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48th WARD NEWS: MAY 28, 2026
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ZERO TRAFFIC FATALITIES IN 2025
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Dear Neighbors,
The 48th ward endured a number of deadly traffic accidents in previous years that left families in our community heartbroken. My focus has been to do everything possible to prevent another traffic-related loss. As a ward, we adopted Vision Zero, the goal of no traffic-related deaths or severe injuries. Our approach to this goal has been two-fold: organize our streets and increase enforcement. When we organize our streets with clear spaces for pedestrians, vehicles, and cyclists, everyone is safer.
Today, I am proud to share that the 48th ward was one of 15 wards in the City of Chicago with zero traffic fatalities in 2025. This marks our third consecutive year with zero traffic fatalities. Below are just a few of the projects we’re working on to make our streets safer for everyone in the 48th ward:
- Chicago’s First Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon at Ridge and Wayne
- Geofencing Sheridan to prevent illegal cycling on our sidewalks
- Granville Traffic Calming between Broadway and Clark
- Berwyn Greenway from the North Branch Trail to the Lakefront Trail
- Speed Cameras on Broadway and Sheridan
- Refuge Islands at Broadway/Hood, Broadway/Rosedale, Broadway/Norwood, Broadway/Winona, and Ridge/Hollywood
- Raised Crosswalks & Intersections at Granville/Glenwood, Thorndale/Glenwood, Ardmore/Glenwood, Thorndale/Winthrop, Greenview/Thorndale, and Bryn Mawr/Glenwood
- Bump Outs at Greenview/Highland, Greenview/Rosemont, Hood/Lakewood, Bryn Mawr/Wayne, Bryn Mawr/Magnolia, Bryn Mawr/Lakewood, Foster/Wayne, Clark/Hollywood, Olive/Glenwood, Gregory/Clark, Glenwood/Rosedale, and Elmdale/Magnolia
- Decorative Crosswalks at Sheridan/Rosemont, Sheridan/Granville, Sheridan/Glenlake, Sheridan/Thorndale, Sheridan/Ardmore, Bryn Mawr/Broadway, Bryn Mawr/Winthrop, Bryn Mawr/Kenmore, and Bryn Mawr/Sheridan
- Accessible Pedestrian Signals at Sheridan/Balmoral, Sheridan/Glenlake, Sheridan/Argyle, Broadway/Balmoral, Broadway/Argyle, and Broadway/Ainslie
- Sidewalk, Street, and Alley Repairs throughout the ward
Read more about these on our blog. Thank you to everyone who has engaged with our office to make our streets safer. Together, we can continue to achieve Vision Zero for years to come.
Yours in Community,
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Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth
48th Ward Alderwoman
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DEVON/SHERIDAN SBIF OPENS JUNE 1
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On Monday, June 1, the SBIF application opens for the properties and businesses within the Devon/Sheridan TIF district. We encourage small businesses interested in SBIF to join us for an informational webinar on June 3 at 1pm. Since serving as your Alderwoman, Leni has made $12,319,314 available for 48th ward small businesses through the Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF).
In addition to SBIF, the Community Development Grant (CDG) is accepting applications for grants up to $5 million now through August 14th. Applications for CDG grants for above $5 million are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year.
Recent 48th ward CDG or SBIF awardees include Redtwist Theatre, Great Lake, Qideas, Rivers and Roads Cafe, 88 Plates LLC, Hooked on Fish, the Swedish American Museum, Soundoff, Honeymoon Cafe, Sun Wah BBQ, Raven Theatre, Blowfish, Immm, Diana’s Daycare, Herb, Mella Cafe, Little Corner Snack Shop, Edgewater Candles, Phlour, Edgewater Playhouse, and, Rakkan Ramen. Watch the videos from Mella Cafe and Jenny’s Tofu to learn more about what SBIF means to them and their business.
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DEVELOPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE
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Emanuel Congregation/Fern Hill Redevelopment Community Meeting
- When: Thursday, May 28 at 6:30pm
- Where: Emanuel Congregation (5959 N Sheridan)
- Register online.
Join us to learn about revisions to the proposed Emanuel Congregation synagogue redevelopment plans. This meeting is an opportunity for neighbors to hear directly from the development team, ask questions, and provide feedback on the revised plans that were presented on April 30 at the public congregation meeting. Our online public feedback form will be open for two weeks after the May 28 community meeting.
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Public Hearing for Bryn Mawr Landmark Designation and 1114 W Bryn Mawr Permit Application
- When: Monday, June 15 at 10am
- Where: City Hall - Room 1103 (121 N LaSalle)
- Email [email protected] for more information.
The Commission on Chicago Landmarks (CCL) is hosting a public hearing on the proposed landmark designation for the Bryn Mawr Avenue District and on the preliminary disapproval of the permit application for demolition of 1114 W Bryn Mawr. Please see our blog for a recap of the May 7 CCL meeting regarding the permit application for 1114 W Bryn Mawr and the landmark designation process.
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Chicago Bike Lane Economic Impact Study
As Chicago continues to invest in its bikeway network to improve safe and convenient access to destinations like schools, parks, and local businesses, CDOT has published a series of case studies looking at economic trends before and after bike lane installation. The study includes Clark Street from Lawrence to Edgewater, which includes part of the 48th Ward. Building on research from other cities, the findings show most economic indicators were either positive or neutral, with more people biking and significant safety improvements. View the full report here.
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Ridge Pedestrian Safety Improvements
Two new pedestrian safety improvements are coming to Ridge! These improvements will help to address long-standing pedestrian safety concerns.
Paint & Post Refuge Island at Ridge and Hollywood: We are installing a “paint and post” refuge island at Ridge and Hollywood. This will make it safer for pedestrians crossing at this intersection. This is a collaboration between CDOT and IDOT, and will be installed as a pilot at IDOT’s request. The intent is to upgrade to full concrete in the future. For more about this project see these slides or this recording.
Left Turn Traffic Calming (LTTC) at Ridge and Broadway: We are adding Left Turn Traffic Calming (LTTC) to Broadway and Ridge. This treatment will harden the centerline at the intersection with raised curbs and bollards, guiding drivers to turn at a safer angle with slower speeds and better visibility of people walking.
These improvements are in addition to the historic Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon coming to Ridge and Wayne this summer. We are thrilled to be adding three traffic calming treatments to this IDOT road.
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Example of a raised intersection outside of Amundsen High School.
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Senn High School Pedestrian Safety Improvements
Pedestrian safety improvements at Senn High School will start as soon as Friday, June 5. The improvements include the following:
- Raised intersection at Thorndale and Glenwood
- Raised intersection at Ardmore and Glenwood
- Bump outs at Glenwood and Rosedale
- Raised cross-walk at Greenview and Thorndale
During construction, the intersections will be closed and a detour set up. Temporary “No Parking” signs will be periodically installed as required.
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DWM Bryn Mawr / Sheridan Water Main Construction Update
Construction is underway on the Bryn Mawr / Sheridan water main. The initial excavation revealed extensive utility conflicts that will require a minor change in plans. DWM is currently working with the design team to formalize a change in the new water main's location along Bryn Mawr and anticipates resuming work as soon as the design change is complete. After all buildings are connected to the new water main, final connections will be made to fully remove the old water main from service. Restoration will follow shortly after.
Parking & Traffic Impacts
“No Parking” signs will be posted on both sides of the street during construction hours (7am-4pm). Parking will be allowed outside of work hours and on weekends. Though local traffic may be limited during work hours due to staging and machinery movement, no permanent lane closures are anticipated.
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Broadway Refuge Island Meeting Recap
Construction is underway on the long-anticipated Broadway Pedestrian Refuge Island project! Earlier this week, we hosted a meeting with the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) to review the details and timeline for this project. View a recording of the meeting here. View the meeting slides here.
This project addresses long-time pedestrian safety concerns on the stretch of Broadway between Rosedale and Hood, which sees more traffic accidents than any other street in the 48th ward. The Broadway Pedestrian Refuge Islands and RRFBs project adds 3 protected, raised medians where unprotected crosswalks currently exist and new, highly visible pedestrian signage in the form of 2 pedestrian-activated flashing signals, called Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs).
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Ashland Construction Update
Crews are working on concrete flatwork from Montrose to Foster, including the removal and installation of sidewalks, bump outs, and curb and gutters, and installation of new drainage structures. They anticipate beginning to mill the pavement from Foster south to Montrose as early as this week. Traffic lane closures will continue as needed to facilitate this work.
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Submit Requests and Stay Informed with 311 and ChiStreetWork
For non-emergency city service requests, file a 311 report online, through the app, or by dialing 3-1-1. You can also search for and follow along with local city projects at chistreetwork.chicago.gov.
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Chicago Youth Works Summer Application Deadline Approaching
Chicago Youth Works is your gateway to youth employment opportunities across the city, proudly bringing government, corporate, and community-based employment and internship opportunities to youth ages 14 to 24. Learn more and apply online by May 29.
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Argyle AANHPI Celebration
- When: Sunday, May 31 from 10am-4pm
- Where: HAIBAYÔ (1132 W Argyle)
- No RSVP required
Join us for vendors, art, music, and food as we close out AANHPI month! Come celebrate culture and community!
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Chicago Reparations Study - Share Your Feedback
The City of Chicago is gathering input to help inform the Chicago Reparations Study. We encourage you to complete the survey and share your lived experiences, priorities, and perspectives. The deadline to share your input is May 31.
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2026 Full Moon Jam Schedule
Come to Foster Beach on June 1 for the first Full Moon Jam of the season! The Jam brings together artists and dancers by providing a space for fire performers and drummers to gather and share their creative gifts on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. Set to the percussive beats of local musicians under a full moon, this unique theatrical event is truly a marvel to behold. Learn more and see a full schedule online.
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Edgewater Monday Market
- When: Mondays, June 1 - September 28
- Where: Broadway & Thorndale
- Learn more online.
Chicago’s ONLY Monday farmers market, featuring a diverse lineup of more than 40 vendors, returns on Monday, June 1. Stop by the Broadway Armory Parking lot to shop from over 40 local vendors!
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Friends of McCutcheon Ice Cream Social Fundraiser
- When: Wednesday, June 3 from 4-7pm
- Where: Jeni's - Andersonville (5306 N Clark)
- No RSVP required.
Join the McCutcheon Community at their upcoming ice cream social fundraiser where Jeni's will donate 25% of all purchases to Friends of McCutcheon.
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Edgewater Sidewalk Sale
- When: Saturday, June 6 from 9am-5pm
- Where: Participating Businesses
- Learn more online.
Come stroll around the coolest and thriftiest neighborhood on the north side with friends, neighbors, and visitors during the Edgewater Sidewalk Sale. Dozens of retail stores, shops, and cafes will be open with special discounts and deals. Hunt for treasures, unique gifts, or that one item you’ve always been searching for.
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SAVE THE DATE: Nepali Street Festival
- When: Saturday, August 15
- Where: Bryn Mawr & Kenmore
- Learn more online.
Save the date for the First Ever Nepali Street Festival, brought to you by Nepalese Aid! We're thrilled to be bringing this one-of-a-kind celebration of Nepali culture, community, music, food to Bryn Mawr in the heart of the 48th Ward. This is more than a festival. It’s a celebration of community, identity, and belonging. Want to get involved? See the links below.
- Volunteer sign-up
- Vendor application
- Performer application
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Congratulations Goudy - School of Excellence!
William C. Goudy Technology Academy has been named a 2026 School of Excellence by Magnet Schools of America (MSA). Magnet School of Excellence Awards are only given to a select group of magnet schools. Schools of Excellence are eligible for consideration to receive monetary awards and be named the nation’s top Elementary, Secondary, or New & Emerging Magnet School. Learn more about MSA merit awards here.
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CCPSA Public Meeting
- When: Thursday, May 28 at 6:30pm
- Where: Irish American Heritage Center (4626 N Knox)
- Register online.
At this month’s meeting, the Commission will hear from the Mayor’s Office and organizations working across Chicago to help keep communities safe this summer. The conversation will focus on summer safety efforts impacting children, youth, and families, including violence prevention strategies, youth programming, available community resources, and ways residents and local organizations can work together to support safe neighborhoods.
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Virtual Immigration Workshop: Understanding Your Status
- When: Thursday, June 4 at 6pm
- Where: VIRTUAL
- Register online.
Join the Committee on Immigrant and Refugee Rights for a virtual Immigration Workshop with partners from CAIR, United African Organization, MIRA, Haitian American Museum of Chicago (HAMOC), Syrian Community Network, United Communities Network, Family Focus Nuestra Familia, and Illinois Venezuelan Alliance. This virtual event will provide an immigration update on TPS, Asylum and DACA and the importance of understanding your status. It will provide an overview of understanding the function of each federal agency such as USCIS, Immigration Court, ICE Detainee Locator.
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Groceryland Donation Requests
Last week we celebrated the Street Naming Ceremony for Lori Cannon, a beloved friend, 48th Ward neighbor, and LGBTQ+ activist. In 1985, Lori co-founded Groceryland (formerly Open Hand) which is now managed by Heartland Alliance Health. You can donate to Groceryland at this link or by dropping off non-perishable foods, bottled water, personal care items, and essential household supplies at 5543 N Broadway.
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CHECK OUT THE 48th WARD CALENDAR
Never miss an event! See the calendar on our website for more exciting things happening in the ward. Fill out this form to have your own event listed.
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WHERE IN THE WARD IS LENI?
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Our Neighborhood Services Manager Conor attended the Uptown Connects resource fair along with over 30 other organizations to share resources related to government, health, housing and more. Attendees also had the opportunity to access free HIV testing and CityKey services!
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Last week, we unveiled the "Lori Cannon Way" honorary street sign in front of Groceryland at 5543 N Broadway. Lori spent her life fighting for the rights and recognition of people with HIV/AIDS, serving as the co-founder of ACT Up Chicago, an early volunteer for Chicago House, and a steering committee member for the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt. In 1985, she co-founded Groceryland (formerly Open Hand), a food pantry and meals on wheels service for low-income people with AIDS. Read more on the Windy City Times.
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Peirce Elementary fourth graders came by the ward office this week to learn about local government. We discussed their favorite things about living in Chicago, what we can all do to improve our communities, and how people of all ages can get involved. Thanks to the teachers and chaperones for your help and support and to the students for your incredible questions and insights!
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Thank you to the neighbors at the Lakewood Balmoral Resident’s Council for inviting us to present at your block club meeting! We had a great conversation about construction projects going on in 2026, affordable housing, and more! Click here to invite Leni to present at your block club, building, or HOA meeting.
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