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May 2026 Newsletter

Relevance: 3/10
zoning_or_development_meeting_or_approval city_budget

Summary

Alderman Pat Dowell (3rd Ward) highlighted major spring construction-related public-way work and reminded residents about noise/permit/restoration rules, including how to report violations via 311. She also announced several ward-relevant infrastructure and street projects: CDOT King Dr. resurfacing (35th–55th) starting April 27 through July 31, Root St. resurfacing starting Aug. 1, and DWM sewer improvements on Pershing Rd. (Giles–Cottage Grove) starting in May with an estimated completion of Sept. 2026. Other major items included her May 21 (6:00 pm) town hall at Quinn Chapel A.M.E. Church, updates on Southbridge development progress (Phase 1C groundbreaking and Phase 3A QAP selection), and reminders about South Loop event parking restrictions and upcoming community events (Job & Resource Fair recap, Clean and Green Day, and CAPS meetings).

Email from Aldermanic Office of the Third Ward

Third Ward Newsletter

May 2026

In this Issue


Third Ward Update


Important Announcements



May CAPS

Dear John Smith,


Spring marks the beginning of construction season in Chicago, and the 3rd Ward is seeing some major infrastructure investments throughout our communities. These projects will improve safety and quality of life for City residents. However, we all know construction is inconvenient and often bothersome, but that does not mean crews can't be good neighbors. To help ensure as little impact on the neighborhood as possible, the City has a strict set of rules that oversee how and when crews can work, noise regulations, and ultimately how the area is fully restored.


The City of Chicago Noise Ordinance generally limits construction noise between the hours of 8:00 pm and 8:00 am, except for in emergencies. This not only includes work on the public way (streets, sidewalks, parkways, etc.) but on private property as well. During these restricted hours no person is allowed to generate any noise that is louder than average conversational level at a distance of 100 feet or more. Exemptions for stadiums, airports, permitted events, and within certain manufacturing districts may apply.


All construction in the public way requires a permit, whether it's performed by a private contractor or another government agency (that includes other City departments like DWM, projects undertaken by the State/County, or sister agencies like the CTA). Permit rules govern the scope of the project and require specific neighborhood access, parking, and detour plans. These permits are publicly available and my office routinely sends out alerts to residents for major infrastructure investments so that neighbors can plan accordingly.


The City also mandates that all projects must fully restore the public way to its original condition or better. That means replacing pavement, sidewalks, or parkway grass where it was disturbed due to construction. In the parkway, however, any damage to unpermitted improvements like flower beds, underground sprinklers, or fences are not subject to the restoration requirements and would need to be replaced at the owner's expense. A project is not complete until the public way is fully restored!


If an infrastructure project is violating any one of these regulations, like working outside of permitted hours, failing to properly restore the parkway, or not posting parking restrictions properly, please call 3-1-1 or submit a request using the 311 online system. You can always contact my office after entering the complaint into 311 to follow-up on the issue. The City has public way use inspectors that can investigate the complaint and get the contractor into compliance.


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

3rd Ward Town Hall Meeting - May 21st at 6:00 pm

Alderman Dowell is hosting her next town hall meeting on Thursday, May 21st at 6:00 pm at Quinn Chapel A.M.E. Church (2401 S. Wabash Ave.). At the meeting, residents will hear from developers about potential projects in the 3rd Ward, receive a public safety update, meet the new 3rd Ward Superintendent Nick Napier, and hear from other special guests. For more information call 773-373-9273 or email [email protected].

Residents Get Connected at 3rd/4th/5th Ward Job and Resource Fair

The combined 3rd, 4th, and 5th Ward Job and Resource Fair on April 18th was a smashing success! Thank you to Alderman Dowell's City Council colleagues Lamont Robinson (4th), and Desmon Yancy (5th) for cohosting this important event for our shared communities. At the event, residents were able meet directly with employers for open positions, take advantage of free document shredding, electronic recycling, drug takeback, unclaimed property searches, Illinois Tollway services, and access a host of other services provided by State, County and City partners.


Huge thank you to 3rd Ward Public Service Office staff Allyson, Lucy, and Yvonne for coordinating the event. And thank you to State Sen. Mattie Hunter (3rd), State Rep. Kim Du Buclet (5th), State Rep. Kam Buckner (26th), Commissioner Michael Scott (2nd), the Chicago Police Department, People's Gas, Illinois Tollway, Illinois Secretary of State, Cook County Sheriff, Chicago Fire Department, Illinois State Treasurer, Chicago Public Library, Cook County Assessor, Help at Home, Chicago Housing Authority, Serenity Home Health Care, Midway Moving and Storage, CEDA, IHDA, Law Center for Better Housing, Elder Law, and CIC for participating.

Alderman Dowell Hosts Property After Death Workshop

Alderman Dowell and Cook County Commissioner Michael Scott (2nd) welcomed Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon on April 11th to host a workshop for residents to lean about how to secure their property after death. At the event, the Clerk's staff gave a short presentation on how people can register their properties with the County in order to prevent theft, and fraud, while also lowering the possibility a property will go into probate court. Staff then answered questions from residents to help attendees understand what happens to your property after death, the role of the Cook County Clerk, and where to find other resources that may be of help upon the death of a loved one.

Clean and Green Day A Success in the 3rd Ward

The City hosted another successful Clean and Green Day on April 18th. Thank you to all the residents and community groups who came together to beautify the community this spring. Local Clean and Green events were hosted at public parks, schools, block cleanups, and community gardens. Every bit helps! Thank you to all those that participated, including but not limited to: South Loop Elementary School, the 46th and Vincennes Block Club, Park 540, and Hadiya Pendleton Park. Particular shout out to the South Loop Neighbors (SLN) organization who gathered over 70 residents to clean up the area from Van Buren to 18th St. along State, Wabash, and Michigan. This effort was led by SLN President Jim Wales and Adrienne Johnson of the 1st District Council. And thank you to Nick Napier, 3rd Ward Superintendent, for coordinating the Streets and Sanitation work for this great day.


Clean and Green Day isn't the only opportunity to beautify our neighborhoods. We all should be working every day to keep our community clean! Everyone enjoys, and deserves, to live in a clean, safe community. So let's reach that goal together!

Alderman Dowell Joins the 2nd District Council for Gunshot Wound Workshop

The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability's (CCPSA) 2nd District Council held a Basic Gunshot Wound and First Response workshop taught by the Ujimaa Medics to provide residents with critical information on how to help a gunshot victim. This was an enlightening session! Kudos to District Council members Alex Perez, Ephraim Lee, and Marquinn McDonald for keeping our community informed. For more information about the CCPSA, visit ccpsa.chicago.gov/.

Alderman Dowell Featured as Part of Crain's Power Breakfast

Alderman Dowell was honored to be a featured panelist for Crain's Chicago Power Breakfast on April 9th to discuss the construction of the new Chicago Fire Stadium at "The 78." Alderman Dowell provided insight into how the City manages major development opportunities like "The 78" and how to best partner with private industry to achieve big wins for the City as a whole. Chicago Fire staff was on hand to share their plans for the new stadium, and representatives of the development team from Related Midwest offered their insights into spearheading major projects from concept to completion.


The new Chicago Fire stadium is the first phase of the larger "The 78" development, serving as an anchor for the construction of additional residential, retail, office, entertainment, and outdoor recreational spaces in this long vacant 62-acre riverfront site.

Southbridge Moves Forward with Groundbreaking of Phase 1C, Phase 3A Wins Resources from QAP

Alderman Dowell celebrated a monumental milestone at 23rd St. and State St. with the groundbreaking of Southbridge Phase 1C! The latest building in the vibrant Southbridge community will feature 80 modern units and 1,500 sq. ft. of retail near transit, perfectly blending the elements that make an urban community truly thrive. Construction for 1C is expected to finish in June 2027. 


Located at 2305 S. State St. the Phase 1C will be a 12-story building, with a mix of studios up to two-bedrooms. 44 units are designated as affordable to households earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income, and 29 units will be reserved for Chicago Housing Authority households with a right of return. Phase 1C was supported by $11.9 million in tax increment financing approved by the City Council in July 2025 and the CHA contributed $10 million to the project.


In addition, Southbridge Phase 3A has been selected for assistance as part of the City's 2025 Qualified Allocation Plan (QAP). Released every two years, the QAP sets the rules for accessing City assistance and federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), a crucial funding source for affordable housing development. LIHTC operates as a public-private partnership, where investors provide equity for low-income rental properties in exchange for a federal tax credit over several decades. 


Phase 3A of the Southbridge project will consist of 80 new-construction units planned for 2400 S. State St. In total, Southbridge will consist of approximately 877 residential units across income levels, approximately 65,000 square feet of retail, and multiple recreational areas. For more information about the project, visit southbridgechicago.com.

Kenwood School of Ballet Moves to the 3rd Ward

Alderman Dowell is proud to welcome the Kenwood School of Ballet to the 3rd Ward! The ballet secured a long-term lease at 123 E. 43rd St. and will be bringing their exceptional programming to the Bronzeville neighborhood.


Kenwood School of Ballet's mission is to cultivate exceptional individuals and leaders through the art of dance and movement. They are dedicated to fostering creativity, discipline, and self-expression in a supportive and inspiring environment. It is their mission to create skilled dancers as well as confident, compassionate, and resilient human beings. For more information and to register for classes, visit kenwooddance.org.

Alderman Dowell Celebrates Bronzeville Trail Day

Bronzeville Trail Day is a day to bring awareness and build support for the Bronzeville Trail, a visionary health and recreational effort to reimagine the use of the abandoned Kenwood rail line. Thank you to John, Walter, David and Robert and the entire Board of Directors of the Bronzeville Trail Task Force for their continued dedication and work! To learn more about the Bronzeville Trail and to participate in future events. please visit www.bronzevilletrail.org.

Momentum Coffee Moves to 1900 S. State St.

Congratulations to Tracy Powell and Nikki Bravo of Momentum Coffee for their move to 1900 S. State St. Momentum Coffee has been a fixture of the South Loop community for years and the move to the corner of 19th, Archer and State Streets opens up even more possibilities for this neighborhood favorite. Swing by for a cup, for their home roasted beans, or to take advantage of their coworking space!

PDNA Hosts Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Alderman Dowell was happy to attend the Prairie District Neighborhood Association's annual Easter Egg Hunt. Celebrating its 19th year, this undoubtedly must be one of the largest, and most fun Easter events in the entire City! Thank you to Tina Feldstein and the team of Prairie District Neighborhood Association volunteers for once again putting on this wonderful event for neighborhood families. Hundreds of children and their families gathered in the beautiful Women's Park and Gardens (1801 S. Indiana Ave.) to scoop up the thousands of Easter eggs, eat great food, listen to music, and share in the holiday merriment. A little rain didn't damper the community spirit!


Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Resurfacing

The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) is in the process of resurfacing inner and outer King Dr. from 35th St. to 55th St. to improve road conditions, traffic safety, and overall neighborhood infrastructure. Construction began on Monday, April 27th.


WHAT TO EXPECT

• ADA sidewalk improvements

• Curb and gutter removal and replacement as needed

• Milling the existing asphalt pavement

• Asphalt paving 

• Landscaping

• Pavement marking


During construction, temporary “No Parking” signs will be installed as required for each activity listed above. These temporary signs will restrict parking during working hours, while adhering to rush hour restrictions, for the completion of the work. All work on this corridor is scheduled to be completed by July 31, 2026 (weather permitting). Questions? Please call the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Root St. Resurfacing

The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) be resurfacing Root St. from LaSalle St. to State St. to improve road conditions, traffic safety, and overall neighborhood infrastructure. Construction is estimated to start on August 1, 2026.


WHAT TO EXPECT

• ADA sidewalk improvements

• Curb and gutter removal and replacement as needed

• Milling the existing asphalt pavement

• Asphalt paving 

• Landscaping

• Pavement marking


During construction, temporary “No Parking” signs will be installed as required for each activity listed above. These temporary signs will restrict parking during working hours, while adhering to rush hour restrictions, for the completion of the work. Questions? Please call the 3rd Ward Public Service Office at 773-373-9273.

Pershing Rd. from Giles Ave. to Cottage Grove Ave. - Sewer Improvement Project

Starting in May, the Department of Water Management's private contractor, Reliable Contracting and Equipment Company, will begin installing 3,800 feet of new sewer in your neighborhood along Pershing Rd. from Giles Ave. to Cottage Grove Ave. Due to the nature of the work and limited space, Pershing Rd. will be reduced to one lane of traffic in each direction through the areas of work where construction is ongoing. The contractor is planning to begin work at Giles Ave. and move their way east to Cottage Grove Ave.


Temporary "No Parking" signs will be posted prior to the start of construction during the mobilization phase. Street parking will still be available along Pershing Rd. outside of the work zones. DWM will try and preserve as much parking as possible. Use of bike lanes in the work area will also be restricted.


When work is being performed in the street, DWM may close areas adjacent to the work zone to traffic for safety reasons. Residents and businesses will always be able to reach their properties on foot. When vehicular access to your property may be restricted, individuals will be notified a minimum of 24 hours in advance. Outside of working hours, the areas adjacent to the work zone may be left open for local traffic only.


Construction always involves inconvenience and noise. DWM will do everything possible to maintain neighbors' quality of life throughout the project and conduct themselves as good and thoughtful neighbors during their presence on the street. The estimated completion date is September 2026.


Parkway Maintenance

Before any project, DWM takes photographs of the street and surrounding properties. These photographs help them to restore the area to its preconstruction state. However, DWM does not assume responsibility for damage to privately installed parkway improvements, including sprinkler systems, fences, flower beds and shrubbery. New sewer construction is not complete until all incidental impacts (damaged sidewalks, parkways, curbs, streets) have been restored. If you have questions or concerns about the project, call:


  • 24-Hour Service and Information Line: 311
  • 3rd Ward Office - 773-373-9273
  • DWM Office of Public Affairs - 312-744-6635

Alderman Dowell Sponsors Legislation in City Council to Extend Date for Tip Credit, Require Plumbing Backflow, CPD Records Management Modernization, and More

During the April City Council meeting, Alderman Dowell cosponsored a host of ordinances to improve City operations and how it regulates businesses citywide. These include:


O2026-0024918 - To extend the dates for the phase out of the tipped wage credit. This ordinance delays the phaseout of the tipped wage credit for occupations receiving gratuities by two years. Industries like local restaurants are under significant financial pressure, causing closures, job losses, and a reduction in employee hours. By delaying the elimination of the tip credit, restaurants and similar industries can ensure full employment, while still paying their employees the legally guaranteed minimum wage.


R2026-0024924 - Call for hearing(s) on the City's progress implementing efficiencies and other programmatic reforms. This resolution calls on City Council to convene a subject matter hearing regarding the City’s progress towards implementing the various reforms identified in the Ernst & Young Financial and Strategic Reform Options Report. The City commissioned the Ernst & Young report to help identify strategies to close the budget gap, and deliver services to residents more efficiently. A hearing on this topic would ensure that Chicago is doing everything it can to implement these reforms and protect taxpayers' hard earned dollars.


O2026-0024920 - To require all plumbing systems erected in City of Chicago to include backflow mitigation valve. This ordinance requires the plumbing system for all newly erected structures in the City to include a “backflow mitigation valve” – an automatic mechanical device that prevents the reverse flow of sewage, stormwater, or potable water from a public sewer or water main. With the recent increase in flooding events across Chicago, this ordinance would help prevent flood damage in new buildings by requiring backflow mitigation valves.


R2026-0024955 - Call for hearing(s) on the procurement of a new CPD records management system and new acoustic gunshot technology system. This resolution calls on the City Council to hold a hearing on the implementation of a new Chicago Police Department Records Management System and gunshot detection technology. These resources are critical for public safety. CPD utilizes an outdated records management system that delays proper police operations. And after the contract with Shotspotter was canceled, the administration made a commitment to procuring a new gunshot detection system. This has yet to occur. This technology can save lives and should be available to protect all Chicagoans.


R2026-0024919 - Expression of support for passage of Illinois HB2929 that amends The Substance Use Disorder Act. This resolution urges the Illinois General Assembly to pass HB 2929, which authorizes and funds “Overdose Prevention Sites”.

Important Announcements

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 Fire vs. FC Cincinnati

Saturday, May 2nd at 7:30 pm


Chicago Fire vs. New York Red Bulls

Saturday, May 9th at 1:30 pm


Bruno Mars - The Romantic Tour

Saturday, May 16th and Sunday, May 17th at 7:30 pm


Chicago Fire vs. Toronto FC

Saturday, May 23rd at 7:30 pm


The Deadline to Apply for Property Tax Savings is Friday, May 15

When you claim exemptions on your home, you unlock savings that help lower your property tax bill. Applying online is easy and allows certain exemptions to roll over year-over-year.


You may be eligible for exemptions. Browse available exemptions and apply online today. The most common exemptions are: Homeowner Exemption, Senior Exemption, "Senior Freeze" Exemption,

Persons with Disabilities, and Veterans with Disabilities. If you already applied, you can check the status following these three steps. 


1. Click here, enter your PIN or address. 

2. Select "2025" in the "tax year" dropdown field before clicking "search."

3. Click on the "Exemption Status" tab in the sidebar menu. 


For more information on how properties are assessed and potential property tax exemptions, visit www.cookcountyassessoril.gov.


Changes to SNAP Benefits Start May 1st

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduced new SNAP work requirements that go into effect May 1st. This is on top of the new requirements enacted on February 1st that limited SNAP benefits for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD), and for formerly eligible groups including refugees and asylum seekers.


If you are an able-bodied adult without dependents that relies on SNAP, do not lose your benefits!


Work reporting requirements what’s changed? Who is impacted?

• The age cutoff for work requirements has moved from 55 to 65.

• Parents with children ages 14- 18 must meet work requirements now. Previously, parents with children under 18 were exempt.

• Homeless individuals, youth aging out of foster care, and veterans are no longer exempt from work requirements


Who are still exempt from work requirements

People who are medically certified as physically or mentally unable to work

Caregivers for a child under age 14 or an incapacitated person

A regular participant in a drug addiction or alcoholic treatment and rehabilitation program

Some Native Americans


Immigrant eligibility

No longer eligible

• Refugees

• Asylees

• Victims of human trafficking

• Certain victims of violence and torture


Still eligible

• Lawful Permanent Residents (green card holders) who have been in the US for at least 5 years (or are exempt from the 5-year wait period)

• Cuban and Haitian entrants


If you are a SNAP recipient, please use the State screening tool to confirm eligibility bit.ly/4sUxnVt. To learn more about the new work requirements, visit bit.ly/3QskfJD. Additional resources are available at Job Ready IL and Serve Illinois.


Soldier Field 10 miler

The Soldier Field 10 Miler is on Saturday, May 23, 2026. The yearly event honors the courageous service members who sacrificed everything for our freedom. The day will begin with a heartfelt playing of taps and a military salute, setting a reflective tone for the event. The course runs along the lakefront (map here).


Night Nation Run

The Night Nation Run is the World’s 1st Running Music Festival an ultimate blend of a Music Festival and a Fun Run. Experience a music filled course with Live DJs, Light Shows, Bubble Zones, Neon and Black Lights. Cross the finish line into an Epic Main Stage After Party featuring Top Headliner DJs. Saturday, The event is scheduled for May 30th at 6:00 pm. Course map here.


Neighborhood Opportunity Fund Applications Open

This is a reminder that the Neighborhood Opportunity Fund (NOF) application remains open and is accepting applications on a rolling basis (continuously throughout the year)!


Submitted applications will be reviewed on a quarterly basis, and the next deadline is at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, May 15th (Applications submitted after May 15 will be reviewed the following quarter.) Find the list of deadlines here.


The NOF is an innovative program that invests downtown development fees in catalytic commercial corridor investments on the South, West and Southwest Side. Designed to stimulate business activity, strengthen amenities, and deliver essential services, NOF grants up $250,000 may be redeemed by successful applicants through reimbursements or construction escrows.


Theses application rounds include the following improvements for grantees:

• Additional technical assistance for up to 20% of the grant amount to cover services provided by pre-selected project managers and architects.

• Grant coverage up to 75% of project costs, up from 50%.

• Loan Loss Reserve funding from pre-selected Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs)


For more information on the program, informational webinars, and in-person community meetings, please visit https://chicago.gov/nof or contact [email protected].


47th/State TIF District Opens May 1st

The Department of Planning and Development (DPD) and SomerCor will roll out the Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) grant program for applications in the following TIF district in May.


  • 47th/State


Applications open: 9 a.m. Friday, May 1st

Applications close: 5 p.m. Saturday, May 30th

 

The SBIF program uses revenue from TIF districts to help owners of commercial and industrial properties to repair or remodel their facilities for their own business or on behalf of tenants. Tenant businesses are also eligible to apply on their own. Please note that residential projects are not eligible for the SBIF program, and residential developers should not apply.


Program participants can receive grants for 30 to 90 percent of project costs, with a maximum grant of $150,000 for commercial properties and $250,000 for industrial properties. The grants are administered by SomerCor on the City's behalf and do not have to be repaid. Those interested in applying can verify that their property is located in an eligible district by using the SBIF Locator Map tool.


Summer Band Camp

Intonation Music is hosting a FREE summer band camp from June 22nd through July 31st, weekdays, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Session A for children 3rd -5th grade will be at Kennicott Park (4434 S. Lake Park Ave.). Session B for children 6th-12th grade will be at Intonation HQ (3633 S. State St.). If your camper is interested in music, fun field trips and performances, go to www.intonationmusic.org.


ComEd Construct Youth Academy Summer Program

The CONSTRUCT Youth Academy is a paid, pre-career exposure program designed to build awareness of careers in the utility and energy sector. The program introduces students to entry level roles and career opportunities within the industry. The curriculum focuses on increasing students’ knowledge, awareness, and workforce readiness across a variety of roles, with the goal of strengthening pathways into ComEd adult workforce programs and long term career opportunities. Register for this program here.

 

Program Details

•    Program Length: 2 weeks each month Cohort

•    Schedule: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Monday–Friday)

•    Stipend: $400 upon successful completion

•    Transportation: On ComEd field days, students will be transported as a group from the partner agency location to ComEd

•    Students should apply to the location most convenient for daily morning drop-off.

 

Program Dates & Locations

June Cohort | June 15–26

•    South Side YMCA , 6330 S. Stony Island Ave, Chicago, IL

•    Goodwill, 815 W. 63rd Street, Chicago, IL

 

July Cohort | July 13–24

•    Kelly Hall YMCA, 824 N. Hamlin Ave, Chicago, IL


3rd Annual Dear Mama Pop Up Shop

Mt. Pisgah Women's Ministry is hosting a pop up shop featuring multiple food truck and over 20 vendors on site. All are welcome, entry is free.


Where: Mt. Pisgah MBC Social Hall (4622 S. King Dr.)

When: Saturday, May 2nd from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm


Veterans Town Hall and Resource Fair

Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson is hosting a town hall where he will discuss important updates, share future plans, and hear your valuable feedback. This is a great opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and work together toward our shared goals. Register here.


Where: Major Charles L. Hunt VFW Hall (344 W. 119th St.)

When: Tuesday May 5th from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm


NHS Financial Literacy 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, May 5th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (link to register)


2026 Workplace Law Changes: What You Need to Know

Stay ahead of the latest updates impacting your business. Join the Near South Planning Board for an interactive roundtable discussion on key 2026 changes in employment law, workplace regulations, and wages. RSVP here.


Where: Cafe Bionda (1924 S. State St.)

When: Wednesday, May 6th from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm (networking happy hour from 5:00 pm to 6:00 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 a virtual eight-hour course delivered in four 2-hour sessions. Register here.


When: Wednesdays, May 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th at 6:00 pm


Dog Park Cleanups

South Loop Dog PAC will be coordinating morning cleanups at the South Loop Dog Parks in May. Link for a signup form and further information will be sent out before the events. More info? Shoot us an email at [email protected]


Where: Fred Anderson Park (1629 S. Wabash Ave.)

When: Saturday, May 9th (small dog area), Saturday, May 16th (big dog area), Saturday, May 23rd (Grant Bark Park.


5th Annual Airport Small Business Summit and Job Fair

Join the Chicago Department of Aviation for the 5th Annual Airport Small Business Summit and Job Fair. The Small Business Summit will welcome small business owners to participate in engaging workshops and network with fellow vendors. From noon to 4p.m., the Job Fair will connect attendees directly with hiring businesses and organizations for on-the-spot hiring alongside skill-building sessions. Register at www.flychicago.com/summitandjobfair/.


Where: UIC Forum (1213 S. Halsted St.)

When: Tuesday, May 12th from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm


PBC Connection Session 2026

The Public Building Commission (PBC) is hosting its annual Connection Session. The event will provide

attendees with information regarding PBC’s upcoming opportunities and encourage industry networking with contractors, professional service providers, Assist Agencies, and MBE/WBE firms, subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers. PBC will also share information regarding its Student Hiring Initiative. Additional information will be made available regarding programming updates and registration, prior to the Connection Session. Register at tinyurl.com/PBCCS2026.


Where: Malcolm X College (1900 W. Jackson Blvd.)

When: Thursday, May 14th from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm


Spring Lounge: Celebrating Lorraine Hansberry

Celebrate Lorraine Hansberry’s birthday at Arts + Public Life! We’re marking the occasion with activities across the Arts Block to honor the renowned author and playwright who grew up in the Washington Park Subdivision. Start your visit with birthday cake and a screening of A Raisin in the Sun (1961) in the Cultural Stewardship Reading Room. Take home a free book by Lorraine Hansberry—available while supplies last—and browse books, magazines, and archival materials on South Side arts, culture and history. Register here.


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

When: Tuesday, May 19th from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm


BLKNEWS: Terms & Conditions | Film Screening + Activations

Arts + Public Life welcomes you to a night of high-frequency culture centered around the screening of Kahlil Joseph’s BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions. This event transforms the cinematic experience into a living environment where film and hip-hop culture collide. Following a small opening reception and the film screening, the evening continues with a series of activations designed to mirror the energy from the screen.


Expect a night of movement and making featuring a live DJ set and art-making stations alongside space for drinks, small bites and discussion. Stay tuned as we announce specific activation details and the lineup of featured artists joining us for this takeover. Register here.


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

When: Friday, May 22nd from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm

May 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

Date: May 20th at 5:00 pm

Location: Awaken Church (1829 S. State St.)


Beat: 133

Date: May 20th at 6:00 pm

Location: the Hub (2901 S. King Dr.)


2nd District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 211

Date: May 11th at 6:00 pm

Location: Illinois College of Optometry (3241 S. Michigan Ave.)


Beat: 213

Date: May 26th at 6:00 pm

Location: St. Elizabeth Church (4058 S. Michigan Ave.)


Beat: 221

Date: May 19th at 6:00 pm

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


Beat: 224

Date: May 21st at 6:00 pm

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


Beat: 225

Date: May 13th at 6:00 pm

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


Beat: 231

Date: May 14th at 6:00 pm

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


9th District CAPS Meetings

Beat: 915

Date: May 12th at 6:00 pm

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


Beat: 925

Date: May 20th at 6:00 pm

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

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