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48th WARD NEWS: JULY 17, 2026
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EMANUEL CONGREGATON / FERN HILL DEVELOPMENT UPDATE
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Neighbors,
Emanuel Congregation has been a beloved neighbor and part of our Edgewater community for over 70 years, but their building is at the end of its useful life. To secure Emanuel’s future in Edgewater for years to come, they’ve partnered with Fern Hill and the greater community over the last six months to develop their proposal over three iterations.
Version 3 includes a new synagogue facility, up to 603 homes (including 120 affordable), retail, a community hub/wellness center, a pedestrian pathway to and along the lakefront, bike parking, and 250 parking spaces.
Following our extensive community engagement process—including meetings with the Chicago Park District, neighbors, and relevant community organizations—I am allowing Version 3 to proceed to the next step of the Planned Development process, contingent on these community benefits:
- More Family-Sized Housing: At least 25% of the rentable square footage will be allocated to 2- to 4-bedroom units.
- Permanently Preserved Lakefront Access through a binding Public Access Easement.
- Park and Public Way Investments:
- Free, publicly accessible restrooms
- Storage facilities for Chicago Park District
- $100,000 toward Max Pastin Playground
- $50,000 toward public safety
- $50,000 toward bike and pedestrian safety along Thorndale
- Sustainability Measures: Bird-friendly design and green infrastructure aligning with 48th Ward Sustainable Development Priorities.
The next step for the project is to go before Chicago Plan Commission for Lakefront Protection and Planned Development reviews. As part of this process, we will work with CDOT to publish the completed traffic study and travel demand management plan.
Thank you to everyone who engaged with my office on this project. Nearly 400 neighbors joined us across three community meetings, and we received and reviewed 1,041 online feedback form submissions. The project reflects our shared development priorities, which include diverse housing stock, equitable transit-oriented development, and sustainability.
Read more on our blog.
Yours in Community,
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Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth
48th Ward Alderwoman
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STOP SIGN AT BRYN MAWR DLSD OFF-RAMP
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Dear Neighbors,
I am pleased to announce the installation of a brand new Stop Sign on the Dusable Lake Shore Drive off ramp at Bryn Mawr! This Stop Sign will make it safer for all users at this busy intersection including vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. It can often take motorists time to get used to a new Stop Sign, so please be extra vigilant at this intersection. Thank you to the neighbors who have been advocating for traffic safety improvements at this intersection for over a decade. Thank you to the CDOT Traffic Engineers and Sign Division for working on this project. Additional improvements to this intersection will be coming soon including improved pavement markings and signage.
These improvements are part of the 48th Ward's commitment to Vision Zero, the goal of no traffic-related deaths or severe injuries. We are proud that the 48th Ward was one of 15 wards in the City of Chicago with zero traffic fatalities in 2025. This marks our third consecutive year with zero traffic fatalities in the ward. When we organize our streets with clear spaces for pedestrians, vehicles, and cyclists, everyone is safer. Read more about these efforts on our blog.
Yours in Community,
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Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth
48th Ward Alderwoman
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DEVELOPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE
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Landmarking Bryn Mawr - Update
Last week, the Commission on Chicago Landmarks voted unanimously in favor of landmark designation for the Bryn Mawr Avenue District!
Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth is proud to put this initiative forward and support the preservation of this historic, architecturally significant, and pedestrian-oriented commercial core of Edgewater. We continue to work closely with and support property owners, business owners, and neighbors along this corridor as we invest in the future of Bryn Mawr.
On Wednesday, this recommendation for landmark designation was introduced at City Council and will go through the Zoning Committee. We continue to support development on this corridor that respects the landmark district designation. Landmarking a district does not prohibit development, and there are many examples of successful projects that have adapted their designs to preserve a historically significant structure.
Learn more on our blog.
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SSA #26 Open House
- When: Tuesday, July 21 from 4-7pm
- Where: Edgewater Chamber (1210 W Rosedale)
- No RSVP required
Still haven't signed YES for renewing SSA #26 in Edgewater for the next 15 years? Now is your chance! Edgewater Chamber is hosting a friendly, casual, informational open house at their office to give property owners the opportunity to talk directly with staff about SSA #26 and sign in person! If SSA 26 expires, Edgewater's business districts will lose funding for sidewalk litter abatement, landscaping, streetscaping, holiday decor, sidewalk snow removal, neighborhood branding, public art, special events, and more. Learn more online.
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Glenwood Contra-Flow Bike Lane Striping
Contraflow bike lane striping is returning to the Glenwood Greenway, following resurfacing of some of the worst stretches of Glenwood. This is part of our efforts to upgrade and improve our existing bike infrastructure, while we also fill gaps in our bike grid.
And, we're just getting started! This week, street resurfacing will begin at the following Glenwood locations (weather permitting):
- Glenwood: Balmoral to Berwyn
- Glenwood: Bryn Mawr to Ridge
- Glenwood: Rosedale to Ardmore
When we organize our streets with clear spaces for pedestrians, vehicles, and cyclists, everyone is safer.
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Senn High School Pedestrian Safety Improvements
The pedestrian safety improvements near Senn High School are moving forward on-schedule. The detour for Phase I around Senn High School was taken down at the end of last week. This opened the new raised intersection at N Glenwood and W Thorndale to traffic.
Phase II started this week and includes the following closures:
- Intersection at Glenwood & Ardmore for construction of a raised intersection
- West leg of the intersection at Greenview & Thorndale for construction of a raised crosswalk
Read more about this project on our blog.
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Hollywood & Kenmore during resurfacing
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3 Week Outlook: Projected Grind Schedule
Alleys:
- Argyle/Ainslie/Kenmore/Sheridan (July 17)
- Hollywood/Olive/Clark (July 17)
- Glenwood/Ridge/Hollywood (July 17)
- Glenlake/Thorndale/Kenmore/Sheridan (July 20)
Streets:
- Glenwood: Balmoral to Berwyn (July 17)
- Glenwood: Bryn Mawr to Ridge (July 17)
- Glenwood: Rosedale to Ardmore (July 17)
- Sheridan: Glenlake to Thorndale (July 20)
Learn more on our 2026 construction blog.
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DWM Bryn Mawr / Sheridan Construction Update
This construction project is currently paused as DWM’s design office works on solutions to the utility conflicts found on Sheridan Rd. Steel plates and cold patches remain in place and the pipes are wrapped up and stored securely. Please note that the contractor is digging test holes this week in several locations to obtain additional information that will enable the project to move forward. The 48th Ward office will provide an update once DWM has a revised project timeline.
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Sheridan Resurfacing Update - Montrose to Foster
Sheridan Resurfacing is ahead of schedule. Resurfacing should be complete by early next week. Pavement markings/striping will go in starting this week. After pavement markings are completed, parking restrictions will be lifted.
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Submit Requests and Stay Informed with 311 and ChiStreetWork
For non-emergency city service requests, file a 311 report online, through the app, or by dialing 3-1-1. You can also search for and follow along with local city projects at chistreetwork.chicago.gov.
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Ward Night
- When: Tuesday, July 21 from 6:30-7:30pm
- Where: 48th Ward Office (1129 W Bryn Mawr) & Zoom
- Register online.
Join us for Ward Night, where you set the agenda! Ward Night meetings are an opportunity for neighbors to speak to each other and the alderwoman about local issues, so bring your questions and your energy! Read a recap of last week's meeting here.
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We Hear You: Meet the Sun-Times and WBEZ Newsrooms
- When: Thursday, July 23 from 5-7pm
- Where: Bramble Arts Loft (5545 N Clark)
- Register online.
Join members of both the Sun-Times and WBEZ newsrooms for one-on-one conversations about journalistic coverage in Edgewater! Ask us your questions, provide feedback, or simply come to chat about what community issues matter most to you.
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Andersonville Summer Sidewalk Sale
- When: Friday, July 24 - Sunday, 26
- Where: 4800-5800 N Clark
- Learn more online.
Join us as more than 40 businesses from 4800 to 5800 N Clark and adjacent side streets expand their storefronts to line the sidewalks with summer sales, bargain antiques, one-of-a-kind merchandise, fashion apparel and local treasures! Once again this year, independent musicians and other artists will perform throughout the district, entertaining as you explore the one-mile district. See a list of participating businesses here.
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Chicago Youth Summit
- When: Saturday, July 25 from 11am-4pm
- Where: UIC Student Center East (750 S Halsted)
- Register online.
Are you a young Chicagoan (ages 14-19) with big ideas and a passion for making a difference? Join us for the Youth Voice, Real Change Summit - a powerful afternoon focused on youth leadership, creativity, connection and community impact.
This event is designed to uplift youth voices and create space for young people to connect with peers, engage in meaningful conversations and explore opportunities to lead change in their communities.
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Treatment Not Trauma Townhall
- When: Tuesday, July 28 from 6-8pm
- Where: Broadway United Methodist Church (3338 N Broadway)
- Register online.
Join us for a conversation with neighbors about Treatment Not Trauma and Chicago's citywide CARE system. This event brings together a local coalition of community members, elected officials, and organizations to build community and learn more about public mental health.
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Low-Interest Grants Available for Those Affected by Severe Storms
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has established Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) to help residents and businesses impacted by the severe storms that occurred on June 10, June 11, and June 17, 2026 to apply for low-interest loans. In Chicago, centers are located at two Chicago Public Library locations, the Pullman Branch (11001 S Indiana) and the Thurgood Marshall Branch (506 S Racine). Centers are open through Thursday, July 30. Click here to learn more and schedule an appointment.
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48th Ward Museum Pass
Due to popular demand, we are OUT of individual Botanic Garden tickets at the ward office. However, our general museum pass includes admission to the Botanic Garden (as well as many other local institutions) for you and up to three guests! Come by the ward office to pick one up, or fill out the request form online here. Visit our blog to learn more about how the museum pass works and see a list of participating institutions!
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SAVE THE DATE: Edgewater Music Fest
- When: August 28-30
- Where: Broadway & Thorndale
- Learn more online.
The North Side’s coolest street fest returns this year, August 28-30! Join the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce and neighbors for three days of music and street vendors. See you there!
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Hazardous Air Quality: Risks and Precautions
This week, the City of Chicago is under an air quality advisory due to wildfire smoke blowing in from Canada. General risks include headaches, strained breathing, irritated eyes/sinuses, fatigue, chest pain, and coughing. Poor air quality can be hazardous to anyone, and it can aggravate health problems such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. We encourage everyone to stay indoors when possible and to wear a mask outside.
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Reimagining Public Safety
- When: Thursday, July 23 from 6-8pm
- Where: Mather High School (5835 N Lincoln)
- No RSVP required
Join us for Reimagining Public Safety, a community meeting where we'll discuss upcoming district council elections and the selection process for the new Police Superintendent with members of the Community Commission on Public Safety & Accountability (CCPSA). This event is hosted by Alderwoman Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth, Alderperson Andre Vasquez, and Alderman Matt Martin.
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Beach Flag Warning System
Please note that all of Chicago's beaches are closed during air quality advisories like the one the city is under this week. When not under air quality advisory, we encourage all neighbors to observe the Chicago Park District's flag warning system which indicates which beaches are safe for swimming, where caution is advised, and where swimming is prohibited on a day to day basis. While flags are visible at all lakefront swimming areas, you can also check the status of a location online here.
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Pines of Edgewater Waitlist Opens July 27
We are pleased to announce the re-opening of the income restricted 1 bedroom waitlist on Monday, July 27 for the Pines of Edgewater apartments. We hope you will pass this on to friends, clients, and colleagues who may be interested in applying for affordable housing in the 48th Ward.
The waitlist is not a lottery. All applicants will be added to the list and contacted for an interview when their name comes to the top of the list. To review eligibility requirements and complete an application please visit www.thepinesofedgewater.com starting on July 27 and click “Affordable Waitlist.” Contact 773-728-5009 or [email protected] with questions and concerns.
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Shoreline Advisory - Update from Army Corps of Engineers
During the Chicago Shoreline Advisory Board’s second-quarter meeting, representatives from the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) joined to provide updates on the USACE Shoreline Study. The Shoreline Study received a congressional appropriation in 2023 after Lake Michigan experienced historically high lake levels in 2019 and 2020. The lake levels caused significant erosion and damage across Chicago’s entire shoreline.
During the Shoreline Advisory Board meeting, members learned that the release of preliminary plans has been delayed due to changes with the federal administration. These changes include a shift in support from the federal administration for this study, resulting in significant funding constraints. The USACE now anticipates that the report is on track to be finalized by the end of 2027.
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CPD Policy Review Feedback Opportunity
As part of CPD’s ongoing mission to grow trust within the communities they serve, CPD is taking comments from the public on the De-escalation, Response to Resistance, and Use of Force policy. The feedback period closes July 31, 2026. Read the policy and provide comment here.
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24th District Council Monthly Meeting
- When: Sunday, July 19 at 3pm
- Where: Indo American Center (6328 N California)
- No RSVP required
Are you interested in public safety? Looking for a way to get involved in community safety initiatives? Attend your next local district council meeting and join the conversation! Each district council is made up of three people elected by their community to build stronger relationships with police. The more people who participate in this vital community policing process, the more effective it can be. Thank you for working with us to build a safe and healthy neighborhood where we can all thrive.
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CHECK OUT THE 48th WARD CALENDAR
Never miss an event! See the calendar on our website for more exciting things happening in the ward. Fill out this form to have your own event listed.
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WHERE IN THE WARD IS LENI?
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Congratulations to the Jewel-Osco at 5343 N Broadway on their grand re-opening! Leni attended the ribbon cutting where Jewel-Osco presented the Greater Chicago Food Depository with a $3,000 check to support their work to combat food insecurity in our city.
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Last Thursday, the Committee on Public Safety held a hearing about the Chicago-Cook County Task Force to Reduce Violence Against Women. Thanks to Chair Lee, Commissioner Miller, and Chair Silverstein (pictured above) for their hard work and collaboration on this vital project.
In fall 2025, Leni cosponsored and championed a resolution calling for the creation of the Chicago-Cook County Task Force to Reduce Violence Against Women. The resolution was put forward in response to alarming new data that shows a sharp rise in domestic-related shootings and murders, and brings together multiple levels of government and community organizations to form a coordinated response to the crisis of violence against women and children. The resolution passed in November and the Task Force held its first meeting on January 7, 2026.
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Thanks to the Kenmore Plaza Tenants Association for having us at their 30th anniversary jazz BBQ! Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky joined in to enjoy excellent food and live music with our neighbors.
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Our 2026 summer interns Sarah, Meklet, and Elie joined the Alderwoman at this month's City Council meeting where alders discussed the city's parking meters, bird-friendly building design, infrastructure funding, and more. Afterwards, they took a tour of City Hall with Agnes and Conor.
Want to go to the next City Council meeting? Learn more about attending and giving public comment here.
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Edgewater Greek Fest returned this year at St. Andrews! This annual festival brings together parishioners, neighbors, and visitors from across Chicagoland for a weekend of delicious food, lively music, traditional dancing, and family-friendly fun. This year’s festival was especially meaningful as we celebrated the 64th annual Greek Fest and the 100th anniversary of St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church!
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