One of the greatest strengths of the City of Chicago is the diversity and vibrancy of its neighborhoods. Like many cities in the Midwest, however, Chicago’s neighborhoods are faced with multiple challenges including a depressed housing market, lack of employment opportunities, and many years of population decline.
The results of these conditions are apparent in a number of Chicago neighborhoods that were once densely populated and lively, but now suffer from high vacancy and unemployment. In light of the vastly different economic and market conditions of the city today, public and private interests need a road map for how to invest in these neighborhoods to improve them in the most efficient and effective way.
This project examined a variety of models for neighborhood reinvestment that build on existing neighborhood assets as catalysts for broader investment and redevelopment. Fortunately, the residents, business owners, and other stakeholders in these neighborhoods have been meeting for years and planning to address these challenges through a variety of projects and initiatives. As a result, these communities already have a great deal of momentum moving towards a better future.
Camiros assisted the City in creating specific design concepts for the Green Healthy Neighborhoods program with a focus on urban agriculture and pedestrian/bicycle improvements in order to promote key elements of the Plan.
