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September 13, 2026
Dear neighbors,
As you know, after the last Amtrak maintenance facility community meeting, I demanded that the second meeting be canceled until the presenters could show up better prepared to answer our questions and be transparent and accountable. I have now been informed that Amtrak has decided to reschedule that meeting for September 17 at 6:30 pm at the Pui Tak Center in Chinatown, 2218 S. Wentworth Ave.
I am not yet aware if there will be translating services available at the event, I can tell you that I requested translation services.
In an attempt to ensure that this meeting would be a productive use of your time, I requested that any information or materials being presented at that meeting be shared with me in advance. Unfortunately, Amtrak denied my request. As always, I’ll share more information with you all as (and if) I receive it.
I am told that Shore Capital founder and White Sox minority owner Justin Ishbia plans to attend this meeting in person, along with other stakeholders from Amtrak and the development team. I encourage everyone who will be impacted by these plans to attend this meeting, ask your questions, and make your voices heard.
You may have also seen that Amtrak sent a letter to the City last week making clear that they intend to exert their right to “federal statutory exemptions,” meaning they do not legally have to get City approval for this project, and will simply impose this unilaterally upon us. While this was not unexpected, it is just another slap in our faces. Commissioner Daley and I continue to work with other elected partners, community, environmental and legal organizations to slow this process down, ensure a full environmental impact study is conducted and that the community be engaged fully before any construction or site preparation moves forward.
Let’s be clear: This is our community, and we deserve input and transparency in this process. I’ll see you all on September 17, please bring your friends, family and neighbors to support the community!
Logistical notes for Thursday:
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Pui Tak Center will provide a discounted parking validation for the Chinatown Parking Lots located on Wentworth Avenue south of Cermak (there are two). Parkers need to download the Metropolis app and get validated at Pui Tak Center’s front desk at 2218 S. Wentworth Ave. With validation, the first three hours of parking is $3. Those who park more than three hours pay $18.99. Check this link for more detailed information on how to use the parking lot.
- We encourage people to arrive early and carpool, walk or bike.
- I was given corrected information about the capacity of the Pui Tak Center:
- 3rd Floor Auditorium - 175 seated plus room for 75-100 standing
- No virtual option for participation has been shared.
This week we mourned the tragic loss of life on 9/11, and celebrated the bravery of those heroes who ran into the face of danger to help their fellow man. I am humbled by their sacrifice and honor those whose absence is still felt, and we do our best to remember and honor the sacrifice of every person who were lost.
I joined the ribbon cutting at Evergreen Health & Wellness center over the weekend. They are bringing a holistic health facility to 3548 S. Normal. I also got to congratulate the winners of the 2026 Greater Chicago Chinese American Youth Volunteer Service Awards Ceremony on Sunday at UIC.
Finally, it was great to be out and about over the weekend at the “You Have Friends Everywhere” block party on Morgan, the Bridgeport Village Block Party and at the 129th celebration of Santa Maria Incornota at St. Therese Church.
Have a great week,
Ald. Lee
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