Ald. Burnett reveals new development projects at WCA annual meeting

 By Susan Fong 

Alderman Walter Burnett revealed a cornucopia of development projects in the 27th Ward at the West Central Association's 89th annual meeting.  

Members of the WCA met Sept. 18 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and re-elected Thomas Broderick of Pickens Kane as association president before receiving Burnett's state of the ward analysis.

            Burnett began by emphasizing the cooperation of many parties, such as the City, developers, and contractors who have reinvested in the community. Tax increment financing funds obtained through the City "have enabled land acquisition and infrastructure changes that are a strong selling point for the area," Burnett said.

            One example is the West Humboldt Park Library project, which acquired a 41,000 square foot site in the community; construction is scheduled for summer 2008. Others are the Jewel food store on Kinzie and Desplaines Streets, which is under construction, and the Hellenic Museum in Greek town, which starts construction in the fall.

Burnett emphasized the importance of affordable housing, attracting businesses that would bring jobs, and investing in educational institutions to meet the economy’s the future needs.

He also mentioned new opportunities created by the First Community Land Trust of Chicago. A City ordinance has conveyed ownership of ten City-owned lots in the 27th Ward to the trust, which will develop the property. Dwellings built on the land are sold to first-time homebuyers, but the trust retains ownership of the land by leasing it to buyers, which makes the houses more affordable. Residents’ rights to the land and to the proceeds if they sell their houses are spelled out in a lease agreement with the trust. In addition to encouraging ownership among people who may not typically be able to afford a house, the trust runs programs to help owners participate in community planning and development.

At North and Clybourn Avenues, the New City Redevelopment Project will fill the block that long had been home to the New City YMCA. The project will provide 494 new residential units, more than 350,000 square feet of retail space, 1,114 off-street parking spaces, more than two acres of open space, and 1.5 acres for a handicapped-accessible plaza for events such as farmers markets, art fairs, and seasonal celebrations, Burnett said.

The Alderman asked the YMCA to remain in his ward and help develop another YMCA at 824 N. Hamlin Ave. Funds generated from the sale of the New City property will offset the cost of maintaining this new YMCA, which will open early 2008.

Burnett emphasized the YMCA has been "very effective" with its recreational and educational programs. Community organizations have asked the YMCA to develop programs for parents and other community members, along with its existing youth programs, he said.

Other major recreation projects in the ward are the 1.75-acre West Haven Park on Washington Boulevard between Wolcott Avenue and Wood Street and the Beidler School Campus Park between the school at 3151 W. Walnut St. and Lake Street. The project should be complete by spring 2008. "This park brings a much needed recreational and park space to the area," Burnett said.

Burnett has asked developers to allocate 15% of new developments of mixed-use or residential buildings to affordable housing or to participate in the Donation Tax Credit program. Funds from this program help revitalize economically challenged communities. Developers who contribute can deduct part of their donations on their Illinois and Federal income tax returns.

The City has acquired the Viceroy Hotel at 1519 W. Warren Blvd. to create a single room occupancy residence and has issued a request for proposals to help develop a drug treatment and training center there. The Alderman hopes two empty lots adjacent to the hotel "will be developed to bring housing and jobs," he said.

Turning to education, Burnett mentioned the new Rowe & Clark Math and Science Academy at 3645 W. Chicago Ave. and Polaris Charter School’s redevelopment at 620 N. Sawyer Ave. as positives for the community. Three Golden Apple teachers will head Polaris, Burnett noted.

With the combination of development in the industrial, residential, and educational sector, Burnett noted "the vibrancy and re-empowerment of the community require a commitment from all levels," including City, business, and community leaders.

.           For more information about the West Central Association Chamber of Commerce, call (312) 902-4922. For further information about the 27th Ward,  contact Burnett’s office at (312) 432-1995 or log on to www.aldermanburnett.com.