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The 2nd Ward Newsletter for July 13, 2026
In This Edition:
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2nd Ward Website
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2nd Ward Twitter
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2nd Ward YouTube
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Extreme Heat and Humidity Advisory
The National Weather Service (NWS) is forecasting hot and humid conditions this week for our area, with daily highs in the low to mid-90s and peak heat indices (particularly Tuesday and Wednesday) around 100 degrees away from the lake.
The city's Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) will work closely with the NWS to monitor conditions. Should conditions deteriorate amid the expected heat and humidity, OEMC will coordinate the City’s response by working with citywide departments to assist residents and vulnerable populations.
To receive the latest updates on heat/storm advisories and weather emergencies, residents can register for the City’s emergency alert notifications at NotifyChicago.org, check OEMC’s social media pages, tune in to local media, or download the Chicago OEMC App.
DFSS Senior Centers
Seniors are welcome at any of DFSS’s senior centers (Monday-Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm, except Renaissance Court, which is open 10 am - 5 pm). DFSS partners with OEMC to use robocalls to inform seniors of key information regarding how to stay safe during extreme weather. Visit Chicago.gov/Seniors or senior center locations.
Well-Being Checks
When the temperatures climb to extreme levels, it is important to check on relatives, neighbors, seniors, and our vulnerable populations. If you are unable to make contact, you can request a well-being check by downloading the CHI311 app, visiting 311.chicago.gov, or calling 3-1-1. If there is a medical emergency due to a heat-related illness, call 9-1-1.
Click here for a list of cooling centers.
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Domestic Violence Task-Force Hearing Update
Last Thursday, during the Committee on Public Safety meeting, lead sponsor Alderwoman Tabares and Chicago 77 presented the recommendations of the Chicago-Cook County Violence Against Women Task Force. The task force was established following committee approval six months ago at the November 2025 meeting.
Over the past six months, the task force conducted extensive research, collected and analyzed data, and performed a comprehensive review of the systems serving survivors of domestic violence. Their work identified specific, actionable reforms that can strengthen support for victims and help prevent future tragedies.
I am proud to have sponsored this important initiative and remain committed to holding hearings to advance this critical work.
Click here to read the resolution.
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Chicago Facing $130M Midyear Budget Shortfall
The City is currently facing a projected $130 million midyear budget shortfall. I believe this is the result of the current administration's failure to implement revenue measures already approved by the City Council, not flaws in the budget itself. Some Aldermen supported the budget based on assurances that the administration would execute initiatives such as debt sales and new advertising programs, but those efforts were never meaningfully pursued.
This administration has dropped the ball on revenue collection and continues to rely on taxing corporations heavily. I urge the Mayor to make a midyear budget correction focused on spending reductions, efficiencies, and responsible fiscal management.
Click here to view my comments on Fox 32.
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This Weekend: Sheffield Garden Walk: July 18-19
 I am proud to be the presenting sponsor of the 55th Annual Sheffield Garden Walk this July for the second year in a row. The event will take place this weekend, Saturday, July 18, and Sunday, July 19. This incredible free community event will feature a self-guided walking tour of 50+ beautiful gardens, a Family Fest (on Saturday, July 18), live musical performances, interactive installations, architecture walks presented by the Chicago Architecture Center, live painters, and much more.
This time of year, Lincoln Park exemplifies Chicago's reputation as a "city in a garden." Celebrating the beauty, vitality, and biodiversity of this neighborhood is always a highlight of my summer. As you may know, I was recently able to strengthen our now-active Native Pollinator Garden Ordinance by increasing the maximum plant height to 36 inches in an effort to further support our parks, yards, other green spaces, and local ecosystems altogether (you can read more about that here). My hope is that these efforts to encourage and foster native gardens will ensure the health and beauty for years to come.
My staff and I will be greeting neighbors and visitors as they collect their program books ahead of the garden walk on Saturday and Sunday. Many of you stopped by last year to say hello and enjoy some complimentary popcorn, and I look forward to seeing you all again at this wonderful event.
Click here for more details.
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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. There is an interactive map of all seven street sweeping sections included, as well as 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, July 14: Section 1 (Olive), Section 4 (Red), Section 5 (Yellow)
Scheduled for cleaning on Wednesday, July 15: Section 2 (Blue), Section 4 (Red), Section 5 (Yellow)
Scheduled for cleaning on Thursday, July 16: Section 2 (Blue)
Scheduled for cleaning on Friday, July 17: Section 3 (Purple)
Scheduled for cleaning on Monday, July 20: Section 3 (Purple)
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Coffee with the 18th District Commander: Thursday, July 23
 Join 18th District Commander Christopher Bielfeldt and the CAPS team for coffee and conversation on Thursday, July 23, at Lincoln Park Zoo (Foreman Pavilion)at 10:00 am.
This is an excellent opportunity to speak with the commander and the officers who patrol your neighborhood. 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, July 28
The 18th Police District Councilmembers will host their monthly meeting on Tuesday, July 28, at the Near North Public Library (310 W Division St) at 12:30 pm.
This month's featured guest is 18th District Commander Christopher Bielfeldt, who will provide public safety updates. Click here to register in person and here for the Zoom option.
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National Night Out: Tuesday, August 4
Join the 18th and 1st Chicago Police Districts for National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm at Soldier Field, 1410 S Special Olympics Dr. National Night Out is an annual nationwide event that brings together law enforcement, community partners, and neighbors to strengthen community ties, build positive relationships, and celebrate a safer, more connected community.
If you have any questions, contact the 18th District CAPS Office at 312-742-5778.
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18th District CompStat Report
Computer Statistics report (CompStat) is a weekly report of incidents that have 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:
- 26 June 26 - Offender Charged with July 2025 Armed Robbery and Aggravated Vehicular Hijacking of 32-Year-Old Male
Community Alerts:
- 08 July 26 - 1st District - Strong Arm Robbery
Additional High-Profile Arrests:
- 09 July 26 - Second Juvenile Offender Charged with Multiple Counts of Murder, Attempted Murder in February 2024 Triple Homicide
- 09 July 26 - Offender Charged with March 2024 Robbery and Aggravated Battery of 64-Year-Old Female
- 06 July 26 - Juvenile Offenders Charged with Robbery of 38-Year-Old Female
- 04 July 26 - Offender Charged with Attempted Murder of Chicago Police Department Officer and Aggravated Assault of Second Chicago Police Department Officer
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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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Report Misplaced Divvy Bikes and Scooters in 311
As you undoubtedly know, the use of Divvy Bikes and shared scooters (Lime and Divvy) is much more prevalent during these warmer weather months. I would like to remind visitors and residents that riding on sidewalks is prohibited per the municipal code, and returning them to a dedicated docking station at the completion of your ride is important to keeping our sidewalks clear and free of hazards.
All classic, non-electric Divvy Bikes must be parked at an official Divvy docking station. To park a classic bike, align the front of the bike with the triangular slot in the dock, and firmly push the bike into the dock, holding it in place for a few seconds until the light on the dock turns green. Electric Divvy Bikes and Divvy Scooters may be returned to official Divvy docking stations the same way as Classic Bikes. Additionally, using the attached cable lock, Electric Divvy Bikes may be returned to designated "Virtual Stations" or approved public bike racks found in the Divvy app.
Reporting Divvy Bikes or Scooters parked improperly is an important step to keeping our sidewalks safe. To report an improperly parked Divvy bike, I encourage residents to call 311 or fill out an online service request. Additionally, you may email my office with a photo and location of the bike.
Report a Divvy Bike Parking Complaint here.
Report a Submerged Divvy Bike Complaint here.
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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 Michigan to Ohio
- Scheduled to begin late July.
- Will include some pedestrian safety improvements for crossing perpendicular east-west streets
- Additional details will be shared by USPS letter with nearby residents once known
- Division St streetscape from State to Dearborn
- Scheduled to begin late July.
- New, wider sidewalks with decorative pavers and space for outdoor dining
- Addition of landscaped planters and street furniture
- New lighting
- Southport/Belden intersection reconstruction
- Intersection will be reconstructed over the summer to raise it
- Raised intersections calm traffic and increase pedestrian safety
- Curb bump-outs will also be added to shorten pedestrian crosswalks
- A comparable nearby intersection is Belden and Sheffield
- Aesthetic improvements are included
- Additional details will be shared by USPS letter with nearby residents
- Southport Ave resurfacing from Webster to Fullerton
- Will be completed in conjunction with the Southport and Belden intersection reconstruction
- LaSalle/Delaware installation of rapid flashing beacons for pedestrian crosswalk
- Requested and funded in 2024
- My office continues to push the Chicago Department of Transportation for installation as soon as possible
- LaSalle/Burton installation of rapid flashing beacons for pedestrian crosswalk
- Requested and funded in 2024
- My office continues to push the Chicago Department of Transportation for installation as soon as possible
- Chestnut St complete lighting replacement from Mies van der Rohe to Lake Shore Drive
- The contractor handling the work has informed my office that there has been a delay, which is the result of the need for fresh approvals of two pole locations from the Department of Transportation after unexpected vaulted sidewalks were encountered. All new poles are expected to be installed this week (week of 7/6), and sidewalk concrete restoration is expected the next week (week of 7/13), weather permitting. Full completion of the project is expected by mid-August.
- Wells St replacement of lighting fixtures on existing poles from Division to North Ave (completed)
- Wabash Ave resurfacing from Huron to Superior (completed)
- State Pkwy resurfacing from Schiller to Burton
- Paving scheduled for this week
- Huron St resurfacing from St. Clair to Fairbanks
- McClurg Ct resurfacing from Ohio to Ontario (completed)
- State Pkwy resurfacing from Scott to Schiller
- Pending spot curb replacement on 1300 block
- Additional details will be shared by USPS letter with nearby residents
- Delaware Pl resurfacing from Clark to LaSalle (completed)
- Magnolia Ave resurfacing from Webster to Belden
- Blackhawk St resurfacing from Sedgwick to Larrabee (completed)
- Magnolia/Belden detached pedestrian bump-outs
- Dickens Avenue resurfacing from Clifton to Racine
- 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
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Update on the Division Street Streetscape
With an anticipated start of mid-July or sooner, crews will break ground on the Division Street Streetscape between Dearborn Street and State Street. 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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Metra Clybourn Station Feasibility Study: Thursday, July 23
 The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) invites residents to attend a Public Information Open House for the Metra Clybourn Station Feasibility Study. The Open House will introduce the Study, gather initial feedback on needed improvements at the Metra Clybourn Station, and provide ample opportunity to connect directly with the Study team.
The meeting takes place on Thursday, July 23, at Holstein Park, located at 2200 N Oakley Ave, from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm. If you are unable to attend in person or would like to review meeting materials and submit comments electronically, please contact Scott Speegle at [email protected].
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Ask Millie: A Chance to Learn from Your 2nd Ward Neighbor in Real Estate, Millie Rosenbloom
 Join our special guest and 2nd Ward neighbor, Millie Rosenbloom, at our Mobile Ward Office at the Division Farmers Market at Clark/Division from 8 am to 11 am on Saturday, July 25, 2026.
Millie will be available to answer your questions while the 2nd Ward Team offers information on property tax exemptions, certificate of errors, and other cost-saving programs for residents in the 2nd Ward.
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Kids Leading Kids at Franklin Fine Arts Center: Saturday, July 18
 Kids Leading Kids is proud to host the first-ever fitness festival for kids, led by kids, on Saturday, July 18, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm on the field at Franklin Fine Arts Center, located at 225 W Evergreen Ave.
This free community event will bring children together for a day of movement, leadership, fun, and wellness while empowering young people to inspire and lead their peers.
Click here to learn more.
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Adoption Fees Waived at Chicago Animal Care and Control: Now through July 26
 Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) is once again partnering with BISSELL Pet Foundation for its nationwide Empty the Shelters adoption event. Thanks to BISSELL Pet Foundation's generous sponsorship, adoption fees will be waived for all dogs and cats throughout the event, allowing even more animals to find loving homes.
For Adoptions:
Visit CACC, located at 2741 S Western Ave, daily, between 12:00 pm and 7:00 pm. Please arrive before 5:30 pm if you plan to adopt the same day. Click here to see a list of available animals.
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Gold Coast Neighbors Building Network Meeting: Wednesday, July 22
 Join the Gold Coast Neighbors Association (GCNA) on Wednesday, July 22, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, at St. Chrysostom Church, 1424 N Dearborn St, for an informative discussion on current and upcoming HOA rules and regulations and their impact on board liability. Topics will include the latest condominium law updates, reserve study requirements, and new Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines.
In addition to learning about changes in HOA rules and regulations, attendees will have the opportunity to network with peers from other residential buildings and learn how the GCNA Building Network can help with management and residents of your building. Click here to learn more.
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Chicago Climate Week: July 18-25
 Chicago Climate Week takes place across Chicagoland from July 18–25. As Chicago's first community-led, promoted Climate Week, it brings together events hosted by nonprofits, businesses, universities, community groups, government agencies, and residents across the region.
Whether you are climate-curious or deeply involved in the space, Chicago Climate Week offers opportunities to learn, connect, celebrate, and take action.
Learn more, browse events, and find ways to get involved here.
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String Fellows at Lake Shore Park: Thursday, July 16
The Grant Park Music Festival brings music to the neighborhoods through the popular Night Out in the Parks series. Enjoy String Fellows this Thursday, July 16, at 6:30 pm at Lake Shore Park (808 N Lake Shore Dr). Bring a blanket, chairs, and enjoy a night out in the park.
All neighborhood concerts are free, family-friendly, and take place during the Festival season.
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Taste of River North: July 17-18
Nestled in the heart of River North, this dynamic event showcases the neighborhood’s vibrant culinary scene, live entertainment, and artistic talent, offering an unforgettable experience for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Taste of River North returns on July 17-18.
Click here for more details.
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Song Sung Blue at Lake Shore Park: Saturday, July 18
The Lake Shore Advisory Council presents Song Sung Blue at Lake Shore Park (808 N Lake Shore Drive) on Saturday, July 18, at 8:30 pm. Bring a chair, blankets, and snacks, and enjoy a free movie in the park.
Contact Lake Shore Park if you have any questions at 312-742-7891.
NOTE: This past weekend, the sound system for the Zootopia movie was non-operational due to faulty Chicago Park District equipment. While this was frustrating, the Lake Shore Park Advisory Council found an alternative sound system as a substitute. Alderman Hopkins is grateful for the support of the Park Advisory Council, but urges the Chicago Park District to come prepared to provide these movies to residents of the 2nd Ward and visitors to the park. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all who attended and look forward to seeing you this weekend for another Movie in the Park!
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NewberryFest: Saturday, July 18
 Visit the Newberry Library at 60 W Walton St for NewberryFest on Saturday, July 18, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. NewberryFest will take over the library's first floor, providing unique opportunities for engagement, education, and enjoyment. The event is free and open to the public.
Throughout 2026, the Newberry will be commemorating America’s semiquincentennial—the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Click here to learn more.
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Dearborn Garden Walk: Sunday, July 19
Tickets are now on sale for the 66th annual Dearborn Garden Walk, put on by the North Dearborn Association. Taking place on Sunday, July 19, from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm, this event showcases some of the best gardens in the Gold Coast.
Click here for more information
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Beatles Sing-Along at Lake Shore Park: Sunday, July 26
The Lake Shore Advisory Council and Skyline Village Chicago present a Beatles sing-along at Lake Shore Park (808 N Lake Shore Drive) on Sunday, July 26, from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm. Bring a chair, blankets, snacks, instruments, and gear up for a night of singing Beatles tunes.
Contact Lake Shore Park with any questions at 312-742-7891.
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