Today, I am pleased to report improvement, slow but sure, at 38th and Chicago. Most exciting is the ChicagoAvenue Fire Arts Center at 3749 Chicago, set to start renovations in 2009 with a grand opening in 2010!
I have been proud to spearhead support for revitalization of 38th and Chicago, in partnership with many neighbors, public and private partners. Here are some of the building blocks for change at this important corner:
- Provided city funding opportunities to neighborhood business corners, including 38th and Chicago. Prior to this major policy shift, all city funding was targeted to commercial corridors like Lake, Franklin, and West Broadway
- Supported critical work by Police and Licensing staff to improve safety at 38th and Chicago. With the help of great city staff and active neighbors, crime is down dramatically at this corner
- Supported City adoption in 2007 of a Small Area Plan for 38th Street and Chicago Avenue. This plan will help 38th and Chicago projects obtain grant and public funding
- Supported City dollars for façade improvements to local businesses at to 38th and Chicago, granted in 2007
- Created the 38th and Chicago Implementation committee in 2008, getting participation from multiple neighborhoods, businesses, and other stakeholders to continue steering the work of the Small Area Plan and improving the area
- Built a partnership with Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers to provide critical business and development expertise to 38th and Chicago – expertise missing from South Minneapolis due to the lack of a community development corporation (CDC) serving our area.
- Spearheaded City support for the 8th Ward resident led Chicago Avenue Fire Arts Center, set to open at 3749 Chicago.
