police. Stop in for these.
- Our office is looking for a college intern and a high school volunteer for the summer. Know anyone who fits the bill?
Please share this with your neighbors. If you have any ideas about other ways we can help build a strong community, please let me know
Stop in for the Spring 2016 Life Enrichment Programs for Chicagoans 60 years and Better Schedule. It lists the wide array of programming available in our two excellent local Senior Centers; Levy Regional and North Center Satellite Center. Whether you need a refresher in Rules of the Road, want to try your luck at Bingo, love old radio performances or are ready to discuss end of life decisions - these are the places for you.
Have an old television you want to donate? There's a resale store that accepts televisions (not just flat screens!): Unique. www.savers.com/unique
Have extra plastic bags in your house? Take these items to the local Jewel: plastic grocery bags from any retailer, dry cleaning bags, produce bags, trash can liners bread bags. These recyclables are used to make durable fencing and decking. Another win-win-win: keeping these out of the garbage, getting them out of your house and creating items that are good for the environment.
When does your State of Illinois license plate tag expire? You will not receive a renewal notification. Please mark it on your calendar; there is no grace period. The new tag must be displayed by the end of the expiration month.
The EPA no longer recommends recycling single use batteries, as they don't contain heavy metals. They can be tossed into your regular black cart garbage.
Please bring your rechargeable batteries to our office anytime. We will be collecting single use batteries during our twice yearly, spring and fall recycling events only. They will be sent to a recycler in Michigan.
If you know a senior or someone living with a disability living in a single family home, please let us know if they need help with snow removal.
Good Books Wanted!
It feels so satisfying to give books you or your children have already read or outgrown, to others who enjoy reading. Or perhaps the book you give away becomes that special one that propels someone to love reading? We always need good books for our Little Free Library. We're here 9-5 Monday-Friday.
CAPS Meetings! Why should you attend? Learn how to be proactive in preventing crime, have your concerns heard. http://chicago47.org/beat-meetings/
You may attend any CAPS Meeting in your district (south of Lawrence is #19; north of Lawrence is #20).
FREE, yes FREE, Rain Barrels are available to everyone who wants to disconnect their downspouts. Thanks to the 47th Ward partnership with Metropolitan Water Reclamation District & Chicago Historic Bungalow Association. You may request up to 4 rain barrels! The next helpful step you can take is to plant a rain garden for your overflow; instead of having water in your basement, alley or the street.
There is less open land in our neighborhood, with that comes more water with nowhere to go. Our streets are designed to hold water, then to slowly drain - but with these larger rain events there is more water than our combined system can handle. Does your alley flood? Does storm-water runoff from your garage go into the alley; does it seem that there is more water on your property than ever before? Talk to your neighbors. Help one another to disconnect gutters. The more houses on your block that use rain barrels the less flooding you'll have. Please contact Dara@chicago47.org
Thanks to all of you who donated blankets/towels for the shelters. A car load was taken to Treehouse. Please keep them coming.
If you or a neighbor is a shut-in, a Hot Meal is available every Saturday afternoon from the kind volunteers at Pilgrim Lutheran Church; call Janet Taylor 773-777-4052 or Jackie Mokszycki 773-961-8740
Do you garden on a corner or parkway? Please take a look at the list of upcoming water main projects in the 'infrastructure update' section of the newsletter. You may have to move your plants so they won't be destroyed or disappear.
Please be sure to report any drain that does not clear within 24 hours of rainfall to the 47th Ward Office or 311. Don't have a use for your old cell phones? Drop them off at the alderman's office. We collect year round for Cell Phones for Soldiers. There couldn't be an easier way to help our soldiers stay in touch with family & friends.
Forward Chicago, a grass-roots, all volunteer, non-profit brings active, involved, engaged folks together. Whether you enjoy walking in the neighborhood, are looking for a Book Club, into handcrafts, ready to learn or already play bridge, relish going to new restaurants for lunch or dinner or have another idea you'd like to bring to life, join us. www.forwardchicago.org
Ongoing Collections:pet food for Friendship Pet Food Pantry,blankets and towels are always needed for clean bedding at area pet shelters. Used games for Sulzer Library's Game Night, eyeglasses, unwanted CD's can become part of an art project. Artists and teachers need them. Bring these to the alderman's office.
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Western Avenue Viaduct Removal Project
The half-century old viaduct over Belmont on Western Avenue has been deteriorating for some time, and is reaching the end of its useful life. CDOT hosted an open house to discuss their plans to remove this viaduct.
This project will not only remove the viaduct, but will also rehabilitate the Western Avenue Bridge over the Chicago River, reconstruct/resurface the roadway on Western from Jones to Waveland, provide 13'-wide sidewalks, add a third travel lane in each direction during peak hours, provide over 80 new on-street parking spaces, and make pedestrian-minded intersection improvements like the addition of countdown timers and pedestrian refuge islands at unsignalized crossings. To review the design and other project details, please click here.
This project is expected to take 18-24 months to complete, and traffic lanes on Western Avenue will be reduced/shifted during the various phases of the project to allow for this work.
Work on Stage 1 will continue through August 2016. There will be one lane of traffic open in each direction of Western Avenue for the duration of this work.
Roscoe:
The week of June 6th, new storm sewer is scheduled to be installed across the Roscoe and Western intersection. This work is anticipated to take 7 - 10 days to complete. During this time traffic on Roscoe will be restricted from making left turns onto Western Avenue. Advanced signing was placed on Roscoe this week warning the public of this upcoming work.
South of the Western Ave Chicago River Bridge:
Traffic Control between N. Jones Street and the Western Avenue River Bridge was set up on the eastside of Western Ave. this week. The contractor has begun some advanced removal work in preparation of the improvements. Starting the week of June 13th the contractor will begin curb and sidewalk removals for new sewer and electrical installations. An information flyer was distributed to the homeowners and business owners along Western Avenue who will be directly impacted by this stage of work. The flyer included contact information so the property owners can contact me or the Contractor at any time if they have any questions. Coordination will take place with all property owners to maintain access to their properties at all times. This work is anticipated to last through the end of August.
Stage 1, currently underway, includes: removal of the viaduct (complete), deck replacement on the River Bridge, and roadway construction. The work zone during this phase will extend from the south approach of the Chicago River Bridge north to Roscoe. During this time, there will be only one lane in each direction along Western Avenue. This is the most severe restriction in place during the project, and will last approximately 5 months. Once stage 1 is completed, there will be two lanes of traffic in each direction for the remainder of the project (approx. 18 months). To review the stages of construction and traffic control plan, please click here.
This project will have a profound impact to the travel times along Western Avenue. We will keep this article updated as information becomes available on start dates and other important notices once the project gets underway. If you have any questions, please contact the 47th Ward Office.
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47th Ward Infrastructure Update
Water Main Replacement Lincoln Avenue from Belmont to Addison, Marshfield from Roscoe to School, Newport from Ravenswood to Lincoln & School from Marshfield to 130' east of Marshfield
Contractors working with the Department of Water Management are replacing the water mains from 1890 under the streets detailed above. The contractor has capped the trench and restoration is mobilizing. No Parking will be posted M-F from 7am to 4pm where needed for curb and sidewalk work. No parking will be staged to the greatest extent possible. For more information, please click here. Water Main Replacement for Lincoln Avenue from Lawrence to Montrose and Wilson from Lincoln to Leavitt Contractors working with the Department of Water Management are replacing the water mains from 1892 under the streets detailed above. No Parking will be necessary M-F from 7am to 4pm, and will be staged to the greatest extent possible. The new water main on Lincoln is complete and services have been transferred. The trench has been capped and restoration will continue. For more information, please click here.
Water Main Replacement Damen & Lincoln from Addison to Irving Park
Contractors working with the Department of Water Management have replaced the water mains from 1890 under Damen & Lincoln from Addison to Irving Park. Contractors have capped their trench with concrete on Lincoln. Full restoration will come when the weather warms in the Spring. For more information on this project, please click here.
Sewer Main Replacement for Wolcott from Lawrence to Winnemac
Contractors woking with the Dept. of Water Management are replacing the sewers from 1905 under Wolcott from Winnemac to Lawrence. Temporary concrete is in place and parking is restored on the 4800 block. Crews have resumed installation of sewer main on Wolcott from Ainslie to Winnemac. The 1800 block of Argyle can be accessed via the N/S alley just east of Wolcott. Sewer installation is complete. Final asphalt, concrete, and landscaping restoration is expected to be completed in May of 2016. For complete information on this project, please click here.
Water Mains Coming Soon:
Ravenswood (east side) from Waveland Avenue to Irving Park Road. (Spring 2016)
Dakin from Western Avenue to Campbell Avenue (Spring 2016)
Winchester from Lawrence to Wilson & Leland from Damen to Wolcott (Spring 2016)
Metra Project- Phase II Metra and Union Pacific expect to start construction on the second and final phase of their project along Ravenswood in late 2016 or early 2017. The project is expected to last approximately 3 years and this work is funded by the Federal Transit Administration. Phase II work on the east side will mirror much of the Phase I work on the west side, which was completed in 2015. Phase II includes the construction of a new inbound Ravenswood station on the east side of the tracks between Leland and Lawrence, and the replacement of 11 bridges on the east side of the tracks from Grace up to Balmoral. Design and engineering work is being completed and the project will go out to bid this spring/summer. A community meeting will be scheduled for this summer to notify residents and businesses of the work that is planned. For more information, please click here.
For more information, visit the infrastructure section of our website or contact Jim Poole at jim@chicago47.org or 773-868-4747. |
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Community Events
For details on the events listed below, please see the events section of our website.
Want to put your community event in our newsletter? Check the guidelines on our website.
CAPS Meetings. If you would like to get to participate in community policing or express concerns about crime happening in your area, please consider attending your beat meetings. A schedule of beat meetings is available on our website. If you have any questions about CAPS or need additional information, please contact Jim Poole jim@chicago47.org. 19th District CAPS Office (All areas of the 47th Ward south of Lawrence) 312-744-0064 or CAPS019District@chicagopolice.org. 20th District CAPS Office (All areas of the 47th Ward north of Lawrence) 312-742-8770 or CAPS020District@chicagopolice.org.
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