Washington Park Chamber-Cmmrc

08/27/2026

https://chicago.suntimes.com/chicago-history/2026/08/26/why-is-the-island-in-washington-park-behind-a-locked-gate?fbclid=IwZnRzaAT9pZFwZG9mBWZkaWQWUNTzJDDvyvdlcvsl631JlqFj_W7kNmV4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR5lRHP3OVgvgp_X5NbpU540SaFEaiRBXzxQcfygjw0UfYb8ntDqh7enJc-eow_aem_L_cbmBQmz_lufDrpktcAEg

Bynum Island once bustled with park activity, but over the years, the playground fell into disrepair and the land wasn’t maintained.

07/20/2026

Join us for the "ALL RISE" Town Hall Meeting, co-hosted by the Washington Park Chamber of Commerce and the Washington Park Residents’ Advocacy Council.
This is your opportunity to ask questions, share your concerns, and stay informed about major changes and opportunities happening in our neighborhood.
🗓️ Event Details
• Date: Saturday, July 25
• Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Location: Washington Park Field House (5531 S. King Drive)
💬 What We'll Be Discussing:
1. Washington Park TIF Funds for Local Businesses & Homeowners
a. We know TIF funding is available for local businesses, but how can neighborhood homeowners access these funds too?
2. Is Property Redlining Happening in Our Neighborhood?
a. Are insurance companies discriminating against or denying coverage on local properties? Homeowners and community leaders are investigating this issue and want to hear about your experiences.
3. New Housing Built on Vacant Land
a. New housing is popping up across the area, but residents haven't had much say in the process. We’ll discuss:
b. How can local residents get hired for these construction jobs?
c. Will the new buildings match the historic architecture of our neighborhood?
d. Will the rent actually be affordable for working families?
4. The Impact of Short-Term Rentals (Airbnbs)
a. What are the pros and cons of having Airbnbs on your block? Let’s talk about parking, noise, and how guests affect our community.
📲 Need More Information?
Call us at (773) 955-0199 with any questions.
We hope to see you there—your voice matters!

06/30/2026

06/22/2026

The Department of Planning and Development (DPD) and SomerCor will roll out the Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) grant program for applications in the following TIF districts in July:
• Archer/Western, McKinley Park and New City
• Lawrence/Kedzie, North Park and Albany Park
• Lincoln Avenue, Lincoln Square, West Ridge and North Park
• Little Village Industrial, South Lawndale
• Washington Park, Washington Park, Grand Boulevard and Greater Grand Crossing
Applications open: 9 a.m. Wednesday, July 1
Applications close: 5 p.m. Thursday, July 30

The SBIF program uses revenue from TIF districts to help owners of commercial and industrial properties to repair or remodel their facilities for their own business or on behalf of tenants. Tenant businesses are also eligible to apply on their own.

Program participants can receive grants for 30 to 90 percent of project costs, with a maximum grant of $150,000 for commercial properties and $250,000 for industrial properties. The grants are administered by SomerCor on the City's behalf and do not have to be repaid. Those interested in applying can verify that their property is located in an eligible district by using the SBIF Locator Map tool.

DPD and SomerCor will host an informational webinar to review program requirements and the application process. For additional information, visit www.chicago.gov/sbif.

SBIF Informational Webinar
1 p.m. Wednesday, July 1 | Register

04/03/2026

Positive things are happening in the Washington Park Community. Congratulations Torrey!

CHICAGO — Today, Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Housing (DOH) announced an investment of more than $300 million in 15 affordable housing developments across the city as part of the 2025 Qualified Allocation Plan (QAP).

02/15/2026

Help Us Collect Apparel For Our Prom Donation Drive. Donate your new or gently used..
Formal Dresses
Suits
Shoes
Accessories
Now through April 17, 2026
ALL SIZES NEEDED!!!
DROP OFF AT:
002ND DISTRICT POLICE STATION-5101 S. WENTWORTH
312 747-5109

THE PROM GIVEAWAY HOSTED BY THE 002ND DISTRICT CAPS TEAMS, CHICAGO YOUTH PROGRAMS AND THE WASHINGTON PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Saturday, April 18, 2026 1:00P.-4:00p.
Chicago Youth Programs
5350 S. Prairie Ave.
312 747-5109
FREE DRESSES & SUITS
SHOES & ACCESSORIES
RAFFLES & MORE
OPEN TO HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL STUDENTS
*LIMITED SUPPLIES-MUST BRING SCHOOL ID

12/26/2025

Happy Kwanzaa to All and a Blessed New Year!