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The 2nd Ward Newsletter for September 14, 2026
In This Edition:
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Remembering 9/11 at Lake Shore Park
This past Friday was the 25th anniversary of the horrific terrorist attacks that took nearly 3,000 innocent lives in New York City, at the Pentagon, and aboard Flight 93. For those who missed it, please click here for a special edition of my newsletter that commemorates this tragic day and honors the brave men and women who sacrificed everything to help in the search for those who perished.
To remember those 2,983 Americans taken from us too soon, the Lake Shore Park Advisory Council placed American flags in Lake Shore Park, and an anonymous community member generously donated bouquets to place at the base of each flag. Thank you to the Lake Shore Park Advisory Council, the Chicago Park District, and our community for your work to keep the memory of this tragedy alive and for us to truly embody the phrase: "Never forget."
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To ensure the next generation remembers this tragedy, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation has a moving exhibit, Steel Across America, which will transport an authentic steel beam from the World Trade Center to communities and schools across the United States, providing educational opportunities for those too young to remember.
I was honored to stand by these beams at the 911 Memorial at Navy Pier last Friday. If any school wishes to have this exhibit, contact 773-269-1073.
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Lincoln Park Shredding and Electronic Recycling Event: Sunday, September 20
Join me at my final 2nd Ward Document Shredding and Electronic Recycling Event of Fall 2026 on Sunday, September 20, from 9 am to 12 pm at 2121 N Clybourn. Before arriving, please place your materials in paper bags or boxes/containers that will be returned to you; remove all paper clips and binder clips from the documents; remove all other items from your vehicle to avoid confusion; and please bring a maximum of three grocery bags of documents for on-site shredding.
Please enter the parking lot from Clybourn Ave, follow staff directions in regard to pulling your vehicle forward to prevent backup in the line, stay in your vehicle so staff may remove your shredding items, and follow staff directions to exit. Walk-ups are welcome!
Thank you to Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, 2nd Ward Committeeman Tim Egan, Chicago Furniture Bank, and SPF Chicago for co-hosting this event.
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St. Josaphat JosaFEST 2026: September 19-20
 Join St. Josaphat for its annual parish festival, JosaFEST 2026, September 19-20.
JosaFEST 2026 will feature live music, delicious food, refreshing drinks, games, and fun for the entire family. Learn more about St. Josephat School and don't forget about JosaFEST's famous cake walk! My office will have a table at the festival, so please stop by and say hello!
Learn more and purchase tickets here.
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Smart Streets Enforcement
Please be aware that the Department of Finance is implementing Smart Street Enforcement for Street Cleaning tickets in the 2nd Ward. While members of the Department of Finance will continue to enforce parking restrictions for street sweeping, tickets will now be sent via mail rather than paper being placed on the vehicle itself.
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Northwestern Medicine Construction Website
For those who live in Streeterville near the Northwestern Medicine site bounded by N Fairbanks Ct, E Huron St, N McClurg Ct, and E Erie St, or those who are just interested in the latest construction updates, the project team is maintaining a regularly updated construction information website. The project, which has not yet received approvals beyond site preparation, is currently in a subterranean demolition phase. Multiple levels of blast-proof basement were left behind by the former Lakeside Veterans Affairs structure. Because they were built to withstand bomb blasts, the current demolition phase is quite disruptive. Vibration and dust monitors are located in and around the site, and, if certain thresholds were to be crossed in either category, work is brought to a halt until the issue is resolved. Please click here to visit the website.
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2nd Ward Shred Event in Streeterville This Past Weekend
 We had another successful shred event this past Sunday. Thank you to everyone who attended our Streeterville Shred Event at the Northwestern University parking lot. We had a great turnout, and it was great to speak with constituents and hear their concerns. I want to thank our partners: Northwestern University, R4 Services, Newtech E-Scrap Recycling, and the Cook County Sheriff's Office.
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Correction
Citing unnamed sources, a published statement in Inside Publications’ September 9th Skyline erroneously stated that the planned development approved for the northeast corner of W North Ave and N Wells St also includes entitlements for a future high-rise on the Piper's Alley site. This is false. No such entitlements have been granted, and no plans exist for a high-rise on the Piper's Alley site in the future.
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Street Sweeping
The Department of Streets and Sanitation continues to operate its regular street sweeping schedule. Residents can view street sweepers in real time using the Sweeper Tracker online tool.
"Sweep Around Us" — a third-party email reminder service used for street sweeping alerts — has rebranded as "We The Sweeple." Click here for more information.
Click here to find the Street Sweeping section of my website. An interactive map of all seven street-sweeping sections is included, along with the full schedule of 2026 sweeping dates. Residents are encouraged to mark their calendars for respective sweeping dates in the event that they have visitors or are out of town.
Scheduled for cleaning on Tuesday, September 15: Section 3 (Purple), Section 4 (Red), Section 5 (Yellow)
Scheduled for cleaning on Wednesday, September 16: Section 4 (Red), Section 5 (Yellow), Section 6 (Green)
Scheduled for cleaning on Thursday, September 17: Section 6 (Green)
Scheduled for cleaning on Friday, September 18: Section 7 (Brown)
Scheduled for cleaning on Monday, September 21: Section 7 (Brown)
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Coffee with the Commander: Thursday, September 17
 Join the 18th District Commander and the CAPS team for coffee and conversation this Thursday, September 17, at 10:00 am, at Starbucks, located at 1230 W Scott St. This is an excellent opportunity to meet the officers who patrol your neighborhood and discuss your concerns or input with the commander.
If you have any questions, contact the 18th District CAPS Office at 312-742-5778.
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18th Police District Council Meeting: Tuesday, September 22
Join the 18th Police District Council for its monthly meeting on Tuesday, September 22, at 12:30 pm at the 18th Police District Station, located at 1160 N Larrabee St. Street Parking is available in the adjacent parking lot south of the station. Please park in visitor spots only.
Commander Christopher Bielfeldt (or his representative) and the 18th District CAPS team will be in attendance to discuss public safety matters.
Click here to RSVP in person or here for the Zoom option.
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18th District CompStat Report
The Computer Statistics report (CompStat) is a weekly report of incidents that occurred in the respective police district. Each district compiles a statistical summary of the week's crime complaints, arrests, and data analysis.
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Recent Carjacking Arrests:
Community Alerts:
Additional High-Profile Arrests:
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Updated 2026 Chicago Police CAPS Meeting Schedule
The Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS) Beat community meetings are a key part of the Chicago Police Department's strategy of partnerships and problem-solving. These meetings are held in person, with the option to participate remotely, and are an excellent way to communicate with the officers who patrol your beat and to engage with and meet your neighbors.
The entirety of the 2nd Ward falls inside the 18th District. Click here to find which beat you reside in. You may also call 312-742-5778 or email [email protected] for more information about the 18th District CAPS office.
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General 2nd Ward Infrastructure Updates
Construction season continues as crews are busy resurfacing streets and alleys, building pedestrian safety improvements, and replacing street lighting. Here are some highlights of ongoing or upcoming infrastructure improvements in our ward. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. My office always stands ready to answer questions about these or any other infrastructure projects in our ward and to receive your suggestions for future consideration.
- Inner Lake Shore Drive resurfacing from E Lake Shore Dr to Ohio
Status: Complete
- Will include some pedestrian safety improvements for crossing perpendicular east-west streets
- Southport/Belden intersection reconstruction
Status: Complete
- Raised intersection installed to calm traffic and increase pedestrian visibility in all directions.
- Curb bump-outs will also be added to shorten pedestrian distance when crossing in all directions.
- Aesthetic improvements are included (protective bollards and stamped concrete accents).
- Clover Playlot Improvements*
(*For the safety of parkgoers, the park is closed while major renovations take place)
- Status: Paver work commenced this week and expected to last two weeks. Entire project expected to be complete by early October 2026.
- Removal of dead trees
- Installation of artificial turf in areas prone to flooding
- Refreshed decorative hardscaping along the existing walking path (new pavers and decomposed granite finishes).
- Construction of a brand-new Gaga Ball court
- Pearson St parkway improvements (completed)
- Restoration of existing pavers and sidewalk replacement in select areas adjacent to Seneca Park
- Installation of brand-new paver-style stamped concrete along south parkway adjacent to Lake Shore Park (replacing existing sandstone gravel)
- Southport Ave resurfacing from Webster to Fullerton
- Status: Crew was onsite today finishing a portion that was not finished after a previous equipment breakdown
- Chestnut St complete lighting replacement from Mies van der Rohe to Lake Shore Dr
- Status: CDOT has announced another delay in the installation of the custom anchor rods for this project, which will delay concrete restoration another week. Work is expected to begin the week of September 14. I find this additional delay to be extremely frustrating and am working to hold those responsible accountable. The City approved the new foundations 4 weeks ago.
- The delay in restoration was due to the contractor's identification of vaults underneath several locations that required a special spread footing foundation before concrete could be repoured. While the city approved the new foundation three weeks ago, the custom anchor rods needed for the foundation were delayed. They have now arrived and are expected to be installed shortly, with final concrete to be poured soon thereafter.
- State Pkwy resurfacing from Scott to Schiller
Status: Project start is pending on spot curb and gutter replacement on the 1300 block of State Pkwy
- Dickens Avenue resurfacing from Clifton to Racine
Status: Requested early in 2026 but on hold while fiber optics (Lumen) project is completed
- If still necessary after fiber optics restoration, will be done in 2027
- Huron St resurfacing from St. Clair to Fairbanks
Status: Scheduled to be milled in the next 1-2 weeks
- E. Chicago sidewalk replacement (completed)
- Sidewalk alongside Chicago Avenue pumping station, which was not draining, has been replaced and looks great
- Wells St replacement of lighting fixtures on existing poles from Division to North Ave (completed)
- Magnolia Ave resurfacing from Webster to Belden (completed)
- Wabash Ave resurfacing from Huron to Superior (completed)
- State Pkwy resurfacing from Schiller to Burton (completed)
- McClurg Ct resurfacing from Ohio to Ontario (completed)
- Delaware Pl resurfacing from Clark to LaSalle (completed)
- Blackhawk St resurfacing from Sedgwick to Larrabee (completed)
- Magnolia/Belden detached pedestrian bump-outs (completed)
- Schiller between LaSalle and Clark: center line striping (completed)
- Alley apron and sidewalk replacement on North Ave from LaSalle to the western alley (completed)
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Update on the Division Street Streetscape
Phase 1 work is underway (center lane work).
These streetscape improvements have been designed by the Chicago Department of Transportation in close cooperation with community representatives and my team. Highlights include:
• Roadway geometry improvements
• Full-width roadway resurfacing
• New wider paver sidewalks
• New curb and gutter
• New street lighting
• ADA ramps and crosswalks
• New pavement markings and signs
• Tree plantings and landscaping
• Site furnishings
Throughout construction, Division Street will remain open to motorists and pedestrians, and access to businesses and residences will be maintained. During the final stage of construction, westbound traffic will be temporarily detoured. Please watch out for parking restrictions for equipment staging on nearby streets.
The outbound CTA 36/Broadway bus route will be detoured during specific stages of construction. The inbound CTA 36/Broadway bus route will not be affected. Individual bus stops may be temporarily closed or relocated to accommodate construction. For more information, please call the CTA information hotline at 773-836-7000.
Hardscape work is expected to be completed by Thanksgiving, with some landscaping work happening in the spring. Construction review meetings will be held weekly by CDOT when construction is underway. These meetings are open to the public and provide residents and businesses with the opportunity to ask questions and coordinate concerns regarding construction.
For additional information, please call the Department of Transportation at (312) 744-5900 or visit the project website here.
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Volunteers Needed for Oktoberfest in Old Town
 The Old Town Merchants and Residents Association (OTMRA) is seeking volunteers for the beer and brat booth at this weekend's Oktoberfest in Old Town.
This is a great way to spend a few hours and meet new people at the center of the Oktoberfest action.
Sign up for a slot here.
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Near North Library Temporarily Closed: Through September 26
 Please be advised that the Near North Library branch, located at 310 W Division St, will be temporarily closed from September 7 to September 26 for building maintenance. Book Drop will remain closed until its reopening, and holds for this location will be rerouted to the Lincoln Park Branch, located at 1150 W Fullerton, for pickup.
Click here to find your closest Chicago Public Library branch.
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2nd Ward Flu Clinic: Monday, September 28
 Have you received your flu shot for this year? Come join Jewel-Osco and me as we invite you to attend the 2nd Ward Flu Clinic on Monday, September 28, at Lake Shore Park. This event will last from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm, and participants can get vaccines for the flu, COVID-19, shingles, RSV, pneumonia, TDAP, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, MMR, and HPV.
Click here to book a free appointment to receive a vaccine.
Thank you to Jewel-Osco, the Lake Shore Park Advisory Council, and the Chicago Park District for co-sponsoring this event to bring life-saving vaccines to the residents of the 2nd Ward.
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C3 Fall Conservation Corps Training
 The Chicago Conservation Corps (C3) collaborates with partners across the city to inspire and fund lasting change through grassroots community organization and climate action. C3 is planning and beginning info sessions for its Fall 2026 Sustainability Leadership Training, which is virtual and focused on the food systems in Chicagoland.
Classes are pay-what-you-can (including $0) and are weekly for 8 weeks. You can learn more and register here.
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Little Sisters of the Poor Chez Ste Marie Fundraiser: Thursday, September 17
 Join the Little Sisters of the Poor for Chez Ste. Marie–A Taste of France. This popular wine tasting event will take place on Thursday, September 17, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, in St. Mary’s Garden (2325 N Lakewood Ave).
Sample select fine French wines, taste handcrafted hors d’oeuvres, and enjoy the dulcet sounds of the guest string quartet. All proceeds go to support St. Mary’s Home and Jugan Terrace.
Click here for more information.
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2nd Annual Old Town Oktoberfest On Wells: September 18-20
 Old Town raises a stein to Fall as Old Town Oktoberfest returns this September 18–20, 2026! Celebrating the neighborhood's rich German heritage, this three-day street festival transforms Wells Street into a lively Bavarian-inspired destination filled with authentic food, live music, local artisans, and festive traditions.
Festivalgoers can enjoy authentic German favorites including bratwurst and sauerkraut, giant pretzels, and ice-cold beer while dancing to German-inspired performers and popular Midwest bands throughout the weekend. Guests can browse curated arts-and-crafts vendors and compete in crowd-favorite Masskrugstemmen (stein-holding competitions). Sports fans won't miss a moment thanks to the festival's giant LED viewing area.
You can find details such as hours, music lineup, Masskrugstemmen schedule, and more HERE on the Old Town Merchants and Residents Association's website.
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93XRT Pup-Up at the Wiener Circle: Saturday, September 20
 Join 93XRT for a pet-friendly hot dog hangout at The Wiener's Circle (2622 N Clark St), benefiting MCP Rescue and Outreach Chicago, on Saturday, September 19, from 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm.
Get an exclusive T-shirt or an illustrated pet portrait with a donation to MCP Rescue + Outreach Chicago. Receive goodies and swag from partners like Feldco Home Renewal, Shameless Pets, and Brutus Bone Broth.
Click here for more details.
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Old Town Oktoberfest Dog Parade: Sunday, September 20
 Get your Pup ready to strut at the First Annual Dog Parade at Old Town Oktoberfest! Costumes encouraged! Picture cute Old Town doggies and owners in matching lederhosen, dirndls, and fall fashion!
Get tickets here to enter your dog in one of three categories: Wee Wieners (Small Breed: 0lbs-30lbs), Pretzel Pups (Medium Breed: 31lbs-70lbs), and Big Bratwursts (Large Breed: 71lbs+). Prizes will be awarded to a winner in each category, along with Best in Show.
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Magnificent Mile Art Festival: September 19-20
 The Magnificent Mile Art Festival, hosted by 875 N Michigan Ave and The Magnificent Mile Association, showcases the original art of 60+ juried artists from around the country in a variety of media, highlighting jewelry, fashion, glass, and functional art, as well as painting and photography.
Located in the plaza and sidewalks of 875 N Michigan Ave (previously known as the Hancock Building), this free festival is open to the public on September 19 and 20 from 10:00 am- 5:00 pm.
Click here for more details.
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Opa! At The Cathedral: September 18-20
 Join the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral from September 18-20 for Opa! At The Cathedral. This three-day festival, located at 1017 N LaSalle Dr, is a celebration of Greek culture and will feature live music, food, and community. Admission is free, and the festival will run from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm Friday, and 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm Saturday and Sunday.
Come hungry, leave saying Opa!
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SOAR Farm to Table To Pier Celebration: October 1
 Join the Streeterville Organization of Active Residents (SOAR) on Thursday, October 1, to celebrate SOAR and the Farmers Market at Harry Caray’s Navy Pier, located at 700 E Grand Ave. This annual celebration will take place from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm, and will include cocktails, appetizers, a seated dinner, and lots of surprises!
Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.
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