← Back to newsletters

October 2026 Newsletter

Relevance: 8/10
transit_funding city_budget tax_policy zoning_or_development_meeting_or_approval

Summary

Third Ward Alderman Pat Dowell reports the City Council passed a renegotiated “parking meter deal” on September 29, improving the City of Chicago’s financial terms, including $75 million up front for pension obligations and additional long-term concessions; she also supported related oversight in housing and infrastructure policy. She further sponsored ordinances/resolutions including: requiring special use permits for certain single-room occupancy (SRO) developments, creating a Problem Landlord and Housing Court Coordination Task Force, and calling for City Council hearings on Amtrak Midwest Maintenance facility site selection. Other updates include Ald. Dowell attending the Bronzeville Trail open house (framework plan expected to finalize in early 2027), providing 43rd Street construction/street-scape status updates, and noting September/October CAPS meeting dates, plus major city events like the October 11 Chicago Marathon and related street/parking restrictions.

Email from Aldermanic Office of the Third Ward

(View as Webpage)

Third Ward Newsletter

October 2026

In this Issue


Third Ward Update


3rd Ward Star



Important Announcements



October CAPS

Dear John Smith,


On September 29th, the City Council passed a renegotiated "parking meter deal" which includes significantly better financial terms for the City of Chicago than the original deal from 2008. The City Council was forced to vote on the sale of the meters once again because the original 2008 contract required City Council to authorize any future sale of the parking meters. Using what limited leverage we had, I led discussions - along with my colleagues Aldermen Walter "Red" Burnett, Gilbert Villegas, Nicole Lee and Scott Waguespack - with the new owners of the meters to get concessions built into the contract that we didn't have when the parking meter deal was first passed.


A huge thank you to Corporation Counsel Mary Richardson-Lowry, the City of Chicago Law Department, Mark Rotatori from Jones Day, and the Chicago Department of Finance for the contributions they made to help my colleagues and I negotiate this deal and get it across the finish line.


Calling this issue a political “hot potato” isn’t quite enough. More like a political nuclear bomb. No one likes the 2008 deal. And having to open it up again and vote on it on the record is not something anyone wants to do. The City Council only had very limited means to deny the sale. The only reasons we could consider were: the financial strength of the proposed new owner, the experience of the proposed new owner in operating similar infrastructure, the new owner's ability to meet the system's operating standards, and the background and reputation of the proposed new owner. Otherwise, we could not withhold or delay the approval of the sale.


My colleagues and I took this requirement as an opportunity to make a bad deal better. Using that limited leverage we got very real concessions from the new owners. Concessions that we didn’t have going into this process. These include:


  • A $75 million up front payment from Stonepeak that will go to help pay down our pension obligations.
  • A 5% stake in the future revenue of the company that must also go towards the City's pensions.
  • A clause for 2% of the sale should the meters be sold again, revenue from which must go to the City's pension obligations.
  • A commitment that Stonepeak will divest from Omni Air, which contracted with the Federal government to conduct deportation flights.
  • An exemption from meter fees charged to the City during certain major events. 
  • A commitment that 50% of parking meter employees must be residents of the City of Chicago.
  • A commitment to protecting parking meter employees from street harassment. 
  • Potential upgrades to the system like electric charging stations. 
  • Data protections for individuals who use the parking meter system.
  • Annual audits of the concession agreement


These are real and numerous benefits that we did not have in the original contract. While some may argue that we could have gotten more, that is not how negotiations work. We exerted all the legal leverage we had. Remember, in the original deal we had NO long-term benefits, just a bad deal. We made this bad deal better - for us today, and for the future residents of the City of Chicago.


The 3rd Ward Public Service Office staff and I are available to assist you by phone at 773-373-9273 or via email at [email protected]. Thank you for reading this newsletter. Please share it with a neighbor or friend.


Sincerely,


Pat Dowell

Alderman, 3rd Ward

 

Third Ward Update

Alderman Dowell Attends Bronzeville Trail Open House

Alderman Dowell was proud to attend the open house for the Bronzeville Trail September 23rd. A project she has long championed, the Bronzeville Trail Open House provided residents with an opportunity to share their ideas for the proposed trail and surrounding areas, including pedestrian and bicycle improvements, trail amenities, access ramps, and other enhancements to improve neighborhood connectivity and access to public space. Community feedback will help inform the framework plan, including how the trail connects to surrounding neighborhoods and what improvements should be prioritized as the project moves forward.


Launched in fall 2025, the Bronzeville Trail Framework Plan is a long-term planning process focused on the proposed conversion of the former Kenwood rail embankment and identifying opportunities to improve the surrounding area. The framework plan is anticipated to be finalized in early 2027 and will serve as a guide for future improvements within the study area. For more information about the trail, visit www.bronzevilletrail.org.

Alderman Dowell Joins One Community Near South Discussion

On September 29th, Alderman Dowell, along with her colleagues Alderman Bill Conway (34th), Lamont Robinson (4th), and Nicole Lee (11th), took part in a neighborhood discussion with One Community Near South. Thank you to Grace Place (637 S. Dearborn St.) for hosting, and to everyone who came out to engage in this wide-ranging conversation. The event focused on "The 78" development, neighborhood bike lanes, public safety, the proposed Amtrak railyard project, and area traffic management.

Residents, Business, Alderman Dowell Enjoy Final Bronzeville Summer Nights in 2026

Culture and Commerce was on display for the last Bronzeville Summer Nights in 2026. The final night of events featured businesses along 47th Street and entrepreneurs at the South Side Sanctuary. Organized by Quad Communities Development Corporation, this annual event always draws a crowd! Thank you to Rhonda McFarland, QCDC staff, and the entire business community for showing up and showing out for our wonderful Bronzeville neighborhood. Already looking forward to 2027!

Alderman Dowell Partners with ILSOS Giannoulias for Mobile DMV

Thank you to the office of Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias for bringing their Mobile DMV van down to the 3rd Ward. Mobile DMV services include: driver's license renewals, corrections, and replacements; converting a standard driver's license to a REAL ID; new, renewed, or corrected State IDs (including free state IDs for seniors aged 65+); vehicle registration and license plate sticker sales; voter registration; and organ/tissue donor sign-ups. This was a great opportunity for local residents to access the DMV without traveling to a regular Illinois Secretary of State location.

Alderman Dowell Celebrates Debut of Roberts Temple Facade Restoration

"Let the world see what I see” said Mrs. Mamie Till-Mobley after the grisly murder of her only child whose funeral was held at Roberts Temple COGIC (4021 S. State St.) in Bronzeville. To preserve the Church's place in the history of the Civil Rights movement, Alderman Dowell was proud to celebrate the historic facade restoration in recognition of the Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley National Monument. It was an occasion to reflect on the past and spark inspiration with remarks from Dr. Marvel Parker, Bishop Ocie Booker, Congressman Bobby Rush, National Trust for Historic Preservation CEO and President Brent Leggs, and Tiffany Tolbert of the African American Cultural Heritage Fund.

Renaissance Collaborative Completes Wabash YMCA Phase I and II Renovation

Alderman Dowell was on hand to celebrate the completion of Phase I and Phase II of the renovation of the landmarked Wabash YMCA (3763 S. Wabash Ave.). Congratulations to The Renaissance Collaborative for their hard work throughout this important restoration process, led by Executive Director Oji Eggleston and Board President Sheila Radford-Hill. State Representatives Kim du Buclet (5th), Michael Crawford (31st) and Alderman Pat Dowell spoke about the past, present and future impact of this Bronzeville institution.

Alderman Dowell Joins Ray Graham Block Party

Ray Graham Training Center (2347 S. Wabash Ave.) hosted their annual block party in September, and the street was full of young people and their teachers having some good old-fashioned fun! Principal Kusan Thomas has been a great leader of this institution in the South Loop.


Ray Graham Training Center offers all students ages 18-22 an individualized instructional program that is designed to meet their unique educational, physical and emotional needs. Ray Graham provides a developmentally appropriate, culturally sensitive and community responsive education that assists their students in becoming productive members of society.

Phillips Academy High School Alumni Association Wins Alumni Challenge

Alderman Dowell was on hand to help congratulate the Phillips Academy High School Alumni Association for winning this year’s CPS Alumni Challenge. For their victory, the Children First Fund presented a $5,000 check to Phillips Academy High School. Congratulations and great job to the alumni, students and faculty! Wildcats know how to turn out!


The Children First Fund promotes the growth and success of Chicago Public Schools through philanthropy and partnerships. They serve as a knowledge hub and liaison between CPS and its community of partners, including businesses, foundations, and individuals.

Second Presbyterian Church Unveils Newly Restored Jeweled Tiffany Window

On September 19th, Second Presbyterian Church (1936 S. Michigan Ave.) held a celebration to reveal their newest, fully restored 134-year-old jeweled Tiffany window. This brings the total number of restored Tiffany stained-glass windows to four with eight still awaiting restoration. Thank you to Friends of Historic Second Church and Marshall Field V for driving this project forward.


This window was restored by Tom Venturella as part of a 14-month effort to revive the magnificent stained-glass structure. At 16 feet high and 8 1/2 feet wide, the window was originally designed by the firm of Louis Comfort Tiffany, and was donated to Second Presbyterian by the family of department store founder Marshall Field in 1927. To see the windows, tour the historic church, or take in a service, visit www.secondpreschicago.org.

43rd Steet Construction Updates

Alderman Dowell is providing an update to the construction activity currently underway along 43rd Street between Cottage Grove Avenue and Prairie Avenue.


The Department of Water Management's (DWM) water main project is nearing completion. Concrete work has been completed, with the remaining work consisting primarily of minor paving on Vernon Avenue, approximately 300 feet of paving on 43rd Street near Cottage Grove Avenue, and minor landscaping. DWM anticipates completing the remaining work within approximately 1–2 weeks.


The Chicago Department of Transportation's upcoming 43rd Street Streetscape Section 2, covering from approximately Prairie Avenue to Evans Avenue, is currently in the procurement process. Construction is anticipated to begin in Spring 2027. Based on the timeline of similar streetscape work, businesses and property owners should anticipate that construction will likely extend well over a year, with some final project elements potentially not installed until 2029.


Additional information about the overall project is available on the Bronzeville Corridor Streetscape Improvements page. CDOT will provide advance notice and informational materials prior to construction. Once work begins, regular coordination meetings will also be held to help address construction impacts and maintain communication with businesses, property owners, residents, and other stakeholders along the corridor.


Finally, construction at the 43rd Street Green Line Station is anticipated to continue through the end of 2026. The project is currently approximately six months behind its original substantial-completion schedule due to unforeseen conditions encountered during construction.

Finding Public EV Charging in Chicago

Charging your electric vehicle outside of the home can be difficult. Luckily, the Chicago Department of Transportation has some helpful tips on how to find a public EV charging station while you are out! First, use an online map or app to locate EV chargers and see information about the stations before you travel. Apps like the Alternative Fueling Station Locator, PlugShare, or your vehicle's navigation system or mobile app can help.


Second, know your charging options. Most public EV stations fall into two categories - Level 2 charging where you will be parked for several hours, or DC fast charging which provides more power for a quicker charge. Net, check the cost and payment options, and have a backup plan in case the station is occupied or unavailable. Finally, check that the station works for you EV. Not every public charger is compatible with every EV. Following these simple steps can help you have a better experience when locating and using the City's public EV charging network. For more information, visit driveelectricchicago.org.

Business Violation - 43rd Food & Tobacco, Inc. (200 E. 43rd St.)

The Chicago Department of Administrative Hearings held hearings on September 4, 2026 and September 15, 2026 regarding 43rd Food & Tobacco, Inc. (200 E. 43rd St.) for furnishing tobacco products, samples, or accessories to an individual who is under the age of twenty-one (21), among other violations. As a result of the hearings, judgments of $10,040 and $1,640 were entered against 43rd Food and Tobacco, Inc. Questions regarding this judgment can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Business Violation - Southern Chicago LLC (2000 S. Wabash Ave.)

The Chicago Department of Administrative Hearings held a hearing on September 15, 2026 regarding Southern Chicago LLC (2000 S. Wabash Ave.) for operating without a business license. As a result of that hearing, a judgment of $1,390 was entered against Southern Chicago LLC. Questions regarding this judgment can be directed to the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Ordinances Sponsored by Alderman Dowell in September 2026

O2026-0027579 - Amendment of Municipal Code Section 17-2-0207 requiring special use permits for single room occupancy (SRO) residential development in RT4 through RT6.5 zoning districts. This ordinance would change from permitted by right to requiring a special use permit, all SRO developments in residential district RT4 and above. By requiring a special use permit, the developments must notify the community of the proposed SRO and engage in conversations with neighbors on the characteristics and fit for this type of development.


R2026-0028815 - Establishment of Problem Landlord and Housing Court Coordination Task Force to examine and recommend improvements to response to chronic and repeat housing code violations. The City of Chicago already keeps a list of "problem landlords," yet tenants continue to face issues related to their buildings like unsafe living conditions, delayed repairs, building code violations, and retaliation by landlords. In addition, the resources available for tenants are confusing to navigate and difficult to access. To better meet the needs of Chicago residents, this resolution would create a "Problem Landlord and Housing Court Coordination Task Force" empowered to make recommendations to improve the City's response to chronic and repeat housing code violations and coordination of those matters with the Circuit Court of Cook County. Recommendations made by the task force would be sent to the full City Council for discussion and implementation.


R2026-0028877 - Call for hearing(s) on Amtrak Midwest Maintenance Facility site selection, alternatives, federal environmental review and possible effects on nearby communities and shared rail operations. Alderman Dowell has been actively supporting her aldermanic colleagues both within the community and in City Council to provide oversight of the proposed Amtrak Midwest Maintenance facility in the Bridgeport/Fuller Park neighborhood. This development has the potential to significantly impact the health and quality of life of neighborhood residents - especially those at Wentworth Gardens, TE Brown Apartments, and the congregation of Progressive Baptist Church - and needs to be fully understood before any actions are taken. Alderman Dowell has asked twice for representatives of Amtrak to meet with 3rd Ward residents, and Amtrak has yet to respond. This resolution would bring Amtrak before City Council so that aldermen and the communities they represent have the opportunity to seek clarity on the project and discuss potential mitigation or relocation efforts.

3rd Ward Star

Katie Joy Williams

Congratulations to 3rd Ward resident Katie Joy Williams, 2026-2028 Voyager Scholarship Recipient! The Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service supports students who have a passion for helping others, experience serving their communities, and can demonstrate an expansive view of what’s possible through public service.


Katie is enrolled at Wesleyan University majoring in Government and Economics, with a Minor in Civic Engagement. Her advocacy focus in Chicago is community violence intervention and structuring public safety policy to meet the needs of those most impacted. To that end, Katie served as the Chair of Public Safety for the Chicago Mayor's Youth Commission, where she had the opportunity to advise City officials on public safety policy priorities.

Important Announcements

Bank of America Chicago Marathon

On Sunday, October 11, Chicago will welcome runners and spectators from around the world for the 48th running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.


Towing and Street Closures:

  • No parking is allowed on the Chicago Marathon course. Towing of vehicles on the course will begin at 1:00 am on Sunday, October 11, 2026.
  • The Chicago Marathon will involve extensive street closures on Sunday, October 11, 2026. Neighborhood streets may be closed to traffic starting at 6:00 am. and continuing to 4:00 pm.


The Chicago Marathon Course Map, Course Flier, and Street Closure Brochure are available using this link: STREET CLOSURES - Bank of America Chicago Marathon.

South Loop Event Parking Restrictions

Parking restrictions are in place for the South Loop from Roosevelt Road to Cermak Rd. from Lake Shore Drive to Clark St. during all Chicago Bears football games and many other Soldier Field events. Wintrust Arena events have been removed from the parking restrictions. Vehicles parked in the South Loop without a valid South Loop Event Parking Pass, South Loop Event Guest Pass or Residential Permit Parking pass (for Residential Permit Parking Streets ONLY) are subject to ticketing or towing.


For a complete list of Soldier Field events, please visit www.soldierfield.com/events/all. The 3rd Ward is providing the list below as a courtesy to residents and visitors and does not assume liability for the accuracy of the monthly list of South Loop events. All Soldier Field events are subject to change, including cancellation or the scheduling of additional events. It is your responsibility to adhere to the parking restrictions in place. 

Chicago Bears vs. New York Jets

Sunday, October 4th at noon


Chicago Fire vs. Vancouver Whitecaps

Tuesday, October 6th at 7:30 pm


Chicago Fire vs. New York City

Saturday, October 10th at 1:30 pm


Chicago Fire vs. Philadelphia Union

Wednesday, October 14th at 7:30 pm


Chicago Bears vs. New England Patriots

Thursday, October 22nd at 7:15 pm


Chicago Fire vs. Orlando City

Wednesday, October 28th at 7:30 pm


Digital Readiness Lab

In this age of IA and Quantum Computing, CHICAT is committed to giving individuals the skills they need to succeed. If you are looking to boost your career prospects in the tech field, CHICAT's Digital Readiness Lab is for you! This 10-week intensive program will provide the digital foundations needed to catch up and move forward in the tech field. The Fall 2026 schedule runs from October 6 through December 17, Tuesdays to Thursdays. Young people ages 16-24 are eligible to apply at chicat.org.


Skilled Construction Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Program

St. Paul Community Development ministries offers a 12-week pre-apprenticeship training program for skilled construction trades. Once enrolled, participants will learn the entry level skills necessary to become plumbers, pipefitters, carpenters, electricians, teamsters, and more! Eligible participants must be at least 18 years old, have a valid birth certificate, high school diploma or G.E.D., Illinois Driver's License, and access to a vehicle. Register at stpaultraining.org or by calling 773-538-5120.


South Side Fireflies Starts October 17th

South Side Fireflies will be back on the Arts Block (301 E. Garfield Blvd.) starting October 17th. South Side Fireflies is a free early childhood music program that introduces toddlers and preschoolers to sound and play through the Earth, Wind & Fire songbook. Led by teaching artists Shanta Nurullah, Zahra Baker, Angel Bat Dawid and Julian Otis, Fireflies is a place for families to gather on Saturday mornings for music and fun on the Arts Block. Learn more or register here.


South Side Science Festival

The University of Chicago’s 5th annual South Side Science Festival is coming up! Join the University of Chicago for 100+ hands-on science demonstrations and brain-bending challenges led by UChicago scientists and two spectacular, sub-zero science shows featuring Dr. DiNitrogen. This free, all-ages event is co-organized by the University of Chicago Biological Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Division, Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, and Office of Civic Engagement. Sign up here.


Where: University of Chicago Campus (5801 S Ellis Ave.)

When: Saturday, October 3rd from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm


Bronzeville 5K Run/Walk

The annual Bronzeville 5K Run/Walk and Kids Dash races through the neighborhood once again this October. Join your fellow runners, fitness enthusiasts, and community supporters for a fun way to feature the Bronzeville neighborhood! Use code Ward3 to save $10 off registration fees. Visit werunsportschi.com for event details, course map, and to sign up.


Where: Lillian Armstrong Park (4433 S. St. Lawrence Ave.)

When: Sunday, October 4th at 9:00 am


University of Chicago/City Colleges of Chicago Washington Park Community Meeting

The University of Chicago and City Colleges of Chicago are partnering to develop an education, health, and science campus in Washington Park on the northwest corner of the intersection of S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and E. Garfield Boulevard that will:


  • create jobs and establish career pathways for South Side
  • residents in healthcare fields,
  • expand access to affordable higher education, and
  • foster long-term economic revitalization for the community.


Speakers will provide an overview of the project and share updates on the UChicago Medicine Pathology Lab, the Malcolm X College South Campus, and the parking structure planned for the site. RSVP to bit.ly/uc-community-meeting.


Where: Green Line Performing Arts Center (329 E. Garfield Blvd.)

When: Tuesday, October 6th from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm


NHS Financial Capability Webinar

Whether you are planning to purchase a home or simply need to improve your finances, this webinar will prepare you for financial security. Learn how to: develop a spending plan, reduce your debt, and increase your credit score.


When: Tuesday, October 6th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (link to register)


One Storytime, One Chicago

3-2-1...Blast off with the King Branch Library on a space-themed story time for young explorers. Staff will read, sing and talk about what it's like to sparkle like a star and live on our amazing planet. For children 0-5 and their caregivers.


Where: King Branch Library (3436 S. King Dr.)

When: Wednesday, October 7th from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm


SECC Southside Connection Symposium

From Chicago's proposed city charter to mobility, public spaces, and neighborhood investment, the conversation will focus on how business and residents can help shape discussions and benefit from the City's future growth. Keynote speakers include Chicago Park District General Superintendent and CEO Carlos Ramirez Rosa, Lotika Pai, BACP Chief Small Business Officer Lotika Pai, Metra Deputy Executive Director of External Affairs Janice R. Thomas, A More Just Chicago CEO Joel Hamernick, and more! Register at secc-chicago.org/symposium.


Where: David Rubenstein Forum (1201 E. 60th St.)

When: Friday, October 9th from 8:00 am to noon


2nd Police District Community Conversation

Let's make a difference in our neighborhood together! Participate in the 2nd Police District's 2027 Strategic Pan Community Conversation to help guide the district's public safety strategy for the next year. Register at www.chicagopolice.org/community-conversations.


Where: Washington Park Refractory (5531 S. Russell Drive)

When: Saturday, October 10th from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm


Back to Black: History and Fundamentals of Black Organizations

Tracing back to the 1977 founding of the Black Theatre Alliance and its 1997 transition into the African American Arts Alliance (now BACA), Chicago's Black artists have long championed visibility for overlooked talent. This Black to Black Series installment honors that legacy with a conversation on the history and future of the city's Black arts organizations, moderated by E. Faye Butler alongside founders and leaders Ron OJ Parson, Chuck Smith, and Enneressa Lanette. Celebrating over 40 Alliance organizations, the event features a panel discussion, Q&A, trivia, treats, and special surprises. Register here.


Where: Arts Incubator (301 E. Garfield Blvd.)

When: Saturday, October 10th from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm


Sound the Alarm - Fire Safety and Medical Education Program

The Chicago Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. presents an important session on how to stay safe, protect your home, and be prepared for emergencies. This program is hosted in partnership with the Black Fire Brigade.


Where: D'Estee (4525 S. King dr.)

When: Tuesday, October 13th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm


2026 Teen Fall Fest

Celebrate this year's 2026 Fall Fest initiative with Fallapalooza, a teen-focused celebration planned by young people from The Alliance 98 and Urban Male Network in partnership with the Mayor’s Office. Designed for teens ages 14–19, Fallapalooza provides a safe, fun and welcoming environment for young people to connect with peers and enjoy an evening of engaging activities, including:


  • A taco bar
  • Arts and crafts
  • Spooky activities
  • Laser tag
  • Costume competition with prizes
  • And more!


Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. Register today!


Where: Harold Washington Library (401 S. Plymouth Court, Winter Garden)

When: Friday, October 16th from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm


NHS Home Buyer Education Webinar

Learn about the home buying process such as the basics of budgeting, improving credit, understanding the closing process and down payment assistance programs. This is an in-person event broken into two four-hour sessions. Register here.


Where: 639 E. 87th St.

When: Saturdays, October 17th and 24th at 9:00 am


Windy City Housing Fair and Expo

Neighborhood Housing Services and State Farm are hosting a Housing Fair and Expo. Attend free seminars covering important topics for homeowners, homebuyers, and renters with expert information you can put to work immediately. Free fire safety giveaways for attendees!


Where: South Shore International College Prep (1955 E. 75th St.)

When: Saturday, October 17th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm


Chicago Park District Vendor Networking Event

The Chicago Park District’s Department of Purchasing invites MBE & WBE firms to learn more about doing business with us at our Vendor Networking Events. Meet and connect with internal departments to explore possible future business opportunities. Representatives from the Chicago Park District will be in attendance to meet and answer questions. Register here.


Where: South Shore Cultural Center (7059 S. South Shore Drive)

When: Wednesday, October 21st from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm


Tend: A Last Night on the Arts Lawn

Before the autumn chill sets in, join us for an evening of soulful live music under the stars, hands in the soil making seed bombs to spread around town, and free books and blankets to cozy up with. We’ll share stories and s’mores around a bonfire to welcome the season and light up the night.


Joining the evening: Planks & Pistils, Little Free Library, plus free APL blankets (while supplies last). Stop by our L1 Commons, a new community space to gather, for an open house to welcome Chicago Torture Justice Memorials Foundation to the Arts Block. Register here.


Where: UChicago Arts Lawn (337 E. Garfield Blvd.)

When: Thursday, October 22nd from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm


Community Engagement and You!

Development is happening fast in the Washington Park Community. Let's all rise and plan for our community, let your voice be heard. The Washington Park Chamber of Commerce encourages business owners, residents, homeowners, and stakeholders to participate in the community discussions you lead. Complete the survey to share your opinions on the future of Washington Park!


Where: TLG Business Office (5444 S. State St.)

When: Saturday, October 24th from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm.


Fright Fest: Teen Movie Night

Join the King Branch Library this spooky season for a movie night complete with crafts, popcorn, candy, and other treats. Teen patrons will vote on the movie title, which will be revealed the week of the event. Appropriate for teens, tweens, and their parents. Movie Rating PG-13.


Where: King Branch Library (3436 S. King Drive.)

When: Tuesday, October 27th from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm


1st Police District Community Conversation

Let's make a difference in our neighborhood together! Participate in the 1st Police District's 2027 Strategic Pan Community Conversation to help guide the district's public safety strategy for the next year. Register at www.chicagopolice.org/community-conversations.


Where: Capital One Cafe (100 S. State St.)

When: Saturday, October 28th from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm


9th Police District Community Conversation

Let's make a difference in our neighborhood together! Participate in the 9th Police District's 2027 Strategic Pan Community Conversation to help guide the district's public safety strategy for the next year. Register at www.chicagopolice.org/community-conversations.


Where: New Eclipse Church (715 W. 51st St.)

When: Saturday, October 28th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm


A Halloween Thing with Rico MJ

Celebrate all things Halloween with your favorite Michael Jackson tribute artist Rico! The event features a magic show, short film, costume contest, performance by Rico MJ and an ultimate thriller dance finale. This is an all ages show. Tickets are $20 a person, which are available for purchase here.


Where: Harold Washington Cultural Center (4701 S. King Dr.)

When: Friday, October 30th at 11:00 am and 7:00 pm

October CAPS Meetings

Attending and participating in the Chicago Police's Community Policing Program (CAPS) is one of the best ways to address crime and quality of life issues in your neighborhood. By attending CAPS meetings, you can share important information with the police that will assist them in making arrests and preventing crime as well as receive valuable information about resources that promote homeowner and community safety. Visit www.chicagopolice.org to find out what district you live in and click on each district title to learn more about what is happening in your neighborhood.


1st District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 131

No Beat Meeting in October


Beat: 132

Date: October 21st at 5:00 pm

Location: Long Grove (2001 S. Michigan Ave.)


2nd District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 211

No Beat Meeting in October


Beat: 213

No Beat Meeting in October


Beat: 221

Date: October 15th at 6:00 pm

Location: King Center (4314 S. Cottage Grove Ave.)


Beat: 224

Date: October 22nd at 6:00 pm

Location: Taylor Park (39 W. 47th St.)


Beat: 225

Date: October 14th at 6:00 pm

Location: 2nd District Community Room (5101 S. Wentworth Ave.)


Beat: 231

Date: October 21st at 6:00 pm

Location: Washington Park Field House (5531 S. King Dr.)


9th District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 915

Date: October 6th at 6:00 pm

Location: 9th District Station (3120 S. Halsted Ave.)


Beat: 925

Date: October 14th at 6:00 pm

Location: St. Gabriel Church (4522 S. Wallace)

Facebook