Neighbors and businesses around the Armitage Industrial Corridor had a multitude of ideas to enhance the area, at the latest community meeting hosted by the Chicago Department of Planning.
Ideas presented at the Feb. 4 meeting at Radio Flyer included adding a library, more community engagement opportunities, apartments, cafes near train stops, a bike- and pedestrian-friendly environment, a dining and entertainment district, small businesses to create jobs, an extended 606 trail, bike and rollerblade paths and better connections along Oak Park Avenue between North and Grand.
The planning process for the corridor on Chicago’s northwest side has been underway for almost two years, involving residents, business owners, the Greater Northwest Chicago Development Corp, and local elected officials.
The goal is to strengthen the corridor as an economic hub, improve transportation access and align it with the city’s goals on equity and environmental justice.
The goal of the latest meeting was to gather feedback and compile it into a report that will be published alongside other materials from the planning process.
Planners have engaged with businesses, residents and developers to balance job preservation with shifting market conditions, including new residential developments. Key goals include maintaining the area as a job center, improving transportation and pedestrian safety and prioritizing sustainability.
“We want to keep this area a job center while recognizing the changing conditions,” said Brad Roback, economic development coordinator the planning department.
Roback led the AIC study meeting, introduced key speakers, outlined event logistics and encouraged community input.
Roback gave a brief presentation and community members had the opportunity to engage with the committee, ask questions and share their input.
“After this, we hope to present it to the Chicago Plan Commission for an informational review, targeting March for that step,” he said. “Afterward, we plan to release a draft of the plan for public comment for about 30 days, with the goal of adoption around May of this year. That outlines the timeline and next steps.”
The planning process for the Armitage Industrial Corridor began in July with an open house at Intentional Sports, where about 30 attendees provided initial feedback.
Alderman Christopher Taliaferro of the 29th Ward, attended the meeting and expressed his gratitude and interest in this project.
“I believe the plans and ideas for this … present great opportunities for both the west side and northwest side of Chicago,” he said.
Steve Green, chairperson for Galewood Neighbors, discussed the corridor’s history, evolving industry trends, and community engagement in the planning process.
“It’s very evident that the corridors are changing because the industry is changing. This was originally built near the tracks because that was the main mode of transportation back then,” Green said.
Green emphasized the community’s active role in the planning process, praising the Department of Planning for its transparency and engagement.
“I think everybody’s very positive about how the Department of Planning has run this process and really allowed the community to give feedback. That’s always a good thing,” Green said. “People appreciate having a say in what the plan looks like. We’ll see what the final plan includes, but based on what they’ve presented tonight, it looks very promising,” Green said.
