Chicago: ICYMI: Mayor Brandon Johnson Joins Ald. Lawson For 44th Ward Day In The Ward Visit
illi News/10315195

CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Alderman Bennett Lawson came together today for the 44th Ward Day in the Ward event. This event is part of a series of neighborhood visits aimed at connecting City leaders with community leaders and small business owners to better understand the needs of different neighborhoods in Chicago.

Mayor Johnson expressed his gratitude towards the community spaces and leaders who welcomed his administration with open arms. He also highlighted the importance of these productive conversations in ensuring that the needs of Lakeview are met through continued investments in Chicago.

The event, which took place in the vibrant Lakeview neighborhood, included various activities such as grabbing coffee at Steingold's Deli, touring the historic Music Box Theatre, visiting AIDS Garden Chicago, and meeting with local business owners at the Diversey Driving Range. The day ended with a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Lakeview Landing affordable housing development.

The Johnson administration has invested $30.3 million into infrastructure projects in the 44th ward, with $4.5 million being delivered this year alone to support local businesses in Lakeview. In addition, 111 youth jobs were created for residents of the 44th ward through One Summer Chicago this summer.

More on illi News

• Nashville International Chopin Piano Competition partners with Lipscomb University to host 2025 competition
• All Y'alls Foods Expands Global Reach: It's Jerky Y'all Now Available on Amazon Across 10 European Marketplaces
• Practus LLP Attorney Advises Polen Capital on Launch of $100 Million ETF
• Chicago: Mayor Brandon Johnson Statement On Trump Administration Cutting $2.1B In Public Transit Funds
• Wise Business Plans Launches Top-Rated Custom Business Plan Writing Services Across Chicago Metro

Deputy Mayor of Business, Economic and Neighborhood Development Kenya Merritt spoke about their Build Better Together initiative which focuses on making strategic investments to create housing opportunities, jobs, and strengthen neighborhoods across Chicago. She also mentioned that today's visits showcased the momentum they have built and highlighted future opportunities for growth.

One notable recipient of support from the Johnson administration is the Music Box Theatre, a 100-year-old building that was awarded a $1.2 million Community Development Grant to expand their services and add a third auditorium in two long-vacant storefronts adjacent to the historic theatre. This grant will allow them to host larger events and attract more visitors from around the region.

The Department of Planning and Development (DPD) has also provided support to other businesses in the 44th ward, including Yu & Associates Collaborative and Luckycat. Yu & Associates Collaborative received $144,513 to renovate their on-site office space, while Luckycat received $214,875 for restaurant renovations.

The 44th Ward Day in the Ward event was a successful opportunity for City leaders to connect with the Lakeview community and gain a first-hand understanding of their needs. With continued investments and support from the Johnson administration, Lakeview and other neighborhoods in Chicago can look forward to a brighter future.

---

Show All News | Report Violation