Mayor Brandon Johnson and Chicago Department of Transportation Celebrates $8.7 Million “Soul City West” Corridor Streetscape Project Completion in Austin
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CHICAGO ~ Chicago's Austin neighborhood is celebrating the completion of an $8.7 million streetscape improvement project along Chicago Avenue, known as the "Soul City" corridor. Mayor Brandon Johnson, along with the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT), 29th Ward Alderman Chris Taliaferro, 37th Ward Alderwoman Emma Mitts, and community partners gathered today to cut the ribbon on this revitalized area.

Mayor Johnson expressed his excitement for the project, stating that it showcases what can be achieved when neighborhoods are invested in and when collaboration between residents and local government takes place. He believes that this project is a reflection of the pride and potential of the Austin community and will create opportunities for small businesses while building a stronger West Side for future generations.

The Soul City West project focused on redesigning Chicago Avenue between Austin Boulevard and Central Avenue to make it a safer, more vibrant, and walkable street. The upgrades include wider sidewalks, new street trees and landscaping, upgraded lighting, and various safety measures for all users. This is just the first phase of three planned sections, with future phases extending east to Cicero Avenue.

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CDOT Commissioner Tom Carney emphasized that this project brings much-needed investment to Chicago Avenue by improving traffic safety, upgrading aging infrastructure, and creating a welcoming corridor that reflects the strength of the Austin community. He also mentioned that CDOT worked closely with community stakeholders throughout the project's design process and looks forward to continuing these improvements in future phases.

Alderman Taliaferro from the 29th Ward expressed his support for the project as it brings long-overdue investment to Chicago Avenue while also supporting local businesses and organizations that make it a vital corridor for their community. Alderwoman Mitts from the 37th Ward echoed his sentiments and added that she is proud to stand with their partners and neighbors in celebrating this milestone.

Some key enhancements of this project include roadway and intersection safety improvements, wider sidewalks with natural parkway pavers and bold accent colors, site furnishings, new street trees and landscaping, curb extensions and raised crosswalks for pedestrian safety, bus boarding islands for improved transit access, upgraded street lighting, full-width roadway resurfacing, drainage improvements, and new curb and gutter. Additionally, the project will also feature bicycle facilities such as raised bike lanes and new pavement markings and high-visibility crosswalks.

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Malcolm Crawford, Executive Director of the Austin African American Business Networking Association, sees this project as more than just a streetscape improvement. He believes it brings hope and investment to their businesses, community, and future. The project was shaped by community feedback gathered through public meetings and workshops throughout the design process. Residents expressed concerns about speeding, lack of street trees and amenities, and narrow sidewalks - all of which have been addressed in this project.

As part of the construction process, the streetscape will also feature custom circular benches known as Peace Circles. These were designed in partnership with Territory, a youth-focused design organization based in Austin. Local youth played a significant role in shaping the vision for these gathering spaces by contributing original artwork and building prototypes. This effort aims to reflect community identity through design.

CDOT is already preparing for the next phase of improvements known as Soul City Central between Central Avenue and Laramie Avenue. This will be followed by Soul City East - the third and final phase extending from Laramie to Cicero Avenue.

The completion of this project is a significant milestone for the Austin neighborhood as it not only improves its infrastructure but also reflects its vibrant community spirit. With continued investment in their neighborhoods and collaboration between residents and local government, the Soul City corridor is set to thrive even further in the future.

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