Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan by Jackson Morsey

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Produced for Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council, 2019

Great Cities Institute Teresa Cรณrdova, Ph.D., Director Project Managers Jackson Morsey, AICP, Urban Planner Jack Rocha, Economic Development Planner Staff Tim Imeokparia, Ph.D., AICP, Director of Research and Planning Thea Crum, Director of Neighborhoods Initiative Matt Wilson, Economic Development Planner Enrique Castillo, Research Assistant Benjamin Corpuz, Research Assistant Elisabeth Rask, Research Assistant Alexis Stein, Research Assistant

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council Craig Chico, President and CEO Sonya Eldridge, Program Director Fabiola Flores, SSA #10 Program Manager

Planning Committee Education Barton Dassinger, Chavez Elementary Sandy Traback, Resident Paul Schissler, Lara Elementary Nora Cadenas, Seward Elementary Patricia Brekke, Back of the Yards College Prep High School Economic Development & Employment Craig Chico, BYNC Fabiola Flores, BYNC Sonya Eldridge, BYNC Jesse Iniguez, Back of the Yards Coffee Terri Cox, Matanky Realty Jonathan Pereira, The Plant Chicago Public Health Kulsum Ameji, Legal Assistance Foundation Linda G. Coronado, U.N.I.O.N. Impact Margarita Reina, Chicago Department of Public Health Bruce Wellems, Peace and Education Coalition Ramon Sanchez, Access Community Health Center Network Sonya Eldridge, BYNC

Rachel Bhagwat, La Casa Norte Sr. Angie Kolacinski, Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish Housing, Beautification, & Transportation Emilio Carrasquillo, Spanish Coalition for Housing Sal Cerna, The Resurrection Project Civic Engagement & Community Relations Alejandra Sanchez, The Resurrection Project Jose Alonso, Resident Bruce Wellems, Peace and Education Coalition Arts & Culture Hommy David Gonzalez, The Port Gloria Talamantes, BYNC/The Gate Claudette Soto, Vamos Liliana Celso, Peace and Education Coalition Rolando Santoyo, La Selva Shop Mashaune Hardy, Resident Tonika Johnson, Resident Alberto Alaniz, Precious Blood Ministry Br. Aaron Richardson, Treehouse Music Group Br. Juan AcuĂąa, Precious Blood Ministry

Community Wellbeing (Safety, Youth, & Family) Berto Aguayo, The Resurrection Project Sabrina King, Chicago Police Department Salvador Cerna, The Resurrection Project Alejandra Sanchez, The Resurrection Project Hallie Trauger, BOTY College Preparatory Linda G. Coronado, U.N.I.O.N. Impact Pedro Leon, Chicago Public Library, BOTY Branch Donald Serio, Chicago Park District, Davis Square Park

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Planning Meeting Participants Maggie Clemons Adriana Ocampo Donald Serio Carmen Martinez Lala Bolander Veronica Smith Lannon Broughton Manuel Valdovinos Luis Bermudez Emma Granados Salvador Cerna Rosalba Granados Berto Aguayo Katrina Adams Jose Munoz Claudia Alvidrez David Gonzalez Leslie Taylor Bruce Wellems Ana Gantes Jonathan Pereira Raquel Chavez Jose Chavez Hortensia Elias Enrique Castillo Francisca Mendoza Jim Gonska Juana Martinez Linda Coronado Jisela Santoyo Anna Frederick Reina Perez Gigi Nevarez Lina B. Martinez Hazel Loden Rene Rodriguez Connie Dyer Fabian Garcia Paul Schissler Veronica Ortega Jose Diaz Berto Aguayo Norma Manzo Ivonne Gomez Carolina Santoyo Ahniya Clark Alicia O. Garcia Quin Middleton Rosanna Solis Garcia Antwan Williams Jose Garcia Roy Jennings Carmen Garcia Sharon King Maria Robles Daniel Dow Shay Knox Manuel Moyado Maria Raygoza Samuel Woods Rosa Martinez Lester Fletcher Lucina Martinez Karianna Kearns

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Maria Hernandez Federico Orozco Maria Orozco Elizabeth Del Angel Veronica Escareno Elizabeth Gonzalez Jose Alonso Monica Reynoso James McAndrew Claudia Lule Charmayne Collier Thomas McNulty Rosario Badillo LaTasha Sanders Ed Vogel Francisco Diaz Theresa Mah Enrique Aguilar Valentina Aguilar Soledad Rizo Sandra Traback Pedro Jimenez Mary Kuhn Veronica Gonzalez Alfredo Aviles Gilbert Cardoso Ren Thomas Cima Alejandra Sanchez Marina Alonso Markaysa Lipscomb Priscila Gonzalez Emilio Carrasquillo

Joseph Kelly Janice Schuld Phillip Lopez Ida Ridley Carmen Flores Salvador Benitez Ann Jenkins Joi McCowan Sr. Angie Kolacinski Rachel Bhagwat Gerarro Zavala Mary Gutierrez Filemon Gutierrez Paul Brozek Janet Green Maxine Horton Tenika Walker Dinella Broadnax Harvey Gaitan Anna Gaitan Elvis Ortega Noel Cardona Rudy Esteban Maria Guzman Veronica Gallegos Maria Diaz Rene Cardoso Ana M Segoviano Gabriela Robles Roszaine Gillespie Ramon Flores Michelle Vasquez

Eric Osorio Lily Celso Irene Lopez Hallie Trauger Alicia Dominguez Chris Patterson Jose Munoz Jesse Iniguez Marlon Price Godwin Akpan Lucia Soto Bertha Castaneda Bertha Flores-Ramirez Katlynn Bush

Table of Contents 2 Context and Goals 5 6 7 8

Introduction Community Context Planning Process Vision Statement

9 11 12 14

Community Profile History and Current State Demographics Land Use and Zoning

17 19 27 35 45 55 67 77

Recommendations Education Economic Development and Employment Health and Wellbeing Youth, Safety, and Recreation Housing and Beautification Civic Engagement and Community Relations Arts and Culture

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Context Back of the Yards began as a neighborhood primarily housing employees of the Union Stockyards which opened in 1865 and quickly grew into one of the largest meat processing locations in the world. At its peak in the 1920s it was known as the “hog butcher of the world”. The closure of the stockyards in 1971 due to changes in technology and the subsequent decentralization of the meatpacking industry led to a steady decline of the neighborhood. Despite these changes, the neighborhood has become an entry point for Latino immigrants, and a vibrant community has developed surrounding the 47th Street commercial corridor. In May 2016, Great Cities Institute was approached by the Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council and the 47th Street Special Service Area #10 (SSA) to develop a plan to strengthen the commercial corridor as a backbone of the community. However, it quickly became apparent, through the input of community stakeholders, that there was a need to address larger issues in the community. The planning process was expanded to include all aspects of a neighborhood plan that would address education; economic development and employment; health and wellbeing; youth, safety, and recreation; housing and beautification; civic engagement and community relations; and arts and culture. This plan was developed through a larger planning committee made up of stakeholders, and subcommittees formed around each issue area listed above. The process was a “bottomup” approach that involved the input of many community residents and stakeholders.

Community visioning ideas. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2017.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Plan Goals

Education

Economic Development and Employment

Health and Wellbeing

We will expand educational opportunities for all youth in our community and help them to achieve their goals for the future while providing a positive and engaging platform for personal development during their most formative years.

We will connect local businesses to the resources they need to expand and prosper, train a skilled and competitive workforce, and improve quality of life through more inviting and thriving commercial corridors.

We will support our residents by ensuring that they have access to vital medical and mental healthcare services, while working to create a healthy neighborhood with ample green space and reduced violence.

Back of the Yards Coffee Co. Roastery and Coffee House. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2018.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Plan Goals

Youth, Safety, and Recreation

Housing and Beautification

We will provide young people and families with the opportunities to thrive through programs and services that engage, support, and inspire, as well as safe and fun spaces that will contribute to the character of the neighborhood.

We will support the creation of stronger, more livable neighborhoods by providing resources to homeowners, tenants, and renters, working to renovate vacant properties and utilize vacant spaces, and increasing efforts to beautify our neighborhoods and streets.

Civic Engagement and Community Relations

Arts and Culture

We will strive to unify our neighbors through enhanced outreach efforts and collective initiatives to bolster neighborhood conditions and give residents a voice.

We will create a distinct image for our community through creative and cultural initiatives and encourage the use of the arts as a tool to achieve our other goals and create a sense of community pride and unity.

Holy Cross Church. Source: Eric Allix Rogers, Flickr, 2017.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Back of the Yards Stockyards. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2018.

Introduction

Pershing Rd

Western Ave 43rd St

47th St

Halsted St

Racine Ave

Ashland Ave

Damen Ave

51st St

Loop Garfield Blvd

New City

Community Context Back of the Yards is located within the New City Community Area. The map on the left shows New City (Chicago Community area 61) in red. The neighborhood is located on the southwest side of Chicago and its approximate boundaries are Pershing Road to the north, Garfield Boulevard to the south, Western Avenue to the West, and Halsted Street to the East.

Figure 1: Back of the Yards / New City (Chicago Community Area 61). Source: City of Chicago Data Portal, 2018. Map created by Great Cities Institute.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Planning Process The process for the Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan began as a committee of stakeholders for the 47th Street commercial corridor, but through the community engagement process, it became clear that the plan needed to address many other aspects of the community surrounding the corridor. To produce a plan that reflected community values and priorities, Great Cities Institute (GCI) in collaboration with the Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council engaged residents, businesses, community organizations and other key stakeholders to develop a vision for the future of Back of the Yards.

GCI provided technical assistance with data collection and analysis at the request of subcommittees. In January 2018, GCI presented a draft of the objectives and strategies that had been drafted so far to the planning committee for feedback, and subcommittees continued to work on refining their sections of the plan. A full draft of the plan incorporating subcommittee feedback was presented for planning committee feedback in September 2018. The final plan was released to the community in March 2019 and the general public in April 2019.

The planning process had three main phases: information collection, strategy and action development, and final plan development. Information collection began in July 2016 with the formation of a planning committee of stakeholders from residents and community organizations. This committee developed an outreach plan for the community to engage residents in a visioning meeting held on October 25, 2016. This meeting was attended by 200+ residents and gathered the communities ideas and vision through an exercise. Following the visioning meeting, the ideas were categorized and three smaller meetings were held in different subsections of the neighborhood. At these meetings, ideas were further discussed and refined and residents were asked to vote on key priorities. In February 2017, subcommittees for each category of ideas were formed with members of the large planning committee and a resident serving as co-chairs of each subcommittee. Each subcommittee invited residents to join and organized their own meetings. All of the input collected from stakeholders was organized and distributed to the relevant committee. These committees took the ideas collected from community members and developed them into objectives and strategies for action. Many of the subcommittees performed additional community outreach to gain more input on the strategies.

Back of the Yards Community Visioning Meeting. Source: Great Cities Insititute, 2017.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Our vision is to unite Back of the Yards residents and invite them to collaborate to make progress toward a healthier, safer, and more livable neighborhood. We will also foster a strong and resilient community which supports the families, individuals, and businesses that make the neighborhood unique. Boy in Back of the Yards. Source: Heather Phillips, Flickr.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Union Stock Yards in 1947, with the Armour & Co. meatpacking plant in the background. Source: Dave Hoekstra.

Community Profile

New City Community Area Pershing Rd

Western Ave 43rd St

47th St

Halsted St

Racine Ave

Ashland Ave

Damen Ave

51st St

Garfield Blvd

Figure 2: Map of New City. Source: City of Chicago Data Portal, 2018. Map Created by Great Cities Institute.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

History and Current State The Back of the Yards neighborhood developed along with the meatpacking industry, which was located largely in the New City area due to its expansive railroad connections. The Union Stock Yards were developed in 1865, quickly followed by the advent of the refrigerated rail-car in 1880. Both of these developments drove employment in the neighborhood, attracting Irish, German, and Czech immigrant families between the 1860’s and 1880’s. By the early 1900’s, the neighborhood was largely populated by Polish, Lithuanian, and Slovak working-class families, with Mexican immigrants settling in Back of the Yards in small numbers by the 1920’s. By the 1970’s, Back of the Yards had become predominantly Latino and had also attracted smaller numbers of African-American families.

The Union Stock Yards began to decline following World War II, due to the rise of the trucking industry and advanced refrigeration techniques which allowed livestock to be slaughtered much closer to where it is farmed. The yards formally closed in 1971, although smaller meat-packers and food distribution businesses remained. Today, the Stockyard Industrial Park is still active, with a range of food processing and distribution businesses, among others. The largest employers of neighborhood residents are the service, manufacturing, transportation, and administrative sectors. However, the decline of the meatpacking industry and the manufacturing sector overall have negatively impacted the local economy of the neighborhood. Population has declined by over 15,000 individuals since 1970, and the 2016 unemployment rate of 17.6% greatly exceeded the citywide average of 5.3%. Back of the Yards residents and organizations remain committed to improving their neighborhood. As early as the 1940’s, Back of the Yards had a very strong community organizing presence, notably through the Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council (BYNC). The BYNC collaborated extensively with existing neighborhood organizations to unite the community around labor practices, homeownership expansion, economic development, and increased employment opportunities. BYNC’s notable accomplishments include assisting in the rehabilitation of 90% of the neighborhood’s housing stock in the 1950’s and 60’s, and driving development of the Damen Yards shopping plaza in 1990. Today, BYNC collaborates with numerous other community organizations in the neighborhood to provide social and cultural activities, youth and adult education programs, and community services, and to drive economic development and job creation.

The entrance gate to the Union Stock Yards, designed by notable Chicago architects Burnham & Root, 1879. Source: NPR, courtesy of Dominic A. Pacyga/University of Chicago Press.

(Sources: Chicago Public Library, ESRI, LISC Chicago, The Newberry Library, United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, University of Chicago Press.)

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Demographics

90,000

Population

70,000

80,000

The total population of Back of the Yards declined by approximately half between 1940 (81,353) and 2010 (44,377). However, population is projected to climb to 51,674 by 2020. (See Chart 1).

81,353

76,532 67,428 60,728

60,000

55,860

51,674

51,721 44,377

40,000

Back of the Yards is 50.2% female and 49.8% male, with the bulk (62.1%) of residents between the age of 18 and 64 years. Children under the age of 18 account for 30.3% of the population. Residents over the age of 65 account for the remaining 7.7%. (See Chart 2).

30,000 20,000 10,000 0 1940

2015 data show that Latino or Hispanic individuals accounted for 61.4% of the population. Black individuals accounted for 23.6% and White individuals accounted for 12.2%. Asians, American Indians / Alaska Natives, those who are two or more races, and those who identify as Other accounted for 1.9%, 0.6%, 0.1%, and 0.1%, respectively. (See Chart 3).

1950

1960

1970

1980

1990

2000

2010

2020

85+

101 157

80-84

160

396

65-69

Age Range

1,211

50-54

1,200

45-49

1,207 1,111 1,153

1,512

30-34

1,229

1,551

1,437 1,478

1,616

20-24

0-4

926

1,184

35-39

5-9

925

1,312

40-44

10-14

607

730

55-59

15-19

444

712

679

60-64

25-29

263

310

70-74

Of Back of the Yards residents that are 25 or older, 41.9% have completed high school (compared to 82.3% citywide), 5.2% of residents have a Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree (compared to the citywide average of 21.2%), and 2.5% of residents have a Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or professional degree (compared to 14.3% citywide). (See Chart 4).

1,577

1,497 1,762

1,447

1,653

1,453 1,603

1,725 1,389

1,929

Number of People

Male

Female

Chart 2: Back of the Yards population by gender and age cohorts. Source: 2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

2030

Chart 1: Back of the Yards population, 1940-2010, with 2020 projection. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Connect to Cook/ESRI Business Analyst.

75-79

29% of homes in Back of the Yards are owner-occupied, while 47% are occupied by renters. 5% of homes are vacant - for rent, 4% are vacant - for sale, and 15% are unoccupied.

53,226

50,000

2.6% 2.6% 0.1% 0.1%

Hispanic Hispanic or Latino or Latino

22.3% 22.3%

0.7% 0.7%

White White (Non-Latino) (Non-Latino)

29%

Black Black (Non-Latino) (Non-Latino)

61.9% 61.9%

12.4% 12.4%

Chart 3: Back of the Yards population by race and ethnicity. Source: 2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. 5%

Renter Occupied Vacant for Rent

American American Indian Indian andand Alaska Alaska Native Native (Alone) (Alone) Asian Asian (Non-Latino) (Non-Latino) Two Two or More or More Races Races (Alone) (Alone)

Owner Occupied

12%

Vacant for Sale Only 49%

Other Vacant

Chart 5: Back of the Yards housing unit tenure. Source: 2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates.

Less Than High School

29%

18%

High School Graduate (includes equivalency) Some college Bachelor's degree

46%

Gratuate or Professional Degree

Chart 4: Back of the Yards population by educational attainment. Source: 2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Zoning

Figure 3: Zoning map of New City. Source: City of Chicago Department of Planning and Development, 2015. Map Created by Great Cities Institute.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Community Profile

Land Use

Figure 4: Land use map of New City. Source: CMAP 2013 Land Use Data. Map Created by Great Cities Institute.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Recommendations This section draws directly from resident vision ideas to propose goals and objectives to improve the Back of the Yards community. Case studies and example programs are interspersed throughout the objectives sections to serve as inspiration for actions and programs in Back of the Yards. Implementation charts include a detailed list of suggested strategies for the achievement of the objectives. They identify community organizations and stakeholders that will be responsible for the implementation of objectives.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Goals

outline the overarching vision of what the plan should work to achieve.

Objectives

outline the specific interventions needed to reach these goals.

Case studies

outline similar strategies and example programs that have been implemented with success in Chicago and in other cities.

Education

Back of the Yards Mural. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2018.

Recommendations

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Back of the Yards College Prep. Source: STL Architects, 2013.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Education We will expand educational opportunities for all youth in our community and help them to achieve their goals for the future, while providing a positive and engaging platform for personal development during their most formative years. There are eight public elementary schools within the Back of the Yards community. According to the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), over 4600 students are enrolled within these schools. All of the elementary schools have achieved various levels of academic achievement and demonstrated school improvement. (Note: Chicago Public Schools students do have school choice to attend a school outside of their neighborhood; data reported are not strictly representative of Back of the Yards students.) Chicago Public Schools has a rating system that combines data, including but not limited to, attendance, academic achievement, and student-teacher perception of the school. For the 2017 school year the elementary schools achieved the following ratings:

Chavez: Level 1+ Fulton: Level 1 Hedges: Level 1 Libby: Level 2+

Daley Academy: Level 2+ Hamline: Level 2 Lara: Level 1 Seward: Level 1

Four high schools serve over 1600 youth (ISBE data). Each school has a different focus to serve the needs of the students. The Back of the Yards College Preparatory has an International Baccalaureate focus, is a Level 1+ school, and has a 91.3% graduation rate which is almost 20% above the CPS average. Seventy-one students are enrolled in AP level courses and 52% are enrolled in IB courses. 92.9% of the students received college acceptance letters. The Peace and Education Accelerated High School serves youth between the ages of 15 to 21 who have dropped out of a traditional high school setting. This is a Level 1+ school. More than 1,000 youth have received diplomas since the school began in 1998. Richards Career Academy has an award winning culinary arts program and is a Level 2 school with a 56.9% graduation rate with 50.7% of the graduates accepted into college. Thirty-seven students are enrolled in AP level courses. Tilden Career Academy has a career focus and is a Level 2 school with a 50% graduation rate with 37.3% of the graduates accepted into college. Nine students are enrolled in AP level courses. (Source: Chicago Public Schools, 2017 data.) These data indicate the need to expand curriculum and counseling to offer a larger range of educational opportunities and to prepare students for college and careers.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

School Locations Pershing Rd

Western Ave

1 2 3 4 43rd St

5 6 7

8 47th St

Halsted St

Racine Ave

Ashland Ave

Damen Ave

11 12

51st St

4 Garfield Blvd

Figure 5: Schools in New City. Source: Great Cities Institute Asset Mapping. Map created by Great Cities Institute.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Elementary Schools Chavez Fulton Hedges Libby Daley Academy Hamline Lara Seward High Schools BOTY College Prep Peace and Education Accelerated High School Richards Career Academy Second Chance High School Tilden High School

Education Education

Resident Vision Ideas • Implement STEM programs in every community and school • Develop programming to address community challenges, prevent young people from joining gangs, and provide emotional education for young people, as well as for working parents • Prepare students for college education, and financially assist them regardless of immigration status • Increase the comfort level of students and their families when applying to college and financial assistance regardless of immigration status

30% of the population is under the age of 18 Source: 2012-2016 American Community Survey Estimates.

8 public Elementary Schools, 5 High Schools, 6,200 students total Source: Illinois State Board of Education.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Objectives Objective 1

Objective 2

Case Study:

Work with schools to expand Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) programs, Advanced Placement and other course offerings to prepare students for college and careers.

Develop programming to address community challenges such as the prevention of gang involvement.

After School Matters

Based on resident feedback, schools in the Back of the Yards community need to expand course offerings that prepare young people for higher education, successful careers, and effective interpersonal relationships. These goals could be accomplished by implementing Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) frameworks in the classroom; increasing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) course offerings; and counseling students on their college and career aspirations.

Cesar Chavez Multicultural Academic Center. Source: Hedrich Blessing, Steve Hall, Ross Barney Architects.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

After school programs help to engage youth, provide them with a supportive environment, and introduce them to mentors. When children and teens enjoy their involvement in after school programs, they are less likely to become affiliated with gangs or be on the streets during the peak hours of gang activity. These programs can also teach student skills that will help them develop into productive and well-rounded members of the Back of the Yards community.

After School Matters (ASM) is a Chicago-wide educational and apprenticeship program for teens, focused on the arts, technology, communications, sports, and science. Young people can spend after-school or summer hours learning as an apprentice, intern, or assistant at a range of Chicago organizations, with oversight from supportive counselors. Stipends lower barriers to entry, and youth participation develops relevant job readiness, problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal awareness skills. (Source: After School Matters.)

Education

Objectives Objective 3

Objective 4

Case Study:

Expand social-emotional learning (SEL) opportunities for young people and their working parents.

Increase the comfort level of students and their families relative to applying to college and financial assistance regardless of immigration status.

City Colleges of Chicago Star Scholarship

Social-Emotional Learning techniques have been proven to teach students how to understand and manage their emotions, show empathy and understanding for others, achieve positive goals, and build healthy relationships. Students whose curriculum encompasses SEL report higher engagement with their school, are more involved in their communities, and express ambition for posthigh school education and careers. SEL also teaches vital emotion-regulation, conflict management, and relationship-building skills.

In addition to coursework that will help students succeed in college or a career, they often need guidance and assistance in applying to college, pursuing job opportunities, or finding financial resources to cover educational costs. Expanding college and careers counseling at Back of the Yards high schools or at community centers would better prepare students for their future. Additionally, expanding educational counseling and financial assistance resources for undocumented students and their families is of critical importance, because these students often face difficulties in securing educational funding. Therefore, counselors should actively try to connect all students to resources like the City Colleges of Chicago Star Scholarship to ensure that all students can pursue educational and career goals.

The City Colleges of Chicago system offers the Star Scholarship annually to students graduating from a City of Chicago high school (either CPS or charter) with at least a 3.0 GPA, testing completionready in English and mathematics, and pursuing higher education at a City College campus. The scholarship covers tuition, fees, books, and other educational costs for students pursuing an eligible City Colleges academic program. As a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Last Dollarâ&#x20AC;? scholarship, it is only applied after a student has accepted all other eligible federal, state, and local aid. This makes it particularly beneficial to undocumented students. Undocumented students are eligible for scholarship assistance; all students applying must provide verification of a completed FAFSA or Certification of Ineligibility to File for Financial Aid form. (Source: City Colleges of Chicago.)

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Education Implementation Actions Work with schools to expand Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Objective 1

(STEM) programs, Advanced Placement and other course offerings to prepare students for college and careers.

Lead Organization(s)

Partnering Organization(s)

a. Encourage parents of school-age children who attend a CPS school to run for a Local School Council (LSC) at their childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s school. LSCs have a voice relative to school focus, improvement and budgets. b. Expand partnerships between and among schools and community businesses/organizations to bring to light career opportunities. Strategies

c. Expand dual credit opportunities between the Back of the Yards high schools and the elementary school students for the acquisition of credit. d. Expand dual credit opportunities between the Back of the Yards high schools and colleges/ universities for the acquisition of credit.

Chavez Elementary, Lara Elementary, Seward Elementary, Back of the Yards College Prep

CPS, BYNC, Peace & Education Coalition

e. Initiate conversations between and among high schools regarding shared resources, such as students traveling to different schools to acquire credit in career subject areas.

Objective 2

Develop programming to address community challenges such as the prevention of gang involvement. a. Encourage schools and community residents to participate in training relative to restorative justice.

Strategies

b. Encourage schools to use restorative justice practices such as peace circles as a tool for disciplinary practices. c. Encourage parents to attend parent training opportunities such as Padres Ayudando Padres. d. Continue participation in partnerships with local organizations promoting safe community practices and shared resources.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Lead Organization(s) Chavez Elementary, Lara Elementary, Seward Elementary, Back of the Yards College Prep

Partnering Organization(s)

CPS, BYNC, Peace & Education Coalition

Objective 3

Expand social-emotional learning (SEL) opportunities for young people and their working parents. a. Encourage schools and community organizations to adopt a Trauma Informed pedagogy which is a framework of thinking and interventions that are directed by an understanding of the neurological, biological, psychological, and social effects trauma has on an individual.

Strategies

b. Increase availability for follow-up care by local organizations within the community through partnerships with the schools. c. Encourage parents to attend parent training opportunities such as Padres Ayudando Padres. d. Lobby CPS to consider additional shared social service providers between and among the schools.

Objective 4

Increase comfort level of students and their families relative to applying to college and financial assistance regardless of immigration status. a. Provide informational sessions for parents of middle school students and high school students regarding preparation and consideration regarding continuing educational opportunities.

Strategies

b. Secure resources to provide the opportunity for parents and their students to visit college campuses. c. Provide community wide financial literacy classes to prepare families and help families, including undocumented youth, find the financial resources for college and/or career training. d. Encourage community-based organizations and businesses to sponsor a college and career fair for the community.

Lead Organization(s) Chavez Elementary, Lara Elementary, Seward Elementary, Back of the Yards College Prep

Partnering Organization(s)

Education

Education Implementation Actions

CPS, BYNC, Peace & Education Coalition

Partnering Organization(s)

CPS, BYNC, Peace & Education Coalition

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

The Plant. Source: Great Cities Institute 2018.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Economic Development & Employment We will connect local businesses to the resources they need to expand and prosper, train a skilled and competitive workforce, and improve quality of life through more inviting and thriving commercial corridors. According to the 2016 American Community Survey (ACS), the unemployment rate for the Back of the Yards (New City) community is 20%. Some of the economic goals from the community visioning sessions reflected the need for expanding employment opportunities and workforce training programs for youth and adults alike. Efforts focused on economic development help to create jobs, retain and expand businesses, increase the tax base, and ultimately lead to an improved quality of life. Community members want to leverage 47th street as a commercial corridor that expands entrepreneurial opportunities for small and minority-owned businesses. Back of the Yardsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; vibrant local economy is anchored by the Stockyards Industrial Corridor (Special Service Area #13), one of the largest industrial corridors in the

city by both area and number of employees. Although manufacturing consists of 9% of all businesses in Back of the Yards, it employs almost 30% of all employees in the area. Wholesale trade and retail trade round up the top three largest employment sectors in the community. Existing firms and future employers can play a role in connecting living wage employment and workforce development opportunities to local residents, especially those without a college education. The 47th Street and Ashland Avenue commercial strips (Special Service Area #10) are hubs for economic activity with many businesses locally owned. Allowing local businesses to grow and entrepreneurship to flourish will help to stabilize and enhance the Back of the Yards economic circumstances for its residents and stakeholders. Both of these corridors are eligible for Chicagoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Neighborhood Opportunity Fund, which means that business and property owners can apply for grants that will pay for development or rehabilitation projects (See Figure 8). There are eight Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts in the New City Community Area (Figure 6). The TIF program in Chicago is a tool meant to promote public and private investment in areas that exhibit excessive vacancies, inadequate utilities, lack of community planning, dilapidation, or any other blighting factor. The current property tax amount generated is set as a base and any property taxes generated from an increase in property values can be used by the TIF district to fund redevelopment projects. Figure X on the following page shows these TIF districts and can be used to strategically plan redevelopment projects throughout the Back of the Yards Community. The strategies that follow will help bridge the poverty gap and connect residents to meaningful employment for the Back of the Yards population. They also focus on generating community wealth by encouraging business ownership and reinforcing relationships between organizations and programs that serve to promote entrepreneurship, local businesses, beautify commercial corridors, and develop the local workforce.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Economic Development Maps

Figure 7: Special Service Areas (SSA) SSA #10 - Back of the Yards SSA #13 - Stockyards

Figure 6: Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts Archer/Western TIF 35th/Halsted Stockyards Annex Stockyards Southeast Quadrant 47th/Halsted 47th/Ashland 63rd/Ashland Englewood Neighborhood

1 28

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council Office

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Figure 8: Neighborhood Opportunity Corridors Eligible Commercial Corridors Priority Investment Corridors

Source: City of Chicago Data Portal 2018. Maps Created by Great Citites Institute.

Economic Development & and Employment Employment

Resident Vision Ideas • • • • • • • •

Provide youth with job opportunities Increase number of jobs in the community Offer free job training for adults Increase economic development for small and minorityowned businesses Utilize Ashland Ave. railroad yard south of Pershing Road and the central manufacturing district to create more job opportunities Plan a Small Business Day (on 47th St.) to encourage people to shop within the community Increase job opportunities Provide new business grants for people that live in the community

Fiesta Back of the Yards. Source: Sonya Eldridge.

8,763 manufacturing jobs in 1970 24,436 employed in 1970 1,849 manufacturing jobs in 2015 14,832 employed in 2015 Stockyards Industrial Corridor anchors BOTY economy providing 30% of all employees in the community area Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ESRI Business Analyst

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Objectives Objective 1

Objective 2

Objective 3

Enhance the aesthetic and physical character of Back of the Yardsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; main commercial corridors (47th Street and Ashland Avenue) and develop a comprehensive branding strategy to draw in residents and visitors to the neighborhoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commercial core.

Attract new and diverse businesses which will offer a wider range of goods and services and will have a positive impact on community development and wellbeing.

Develop strong relationships with city and county workforce development agencies (both public and private) to increase job training program offerings in the neighborhood and strengthen the skills of local job seekers.

Pedestrian experience is improved through the implementation of continuous streetscape, high levels of window transparency, entrances to shops placed on sidewalks, and parking located behind buildings with the elimination of unnecessary curb cuts and drive-thrus. Comprehensive and creative branding can be developed with the help of local artists and can add to the corridorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; identity.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Although Back of the Yards has a relatively stable occupancy rate within its commercial corridors, there is still room to attract businesses that provide goods and services that are not currently found in Back of the Yards. Two notable burgeoning businesses are Rumi Spice and Back of the Yards Coffeehouse. On June 1, 2018, they were recognized in the top ten FedEx Small Business Grant contest winning the grand prize of $25,000 and $7,500 in FedEx Office print and business services and the bronze prize of $7,500 and $1,000 in FedEx Office print and business services respectively.

Developing a direct line of communication between employers, workforce development agencies, and Back of the Yards residents will increase access to more wellpaying jobs throughout the region and enhance the tax base locally. Back of the Yards leadership can also facilitate a relationship between local high schools, workforce agencies, and employers to ensure the next generation is worker-ready.

Case Study:

Objective 4

Case Study:

City Colleges’ Short-Term Credit Programs and Career and Technical Education (CTE) Certificate Programs

Connect Back of the Yards’ existing and aspiring entrepreneurs to training, marketing, resource opportunities, and each other to help grow their businesses.

Advancing the Development of Minority Entrepreneurship (ADME)

In their CTE program, the City Colleges of Chicago system offers a range of certification programs to prepare students for high-demand employment areas including manufacturing, health sciences, information technology, and human services. Students may choose between hundreds of courses offered at City Colleges campuses per semester, and can pursue basic or advanced certification or Associate’s Degrees. City Colleges also offers a variety of short-term credit programs which allow students to pursue industry-specific knowledge and certifications, such as welding, EMT certification, or CDL licensure. Additionally, City Colleges offers GED courses, English as a Second Language courses, and other continuing education opportunities for adult learners.

Encouraging a healthy entrepreneurship environment will help strengthen the diversity of the Back of the Yards’ commercial corridors. Startups and current businesses alike can benefit from additional support and resources to work towards maximizing their potential. Currently, the Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council’s Neighborhood Business Development Center assists business owners with obtaining sources of funding, permit applications, site selection, marketing assistance, networking opportunities, and more.

The ADME is a community investment program administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce to strengthen Illinois’ start-up and small business ecosystem by tapping into the potential of minority business owners and entrepreneurs. The program is in its first year with a geographic focus in Peoria, Rockford and Chicago with the goal of expanding statewide.

Economic Development and Employment

Objectives

(Source: Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.)

(Source: City Colleges of Chicago.)

Rainbow Clothing Store. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2018.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Economic Development and Employment Implementation Actions Objective 1

Enhance the aesthetic and physical character of Back of the Yards’ main commercial corridors (47th Street and Ashland Avenue) and develop a comprehensive branding strategy to draw in residents and visitors to the neighborhood’s commercial core.

Lead Organization(s)

Partnering Organization(s)

a. Develop a place-making and identity campaign for beautification of commercial corridors in Back of the Yards. b. Work with property owners and local artists to temporarily re-purpose/re-activate vacant storefronts to attract interested tenants.

Strategies

c. Work in collaboration with business owners, residents and Special Service Area 10 to brainstorm projects and overall theme. d. Identify best practices for developing a consistent and uniform corridor identity.

BYNC, Matanky Realty, The Plant Chicago

e. Identify additional resources (i.e. grants, TIF, SSA, Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) and aldermanic menu money) to support development of branding campaign projects and façade improvement/business renovation projects to improve commercial spaces.

Objective 2

Attract new and diverse businesses which will offer a wider range of goods and services.

Lead Organization(s)

BYNC, Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection, Chicago Department of Planning and Development, SSA 10, Area Businesses, Elected Officials, Commercial Property Owners

Partnering Organization(s)

a. Identify strongest nodes in BOTY commercial corridors to build upon. b. Develop temporary beautification projects geared toward activation and repurposing of vacant spaces. Strategies

c. Focus efforts on attracting businesses offering goods and services that don’t currently exist or are limited in Back of the Yards using retail scan/leakage and surplus data. d. Identify aspiring entrepreneurs in the area to assist with start-up activities. e. Develop new relationships with developers, commercial property owners and successful business owners looking to improve existing properties for expansion and attraction of new and existing businesses.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

BYNC, Matanky Realty, The Plant Chicago

BYNC, Local Businesses, Developers, Real Estate Agents, Property Owners, Local Parishes and Organizations

Objective 3

Develop strong relationships with city and county workforce development agencies (both public and private) to increase job training program Lead offerings in the neighborhood and strengthen the skills of local job seekers. Organization(s) a. Facilitate relationships between local high schools and workforce agencies to offer job training programs at schools (afterschool programs). b. Develop a streamlined communication channel between employers and local agencies to create a jobs pipeline.

Strategies

c. Form connections with workforce agencies citywide and with local employers to hire, train and invest in Back of the Yardsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; residents.

BYNC, Matanky Realty, The Plant Chicago

d. Connect residents to more local, living wage jobs (i.e. Stockyards).

Objective 4

Connect Back of the Yardsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; existing and aspiring entrepreneurs to training, marketing, resource opportunities, and each other to help grow their businesses.

Lead Organization(s)

a. Partner with city, state and county leaders in small business development to offer ongoing training and support for small business owners. b. Provide businesses with ongoing technical assistance support for technology upgrades and grant applications. Strategies

c. Facilitate connections between workforce development agencies to offer certifications to employers for free or at low-cost/ Help businesses navigate city, state, county and federally-funded programs for resources. d. Connect local small business owners to each other through business to business networking events. e. Increase access to capital for area small businesses through the development of relationships with traditional and nonprofit lenders.

BYNC, Matanky Realty, The Plant Chicago

Partnering Organization(s) BYNC, Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, National Latino Education Institute, City Colleges of Chicago, local high schools, City of Chicago Department of Family and Support Services, Illinois Department of Employment Security local parishes and organizations.

Economic Development and Employment

Economic Development and Employment Implementation Actions

Partnering Organization(s)

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council, local businesses, Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, City of Chicago Business Affairs and Consumer Protection, City of Chicago Department of Planning and Development

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Cornell Square Park. Source: The Gate News, 2011.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Health & Wellbeing We will support our residents by ensuring that they have access to vital medical and mental healthcare services, while working to create a healthy neighborhood with ample green space and reduced violence.

of the impact, affecting their cognitive, emotional and physical development. Incarceration and undocumented status also contribute to trauma and stress in Back of the Yards and similar port-of-entry communities. The recommendations that follow are aimed at making health resources more available to the community’s struggling population, address causes of chronic stress and trauma, and improve the quality of life for all residents.

After the closure of several health clinics in the community, many residents have difficulty accessing vital healthcare services. Residents surveyed expressed the specific need for expanded mental health services, as well as assistance with health insurance inquiries and a community-wide health needs assessment. This sentiment was directly expressed in the community visioning sessions where residents listed improving mental and physical health and increasing resident access to healthcare services as top priorities for the community. The Chicago Health Atlas lists the Back of the Yards (Newcity) community as a “very low” child opportunity area and particularly vulnerable to issues related to access to health insurance, violent crime, and childhood poverty. Systemic pressures of poverty can create an environment of chronic stress and trauma for both children and adults alike. As a result, youth receive the brunt Produce at Plant Chicago’s Farmers Market at The Plant. Source: Casey Cora for DNAinfo, 2015.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Health Resources - New City and Surrounding Areas I-90

GENERAL HEALTH

9 31st 15

35th

49 11

Pershing

8 30

22 39 38

43rd

27 40 41

45 18

5 50

1 10 7

23 31 6

47th

19 24 44 42 29

51st

4 2

Garfield

59th 28

Miles

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Halsted

Racine

Ashland

.25

Western

Kedzie

Damen

California

63rd

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33

Facility 47th St Pharmacy Access Ashland Family Health Center Access Cabrini Family Health Center Access Center for Healthy Living Access Kedzie Family Health Center America's Best Eyecare Arteaga Family Medical Center Ashley's Quality Care Bridgeport Free Clinic Centro Medico Center Chicago Department of Health Chicago Family Health Center Children's Medical Center Clinica De Los Pies 47 Concentra Urgent Care Davis Health & Wellness Center Englewood Neighborhood Health Clinic Friend Family Health Center Friend Family Health Center Grupo Nueva Imagen Alcohol IMAN Community Health Center James Fairbairn, MD Mile Square Health Center Neil Ashland Medical Center Oak Street Health Oak Street Health - Bronzeville Partners in Health Family Clinic Planned Parenthood Port Ministries Free Clinic Saint Anthony Community Clinic Sinai Community Institute Sinai Health System Victory Outreach Recovery Home

Address 1837 W 47th St 5159 S Ashland Ave 3450 S Archer Ave 5139 S Ashland Ave 3229 W 47th Pl 1400 W 47th St 1845 W 47th St 610 W Root St 3001 S Lowe Ave 1824 W 47th St 300 W Pershing Rd 3223 W 63rd St 1900 W 47th St 1712 W 47th St 3145 S Ashland Ave 3050 W 39th Pl 641 W 63rd St 2436 W 47th St 4802 S Ashland Ave 2257 W 47th St 2744 W 63rd St 634 W 43rd St 4630 S Bishop St 4829 S Ashland Ave 4327 S Archer Ave 4318 S State St 4317 S Ashland Ave 6059 S Ashland Ave 5013 S Hermitage Ave 4177 S Archer Ave 4636 S Bishop St 6224 S Ashland Ave 5154 S Paulina St

DENTAL HEALTH 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42

All Brite Dental Advent Dental Holy Cross Family Dental Sonrisa Family Dental Precision Dental Care Metrosmiles Studio Dental Dental Experts Ashland Medical Center

1858 W 35th St 3443 S Halsted St 1841 W 47th St 3450 S Archer Ave 4317 S Ashland Ave 4322 S Ashland Ave 4516 S Damen Ave 4642 S Damen Ave 4829 S Ashland Ave

MENTAL HEALTH 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50

Camino y Esperanza NFP Friend Family Health Center Friend Family Health Center Silvia Avila Psychotherapy Access Cabrini Family Health Center Access Ashland Family Health Center Chicago Department of Health Access Kedzie Family Health Center

1638 W 38th St 4802 S Ashland Ave 2436 W 47th St 1200 W 35th St 3450 S Archer Ave 5159 S Ashland Ave 300 W Pershing Rd 3229 W 47th Pl

Figure 9: New City Health Resources. Source: Great Cities Institute Asset Mapping. Map created by Great Cities Institute.

• Open/reopen mental health clinics (specifically, a healthcare-based community center with emphasis on primary care and mental health)

Health & and Wellbeing Wellbeing

Resident Vision Ideas • Develop bigger and better comprehensive health clinics • Ensure that all health programs employ a trauma-informed approach • Conduct community a health needs assessment • Provide assistance with healthcare insurance signup

84 per 100,000 people die from diabetes-related illnesses vs 64.6 per 100,000 people in the city

25% of the BOTY population from 2011-2015 did not have health insurance Source: Healthy Chicago 2.0

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Objectives Objective 1

Case Study:

Expand resident access to vital healthcare services, including primary and specialty care, insurance and billing assistance, and public health education.

West Side Community Health Services (WSCHS), St. Paul, MN

Mile Square Health Center, Chicago, IL

Increasing access to healthcare and resources is a vital step in improving the overall community health of Back of the Yards. Opening a comprehensive community health clinic providing primary, specialty, and mental health care would return needed services to the community. Offering assistance with health insurance sign-up and billing questions would make care more affordable. Having all of these services in one location would minimize costs and allow for greater coordination of care.

West Side Community Health Services was founded by volunteers in 1969 to provide healthcare to Spanish-speaking immigrants, and has since expanded to include “primary, specialty, preventive, urgent care, complementary, pharmacy, dental, OB/GYN, [and] mental health” services. WSCHS has maintained its focus on St. Paul’s immigrant community, but has also expanded services to the homeless, residents of public housing, and adolescents.

Mile Square operates numerous Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) across Chicago, including one clinic in Back of the Yards. The Mile Square clinics offer walk-in primary, specialty, and preventive medical care, and referrals to housing and substance abuse programs, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. (Source: University of Illinois Hospital.)

Fees are based on what patients are able to afford, regardless of insurance status. WSCHS also provides ancillary services such as transportation to and from appointments, assistance with health insurance enrollment, and child care during appointments. WSCHS operates as a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization. In 2014, two-thirds of their funding came from service provision revenue, with one-third coming from donations and grant funding . (Source: WSCHS.) Access Kedzie Family Health Center. Source: Newport Capital Partners.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Objective 2

Objective 3

Objective 4

Build capacity of existing mental health programs through a grassroots approach. Create more “informal” emotional and psychological support systems.

Increase access to green space (parks) and public spaces through safety initiatives to promote social cohesion and knowledge-sharing while addressing behavioral issues associated with a lack of access to nature.

Increase capacity of existing sports and physical activity programs in the neighborhood.

Growing acceptance of mental health needs to be prioritized in order for individuals to cope with the normal stresses of life, improve work productivity, and contribute positively to Back of the Yards. Fostering a dialogue of mental and psychological health will help diminish the stigma and reduce barriers to those seeking treatment.

Richard Louv’s 2005 book, Last Child in the Woods, describes the human cost of children spending less time outdoors resulting in a wide range of behavioral problems. Inspiring youth and adults alike to utilize green space ought to be prioritized to improve physical and mental health and encourage a greater sense of community for Back of the Yards.

Health and Wellbeing

Objectives

Continuing on the themes presented in Objective 3, a similar approach to encourage youth and adults alike to spend more time outside is to improve and expand upon recreational activities in Back of the Yards.

Back of the Yards College Prep sports team. Source: Back of the Yards College Prep, 2018.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Objectives Objective 5

Case Study:

Objective 6

Increase the capacity of local communityserving entities to stem the violence in the community.

Boston Public Health Commissionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Defending Childhood Initiativeâ&#x20AC;?, Boston, MA

Facilitate the development of nutrition and fitness educational programming to improve health outcomes across the generations.

Violence and public safety is a top concern for Back of the Yards residents. Many community organizations are already engaged in efforts to address and mitigate violence. Residents, business owners, and political leadership can collectively play a role in supporting and increasing the capacity of these organizations and the police force to curb violent crime. Objective 4 overlaps with: Youth, Safety, and Recreation Civic Engagement and Community Relations

Violence is a leading cause of death for youth of color in Boston. The trauma can lead to depression, anxiety, anger, and social isolation. The Boston Public Health Commission collaborated with police officers, community healthcare providers, schools, and residents to develop their Defending Childhood Initiative. The Initiative provides: training for healthcare providers on best practices for traumainformed care; training for teachers, parents, and community residents to recognize trauma and provide resources for young people; neighborhood anti-violence programming led by community health clinics; case management and support for gun violence survivors and their families; mentorship and support for youth at risk of committing violence. (Source: Big Cities Health Coalition, Heartland Alliance, National Council for Behavioral Health.)

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

According to the American Diabetes Association, people of Hispanic and Latino origin are at a high risk for developing type 2 diabetes and related cardiometabolic abnormalities. As a majorityLatino community, Back of the Yards is not an exception. In an effort to mitigate exorbant health care costs, diet and nutrition with accompanied physical activity should be prioritized leading to an improved quality of life.

Objective 1

Expand resident access to vital healthcare services, including primary and specialty care, insurance and billing assistance, and public health education.

Lead Organization(s)

a. Open a comprehensive community health clinic to provide needed services and assistance with health insurance sign-up. Strategies

b. Work with the Chicago Department of Public Health to complete a neighborhood-wide community health needs assessment. c. Work with health and human services providers to integrate Trauma Informed Care practices throughout the community.

Objective 2

Build capacity of existing mental health programs through a grassroots approach. Create more informal emotional and psychological support systems. a. Create a behavioral health team to assess community mental health needs.

Strategies

b. Develop trauma-informed mental health training modules for grassroots interventions. c. Incorporate restorative justice practices throughout the neighborhood. d. Ensure neighborhood leaders are trained in trauma-informed practices.

Objective 3

Increase access to green space and public spaces through safety initiatives to promote social cohesion and knowledge-sharing while addressing nature deficit disorder. a. Develop more community gardens in partnership with community organizations, healthcare facilities, schools, and churches.

Strategies

b. Re-activate vacant spaces for pocket parks. c. Mentor and teach residents about nature and foster an interest in gardening and urban farming, which may lead to workforce development possibilities.

Access Community Health Center Network

Lead Organization(s)

Access Community Health Center Network

Lead Organization(s)

Chicago Park District

Partnering Organization(s) BYNC, U.N.I.O.N., Peace & Education Coalition, Legal Assistance Foundation

Health and Wellbeing

Health and Wellbeing Implementation Actions

Partnering Organization(s) BYNC, U.N.I.O.N., Peace & Education Coalition, Legal Assistance Foundation

Partnering Organization(s)

BYNC, U.N.I.O.N., Peace & Education Coalition

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Health and Wellbeing Implementation Actions Objective 4

Increase the capacity of existing sports and physical activity programs in the neighborhood.

Lead Organization(s)

a. Support and grow physical activity programs.

Strategies

b. Work with local schools to develop more after-school programming focused on sports and physical activities. c. Support programs such as UNION Impact Center, BYNC Ballet Folklorico, Holy Cross IHM Marimba Ensemble, Davis Square Soccer League, Open Gym at The Port and St. Michael’s, Lara’s People’s School of Music, and Aztec Dance by helping them receive the resources they need to expand.

Objective 5

Increase the capacity of local community-serving entities to stem the violence in the community. a. Develop collaborative projects that engage community youth and keep them from becoming involved with violent activities.

Strategies

b. Create opportunities for residents to gather in conversation to devise ways of preventing violence in cooperation with community organizations. c. Organize informational violence prevention education forums and events.

Objective 6

Facilitate the development of nutrition and fitness educational programming to improve health outcomes across generations. a. Work with the Chicago Park District and other community institutions to develop culturally relevant health programs.

Strategies

b. Improve bilingual communications to connect more residents to low-cost and free activities and health resources. c. Work with local restaurants and stores to encourage more healthy food offerings.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

CPS, Chicago Park District

Lead Organization(s) Access Community Health Center Network

Lead Organization(s)

Access Community Health Center Network

Partnering Organization(s) BYNC, U.N.I.O.N., Peace & Education Coalition, Access Community Health Center Network

Partnering Organization(s) BYNC, U.N.I.O.N., Peace & Education Coalition, Legal Assistance Foundation

Residents sharing their health and wellbeing concerns at a community event. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2019.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Fiesta Back of the Yards. Source: Adriana Cardona-Maguigad, 2013.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Youth, Safety, & Recreation We will provide young people and families with the opportunities to thrive through programs and services that engage, support, and inspire, as well as safe and fun spaces that will contribute to the character of the neighborhood. Back of the Yards hosts a range of community-building programs and activities for its residents, including Hoops in the Hood, Ballet Folklorico, One Summer Chicago, and English as a Second Language (ESL) courses. In addition to the continuation of these programs, residents expressed a strong desire for the expansion of community recreation options, emphasizing yearlong recreational and community support programming for all ages. Many residents highlighted the need for safe, engaging recreational and leadership opportunities for youth, as well as diverse programming for adults and seniors that could be implemented through the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preexisting assets.

According to the Illinois Collaboration on Youth, Teen REACH participants graduated at a rate of 99.8%, compared to the statewide graduation rate of 86%. After School Matters reports show that 93% of participants graduated and 79% reported gains in leadership, teamwork, and problem solving skills. By expanding youth-oriented programs, teens are exposed to engaging environments and given the tools to help them to become productive, skilled, and healthy individuals. These programs also give youth access to a safe haven during afterschool hours when juvenile crime tends to peak. Community partnerships between the Chicago Park District, neighborhood schools, and Back of the Yards businesses and organizations can be forged to provide recreational programming and workforce development opportunities. In addition to youth engagement, it is critical that all residents have access to recreation, safety, and family services. This begins with increased awareness and utilization of already existing neighborhood resources. Back of the Yards organizations can accomplish this through community outreach, increased social media presence, and the development of online information portals. Resident safety can be enhanced by coordinating crime prevention as a community and by creating peaceful, non-violent spaces throughout the neighborhood. The following strategies focus on increasing access to neighborhood services, recreation opportunities, and safe spaces.

Residents also expressed a need to expand after-school programs such as Teen REACH and After School Matters, which are proven to assist in the development of employability, academic, and leadership skills, while providing a positive recreational and social outlet for teens.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Parks and Community Resources Pershing Rd

Western Ave

1 10

2 43rd St

3 4

7 5

6 47th St

1 Halsted St

Racine Ave

Ashland Ave

Damen Ave

7 8 9

51st St

9 Garfield Blvd

Figure 10: New City Parks and Resources. Source: Great Cities Institute Asset Mapping. Map created by Great Cities Institute.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Youth, Safety, & Recreation Asset Map Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council The Resurrection Project The Plant Cesar Chavez Multicultural Arts Center Precious Blood Ministry Daniel J. Nellum Youth Services Davis Square Park Cornell Square Park Sherman Park Taylor Lauridsen Park

Youth, Safety, and Recreation

Resident Vision Ideas • Develop after school programs to keep kids safe while providing exciting opportunities to every young person • Open more youth services centers for at-risk and high-risk youth • Create a youth community group that teaches leadership skills, sports, art, etc. • Organize more places to serve as “warming centers” other than library • Develop family support groups • Open a community center for adults and youth, offering after school programming, sports leagues, etc. • Open senior recreation centers • Create safe recreational gathering spaces for youth that are open on weekends • Build an indoor swimming pool / sports center • Organize sports activities that include youth • Provide free community gym days that provide an outlet for youth

6 parks 83.3 Acres

28% child obesity rate in BOTY

Firearm-related homicide rate = 25.6 per 100,000 population

Source: CMAP 2015 Community Snapshot

Source: Healthy Chicago 2.0

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Objectives Objective 1

Objective 2

Case Study:

Work with community partners, including the Chicago Park District and local schools, to provide recreational programs and community support to residents of all ages.

Create and build on safe spaces that promote peace and nonviolence.

Sarah’s Circle

Existing Chicago Park District or school-based programming could be expanded to provide youth and adult programming at multiple locations around the community. Ideally, programming would be available in the evening and on weekends; prioritized programs mentioned by residents include youth leadership programs, sports leagues and classes, family support services, and recreation opportunities for seniors. Field houses or school buildings used for community recreation could also serve as “warming centers” in winter and “cooling centers” in summer, to expand this vital service provision to at-risk youth or elderly residents. Because of gang activity, safety is a concern when traveling to all parts of the neighborhood. Therefore, recreational space and programming could be provided at multiple locations, so youth do not need to cross gang boundaries to access recreation.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Fostering a sense of security among community members, particularly among young people, will help to prevent violence and mental health issues throughout the Back of the Yards community. Schools, churches, and community organizations can play a key role in building upon safe spaces by surrounding residents with the people and resources they need to feel supported. By advocating for a youth center in the neighborhood and ensuring that there are trained individuals overseeing these spaces, more teens can reap the benefits of a supportive social environment.

Sarah’s Circle is a non-profit organization with a mission of serving women who are homeless or in need of a safe space. Located in Chicago’s Uptown Community, Sarah’s Circle has provided support for thousands of women since 1979. Today, Sarah’s Circle has a Daytime Support Center open to any woman in need, a 50-bed interim housing (shelter) program for women who are currently homeless, and permanent supportive housing for women who have a disabling condition and have been chronically homeless. Across programs Sarah’s Circle staff use best practices and provide case management and supportive counseling to help women achieve their goals. (Source: Sarah’s Circle)

Objective 3

Objective 4

Objective 5

Enhance awareness of neighborhood services, programming, and resources.

Expand after-school opportunities and programs for youth and families.

Expand workforce development opportunities for young people ages 16 to 24.

Outreach and the circulation of information regarding the services available to Back of the Yards residents will allow community members to takes advantage of the resources available to them. A Back of the Yards mobile application can be created and used as an easily accessible directory that residents can reference. Expanded social media communication and school-organized tours of neighborhood services will help raise awareness of neighborhood assets.

Building off of Objectives 2 and 3, the expansion of after school opportunities will provide a safe haven for youth and teens. Connecting with programs like TEEN REACH and After School Matters will give young people access to safe, fun, and productive environments that are geared toward skill-building and the reinforcement of strong social networks.

Youth employment and workforce development opportunities in Back of the Yards will help young people to develop social, technical, and leadership skills, while simultaneously curbing opportunities for youth to engage in violent activities. As a component of the youth center mentioned in Objective 2, a workforce development hub will provide young people with access to workforce training, mentorship, education completion resources, and employment opportunities.

Youth, Safety, and Recreation

Objectives

Youth, Safety, and Recreation Info Table at Community Event. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2019.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Objectives Objective 6

Case Study:

Advocate for a community-driven approach to safety and crime prevention.

Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy

Boston Community Policing Program, Boston, MA

The central goal of community policing is for the police to build relationships with the community through interactions with local agencies and members of the public, creating partnerships and strategies for reducing crime and disorder. The training of local beat officers, the development of block clubs, and the implementation of restorative justice measures will all contribute to a communitydriven approach to crime prevention and rehabilitation in Back of the Yards.

Since 1993, the CAPS program is a community driven policing strategy that aims to bridge the gap between the police force and the citizens of Chicago. A District Advisory Committee made up of community leaders, business owners, and community activists meets regularly with the District Commander to discuss police district affairs. The program was revitalized and reprogrammed in January 2013. (Source: Chicago Police Department.)

The Boston Police Department has created new programs aimed at direct engagement with residents and increasing accountability and transparency within the Department. Informally, officers are encouraged to engage with youth in sports games and talent shows, visit members of the community on special occassions, and go on neighborhood walks to meet residents. After implementing community policing practices between 2014 and 2015, Bostonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s total crime rate dropped 9%, hitting the lowest crime rates since 2005. The city also saw a 15% decrease in arrests, and homicide numbers per 100,000 people went from 53 to 40. (Sources: Pioneer Institute)

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Youth, Safety, and Recreation

Objectives Case Study: Centre for Justice and Reconciliation, Worldwide The Centre for Justice and Reconciliation promotes the use of restorative justice to rehabilitate offenders through reconciliation with their communities and victims. The Centreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to develop restorative justice in criminal justice systems throughout the world because it has been shown to lower repeat offender rates, reduce costs, and reduce victimsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; trauma. The Centre provides information and resources for those who would like to learn more about restorative justice and their campaigns to reform the criminal justice system to adopt restorative justice approaches in the United States and abroad. (Source: Centre for Restorative Justice and Reconciliation.)

Police Memorial Mural. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2018.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Youth, Safety, and Recreation Implementation Actions Objective 1

Work with community partners, including the Chicago Park District and local schools, to provide recreational programs and community supports to residents of all ages.

Lead Organization(s)

a. Work with the Chicago Park District to expand recreational programming at multiple neighborhood parks and field houses. Strategies

b. Partner with neighborhood schools to provide open gym times for residents.

Chicago Park District, CPS

c. Train mentors to oversee programs and provide additional support to youth if needed.

Objective 2

Strategies

Create and build on safe spaces that promote peace and nonviolence. a. Maximize usage of existing spaces in schools, churches, and community organizations after hours. b. Collectively organize and advocate for a youth center in the neighborhood. c. Train a corps of young leaders that can help oversee these spaces.

Objective 3

Enhance awareness of neighborhood services, programming, and resources.

Lead Organization(s)

BYNC, TRP, U.N.I.O.N., La Casa Norte

Lead Organization(s)

a. Create a Back of the Yards mobile application as a central location of storing and updating information for neighborhood residents. b. Train teen ambassadors to spread awareness about youth programming. Strategies

c. Organize field trips for local high school students to explore neighborhood assets such as nonprofits, agencies, and youth centers. d. Develop a cohesive social media strategy that markets resources, programming, and services to youth and families.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

BYNC, TRP, U.N.I.O.N., La Casa Norte

Partnering Organization(s) BYNC, TRP, CPL, U.N.I.O.N. La Casa Norte, Chicago Police Department

Partnering Organization(s) CPS, CPL, Chicago Park District, Chicago Police Department Partnering Organization(s)

CPS, CPL, Chicago Park District, Chicago Police Department

Objective 4

Strategies

Objective 5

Expand after-school opportunities for youth and families. a. Collectively organize and advocate for TEEN REACH to gain resources for the after-school programming in the community. b. Collectively connect with organizations like After School Matters to expand paid after-school opportunities for youth in the neighborhood.

Expand workforce development opportunities for young people ages 1624. a. Create a Reconnection Hub in the community as a centralized location where young people can gain access to workforce readiness opportunities, education completion resources, and access to employment opportunities.

Strategies

b. Enhance or create outreach tools to engage most disconnected youth. c. Identify local youth-friendly employers to provide youth employment opportunities.

Lead Organization(s)

BYNC, TRP, U.N.I.O.N., La Casa Norte

Lead Organization(s)

BYNC, TRP, U.N.I.O.N., La Casa Norte

d. Partner with local youth-friendly employers to gain a better understanding of the “demand” for local talent and then create the “supply” pipeline of youth in the community.

Objective 6

Advocate for a community-driven approach to safety and crime prevention.

Lead Organization(s)

a. Work with organizations to provide community policing training to local beat officers. b. Encourage and support the development of block clubs. Strategies

c. Encourage walking and bicycling to neighborhood activities. d. Encourage restorative justice approaches to crime and our response to crime. e. Expand protection to victims experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault.

BYNC, TRP, U.N.I.O.N., La Casa Norte

Partnering Organization(s) CPS, CPL, Chicago Park District, Chicago Police Department

Partnering Organization(s)

Youth, Safety, and Recreation

Youth, Safety, and Recreation Implementation Actions

CPS, CPL, Chicago Park District, Chicago Police Department

Partnering Organization(s) CPS, CPL, Chicago Park District, Chicago Police Department

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Houses on Loomis Blvd. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2018.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Housing & Beautification We will support the creation of stronger, more livable neighborhoods by providing resources to homeowners, tenants, and renters, working to renovate vacant properties and utilize vacant spaces, and increasing efforts to beautify our neighborhoods and streets.

Vacant land in neighborhoods often negatively impacts the areas livability. Vacant lots are often associated with fractures between neighbors, and may lead to economic, safety, and health issues in neighborhoods. By reimagining Back of the Yardsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; existing infrastructure, such as the vacant rail viaduct south of 49th Street and vacant lots throughout the neighborhood, residents can enjoy more opportunities for recreation and community gathering. Both homeownership and beautification serve the neighborhood interest. They are both critical in establishing neighborhood pride, sense of ownership, and investment in the prosperity and challenges facing the community. Increasing home ownership in an inclusive manner, while simultaneously enhancing the physical conditions of the neighborhood, will help to stabilize the Back of the Yards community. The strategies that follow will seek to connect more residents to housing assistance, increase property ownership, and improve housing conditions. They will also address the ways in which beautification can enhance neighborhood livability and quality of life.

Lack of economic opportunity and low incomes make homeownership difficult to acquire for Back of the Yard residents. 30% of families live below the poverty level and, on average, median gross rent makes up 33% of household income. The aging pre-war housing stock also presents maintainance and upkeep issues, and building repairs are less common due to budgetary constraints. Back of the Yards residents have also prioritized the beautification of their neighborhood through the enhancement of existing open space, parks, and infrastructure, as well as the improvement of streets and signage. Beautification can help to enhance the image of the neighborhood and attract businesses and families to move into the community. 47th Street Mural. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2018.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Housing & Beautification Assets Pershing Rd

Western Ave

1 2 3 43rd St

4 5

10 5 4

47th St

8 Halsted St

Racine Ave

Ashland Ave

Damen Ave

9 7

12 51st St

Garfield Blvd

Figure 11: New City Housing and Beautification Assets. Source: Great Cities Institute Asset Mapping. Map created by Great Cities Institute.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

10 11

Housing Services BYNC La Casa Norte New City Supportive Living Spanish Coalition for Housing The Resurrection Projectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Casa Hidalgo Beautification 49th St Rail Tracks Packingtown Park Micek Playground McInerney Playlot Park Wagner Park Back of the Yards Park

Housing & Beautification Education

Resident Vision Ideas • • • • •

Provide house rehabilitation training (carpentry, plumbing, electricity) Build more affordable housing Provide subsidies and loans to repair homes Create more shelters for the homeless Convert abandoned buildings into housing (low income), art galleries, and student living • Help homeless youth find housing

15,504 housing units in BOTY 62% are renter-occupied vs 44% in the city Median Year Structure built is 1940 Median gross rent is $766 Median housing value is $123,706 Source: 2012-2016 American Community Survey 5-year Estimates Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Objectives Objective 1

Objective 2

Case Study:

Provide services to landlords and tenants within the community.

Facilitate access to resources for current and potential homeowners.

City of Chicago’s Micro-Market Recovery Program (MMRP)

A strong network of landlords and tenants will help to create a stable and resilient neighborhood. Involving these two target populations in community meetings will help them stay updated regarding housing issues and work toward the housing objectives of the entire community. The creation of a landlord and tenant association will also raise awareness of residents’ rights and allow them to seek support, if needed.

Roughly half (47%) of Back of the Yards homes are renter-occupied. Connecting many of these renters to financial skills training and homeownership preparation workshops could increase rates of homeownership throughout the community, equip community members with financial literacy tools, and empower residents to pursue homeownership. For those who already own homes, these resources can help them to maintain financial stability and learn how to make the most of homeownership.

The City of Chicago recognizes that the private market must be the source of housing recovery. However, in some neighborhoods, the market cannot recover on its own, which is why the MicroMarket Recovery Program (MMRP) was created. The MMRP’s goal is to rebuild the private housing market in distressed communities by reducing the cost of home ownership and attracting new owners to vacant buildings on targeted neighborhood blocks. The Program provides resident-led organizations the tools necessary to increase neighborhood stability through reinvestment in vacant buildings and current home ownerhsip, while increasing the opportunity for new home ownership. The Resurrection Project plays this critical role, collaboratively integrating housing stabilization into the broader community goals of safety, education and community development. (Source: City of Chicago MMRP and The Resurrection Project)

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Objective 3

Case Study:

Objective 4

Connect homeowners with financial assistance programs (such as loans, subsidies, and land acquisition programs) to make needed repairs and to increase the value of their homes.

City of Chicagoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tax Increment Financing Neighborhood Improvement Program

Create and stabilize homeownership.

Residents expressed the need for financial assistance for home repairs, as well as a desire to learn how to complete some home repairs themselves. A robust range of programs exist to provide homeowners with financial assistance for interior and exterior renovations, as well as energy efficiency upgrades. All of these improvements have the potential to increase property values, adding to community wealth.

The TIF-NIP program, administered by the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Department of Planning and Development and Neighborhood Housing Service (NHS), offers grant funding for repairs to homes within TIF districts. While primarily designed for exterior renovations, 30% of any individual grant may be put towards interior repair work if it is health- or safety-related, and more than 30% may be allocated towards energy efficiency improvements. Any homeowner within a TIF district earning up to 100% of the AMI is eligible.

Improving the overall housing stock in Back of the Yards is the first step toward laying the foundation for increased homeownership. By renovating vacant homes, more families will be encouraged to move into the neighborhood or make the transition from renter to homeowner. Connecting residents to financial resources, such as downpayment assistance, housing rehab loans, or the housing associations mentioned in Objective 1 will support existing homeowners and ensure that they have the resources needed to remain within the community.

Housing and Beautification

Objectives

(Source: City of Chicago Department of Planning and Development.)

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Objectives Case Study

Objective 5

Case Study

Cook County Land Bank Authority (CCLBA)

Provide services to assist vulnerable individuals.

The Night Ministryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Youth Housing Programs, Chicago, IL

The Cook County Land Bank Authority acquires vacant homes and empty lots for rehabilitation, reconstruction, and sale to developers and homeowners. They frequently work with developers to transform vacant parcels into affordable housing.

Many neighborhood residents expressed concern for individuals experiencing homelessness in the community, with particular concern for young people. Connecting families and youth experiencing homelessness with services and financial coaching assistance could increase housing stability across the neighborhood. The development of transitional housing programs, similar to Su Casa and La Casa Norte, would provide residents with stable housing and support.

The Night Ministry provides a range of housing programs for youth experiencing homelessness. Their mobile Youth Outreach teams provide healthcare, food, and personal hygiene supplies to young people on the streets. The Night Ministry also runs The Crib, their emergency shelter for young people aged 18-24; a 120-day Interim Housing program offering longer-term housing and supportive services; and the STEPS Transitional Living program, which assists 18-21 year olds in transitioning from homelessness to stable independent living within 2 years.

The Cook County Land Bank Authority also offers its Homebuyer Direct Program, which sells vacant, tax-delinquent homes needing cosmetic renovations directly to homeowners. Homeowners are able to purchase residences between $50,000 and $170,000, on average, and build equity by renovating the below-market-rate properties.

(Source: The Night Ministry.) The Land Bank Authority has identified a list of qualified contractors and lenders offering purchase rehabilitation loans to share with residents. Currently the program mainly exists in the Roseland, South Shore, and Avalon Park neighborhoods, but CCLBA has plans to expand. (Source: CCLBA.)

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Objective 6

Objective 7

Objective 8

Improve safety and quality of life for all residents by uniting neighbors for stable blocks.

Repurpose existing infrastructure and enhance existing parks and open space to improve recreation opportunities while beautifying the community.

Increase public investment to change the narrative about Back of the Yards.

A block club is a group of people who live on specific blocks, or within a neighborhood area, who have organized to improve the quality of life in their community - including public safety. Block club members connect with each other to strengthen their neighborhood, sharing their ideas of what can be done and combining their talents to make it happen. Block clubs can help ensure accountability and transparency, as well as create a powerful voice in the community.

Expanding park and open space within the community would reduce the amount of vacant lots while creating more community gathering spaces and promoting public health. Increasing the amount of green space could dramatically improve Back of the Yardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s landscape and image, attracting visitors and families to the community.

Facing high levels of vacancy and disinvestment, the City of Chicago offers financial incentives that encourage homeowners to make improvements to their properties or utilize vacant land productively. Leveraging these programs would allow homeowners to increase their quality of life and the value of their homes. By lobbying local officials to improve lighting, sidewalks, and streets, Back of the Yards will become a safer, more desirable place to live.

Housing and Beautification

Objectives

Residents discussing housing and beautification at a community event. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2019.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Packingtown Parklet on Laflin and 49th. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2018.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Objective 1

Provide services to landlords and tenants within the community. a. Create a designated office and association for landlord and tenant resources that will provide support for those who need assistance and provide a platform to educate and avocate for landlord and tenant rights.

Strategies

b. Involve landlords in community meetings related to housing issues. c. Provide financial skills education to renters, including those who may be working toward becoming homeowners.

Objective 2

Facilitate access to resources for current and potential homeowners.

Lead Organization(s)

Partnering Organization(s)

Chicagoland Spanish CoaliBilingual Landtion for Housing, lord Association The Resurrection (CBLA), City of Project Chicago, BYNC, NHS

Lead Organization(s)

Housing and Beautification

Housing and Beautification Implementation Actions

Partnering Organization(s)

a. Identify or create designated spaces throughout the neighborhood where housing resources can be distributed. Strategies

Objective 3

Spanish CoaliCity of Chicago, tion for Housing, Local Brokers, b. Share information with residents about becoming a homeowner at community events and meetings. The Resurrection BYNC, NHS Project c. Facilitate workshops that educate homeowners about financial skill-building and their rights and responsibilities.

Connect homeowners with financial assistance programs, such as loans, subsidies, and land acquisition programs. Help them to make needed repairs that will increase home values. a. Connect homeowners with financing options for interior and exterior renovations. b. Connect homeowners with subsidies for energy efficiency upgrades and financing options for interior and exterior renovations.

Strategies

c. Renovate existing emergency housing buildings. d. Support homeownership as a source of income. e. Determine sources of downpayment and/or purchase assistance to help more individuals become homeowners.

Lead Organization(s)

Partnering Organization(s)

MMRP (Weatherization), NeighSpanish Coali- borhood Lending tion for Housing, Services (NLS), The Resurrection Home ImproveProject ment Loan Lenders, BYNC, NHS, Local Brokers

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Housing and Beautification Implementation Actions Objective 4

Create and stabilize homeownership.

Lead Organization(s)

Partnering Organization(s)

a. Renovate existing vacant homes so they are marketable, thus reducing the number of vacant buildings. Strategies

Objective 5

Spanish CoaliLenders, NHS, tion for Housing, b. Connect residents to financial resources including downpayment assistance and housing rehab loans. City of Chicago, The Resurrection BYNC Project c. Partner with technical and vocational schools to provide students with job training in the construction trades while completing home repairs.

Provide services to assist vulnerable individuals.

Lead Organization(s)

Partnering Organization(s)

a. Help youth experiencing homelessness by creating a transitional housing program for teens and young adults. Strategies

Objective 6

Casa Norte, Su Casa, City b. Involve youth currently experiencing homelessness or living in a transitional setting - possibly La Case Norte, of Chicago (All from programs including Su Casa and La Casa Norte - for their input on how best to provide housing The Resurrection Chicago HomeProject services to youth. less Prevention c. Work out an attainable emergency housing plan and connect individuals in housing crisis or Program), BYNC transitional housing to financial coaching.

Improve safety and quality of life for all residents by uniting neighbors for Lead Organization(s) stable blocks. a. Develop a block club association.

Strategies

b.Undertake a safety campaign focused on preventing house fires with resources from the Chicago Fire Department and American Red Cross. c. Connect existing and future block clubs to housing resources.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Partnering Organization(s)

CAPS, Chicago Spanish CoaliPolice Departtion for Housing, ment, CFD, City The Resurrection of Chicago, Project BYNC

Objective 7

Repurpose existing infrastructure and enhance existing parks and open Lead space to improve recreation opportunities while beautifying the community Organization(s) a. Transform the 1.8 mile long, vacant rail viaduct south of 49th Street into a community park and trail.

Strategies

b. Install wayfinding markers at bus stops and throughout the community to direct users to community amenities. c. Utilize vacant lots to create additional parks and open space.

Objective 8

Increase public investment to change the narrative about Back of the Yards.

Partnering Organization(s)

Alderman, CDOT, Chicago Park BYNC, SSA 10 District

Lead Organization(s)

Partnering Organization(s)

Housing and Beautification

Housing and Beautification Implementation Actions

a. Leverage public funding for landscape improvements and beautification. b. Demolish vacant homes and buildings that cannot be renovated. Strategies

c. Lobby local officials to improve lighting, sidewalks, and streets.

Alderman, BYNC BYNC, SSA 10

d. Leverage existing programs, such as Large Lots, to allow homeowners to increase their property values.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Back of the Yards community visioning. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2017.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Civic Engagement & Community Relations We will strive to unify our neighbors through enhanced outreach efforts and collective initiatives to bolster neighborhood conditions and give residents a voice. Many of the goals and objectives under the Back of the Yards Community Plan require the participation of residents and stakeholders to advocate and carryout its neighborhood-stabilizing initiatives.

methods of spreading information, such as a Facebook group. This will allow residents to take advantage of programs and services that are already offered in the community. Issues related to public safety also undermine the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capacity for self-governance. Leadership is needed in various forms to reduce barriers to engagement and improve relations within the neighborhood. A representational neighborhood-wide council could help bridge gaps while other communication tools could be used to improve civic knowledge. A strong network of churches is also a key asset that the neighborhood can utilize to gather people, spread information, and work toward a more engaged community. Local faith leaders explain: Long before Saul Alinsky helped to pull together the various strands of ethnic groups, the Churches created multiple levels of community cohesion. They created a â&#x20AC;&#x153;parallel universeâ&#x20AC;? for the packers who were under such pressure from the companies. The diverse geography today and its access would render such a close-knit system to be difficult to maintain.

Given that Back of the Yards is comprised of four separate wards, it has been challenging to distribute public resources and services in an effective and comprehensive manner. The separation of the wards has made it difficult for public programs and funding to reach their fullest potential and serve the entire Back of the Yards community. Citizen representation in local government is also undermined because the collective voice of the community is fragmented and weakened by the separation of wards.

The churches still have three special routes of contribution.

The first is

communication. We see several thousand people every week and can be a source of both communicating events and become a listening forum for the many groups active in the community. The second is public space. Like the library, the high school, park district, there are meeting spaces that can be used to stimulate the quality of life. The presence and activity of the churches can give credibility to activities and especially to grant proposals, and other requests for resources for the community.

While increasing the amount of public and private resources to Back of the Yards should be prioritized, existing resources and services should be coordinated more efficiently to reach the most people possible. This can be done by promoting neighborhood forums and events, as well as electronic

The strategies that follow seek to cultivate a culture of civic engagement and selfgovernance in Back of the Yards. In doing so, a stronger, more unified community will be in a better position to address the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Civic Resources Pershing Rd

Western Ave

43rd St

47th St

5 Halsted St

Racine Ave

Ashland Ave

Damen Ave

51st St

6 Garfield Blvd

1 2 3 4 5 6 68

Figure 12: Civic Offices and Assets City of Chicago Government Office Chicago Fire Department Chicago Fire Department Chicago Fire Department Chicago Public Library, Back of the Yards Chicago Public Library, Sherman Park

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Figure 13: Wards 12th Ward 15th Ward 20th Ward 16th Ward 3rd Ward 11th Ward Figures 12, 13: New City Civic Resources. Source: Great Cities Institute Asset Mapping, City of Chicago Data Portal. Maps Created by Great Cities Institute.

Resident Vision Ideas • • • • • • • •

Create a one neighborhood, one ward campaign Implement peace and nonviolence programs Devise a more equitable way to divide the money from city Alderman’s office Pay less in taxes Reach 100% voter participation by brainstorming ways for all residents to participate Bridge the gap between Black and Latino community members by respecting each other’s culture Organize cultural events that are designed to entertain the community as a whole Municipal Permit Access reform

Five separate wards comprise BOTY 3rd Ward: Pat Dowell 11th Ward: Patrick Daley Thompson 12th Ward: George Cardenas 15th Ward: Raymond A. Lopez 16th Ward: Toni L. Foulkes 20th Ward: Willie B. Cochran Three Cook County Commissioners District 2: Dennis Deer District 7: Alma E. Anaya District 11: John Daley

Three State Representatives House District 1: Aaron Ortiz House District 2: Theresa Mah House District 6: Sonya M. Harper Two State Senators Senate District 1: Antonio Muñoz Senate District 3: Mattie Hunter

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Objectives Objective 1

Objective 2

Develop programs and engagement strategies that promote self-governance of the community.

Begin a One neighborhood, One Legislative District campaign for Back of the Yards.

By providing residents with opportunities to gather and develop leadership skills, they will be able to coordinate efforts to increase funding and services to the neighborhood. Developing stronger Neighborhood Advisory Councils for each ward can provide better representation for residents and also allow community members to engage with one-another and help design and implement strategies that will benefit the entire community.

The Back of the Yards neighborhood is currently comprised of sections from four different wards, the 12th, 15th, 16th, and 20th. A unified community under one ward or legislative district would better represent the neighborhood to the City Council. Public resources and services could be allocated more effectively to a unified community. Additionally, economic development policies specific to the entire Back of the Yards community could be implemented more readily.

Back of the Yards Coffee Co., a community meeting spot. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2018.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Objective 3

Case Study

Objective 4

Promote information for neighborhood residents about forums, gatherings, and means of communication that promote well-being.

Pilsen Neighborhood Facebook Group, Chicago, IL

Continue to provide sanctuary and support services for immigrants and refugees that live in Back of the Yards.

If moderated effectively, a Back of the Yards community Facebook group could provide residents and stakeholders with a familiar and accessible platform to exchange information, organize events, and engage in public debate. Such events could include cultural events, volunteer opportunities, resource fairs, and community gardening projects.

The Pilsen Neighborhood Facebook page promotes local talents, businesses, organizations, and events in the Pilsen community. The Facebook page supports the involvement of local residents to improve, lead, and inspire pro-active efforts at a grass-roots level while creating an open atmosphere encouraging peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opinions, dialogues and ideas and condemning any gang-related content or behavior (including bullying). The group is managed by independent community members with no connections to any political groups or organizations.

Ensuring that Back of the Yards remains a safe and accepting community for immigrant and refugee families is essential to the neighborhoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stability. English as a Second Language courses, job training courses, and social events can help residents learn skills, support one another, educate themselves about current issues, and give them a voice in Back of the Yards affairs. Providing immigrants and refugees with formal spaces to convene with community members can also help them to quickly integrate into life in a new community.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Civic Engagement and Community Relations

Objectives

Objectives Objective 5

Case Study

Objective 6

Partner with legal entities to support vulnerable residents.

Chicago Legal Clinic, Chicago, IL

Increase communication between community organizations so they can work together to achieve similar goals.

As a community in a sanctuary city for all residents, regardless of immigration status, the Back of the Yards community should establish partnerships with legal firms and clinics. This could improve access to legal services or the neighborhoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most vulnerable residents, particularly the undocumented.

Since 1981, the Chicago Legal Clinic has evolved from a small neighborhood office to a keystone provider of legal services to the working poor and disadvantaged in the Chicago area. This entails providing direct legal counseling and high quality representation at low cost or pro bono and free educational seminars on legal topics. Through our efforts, hundreds of clients have received legal protection from domestic violence, had their immigration status formalized, adopted children and been rescued from foreclosure. Thousands more received representation in other areas, including landlord/tenant, guardianships, consumer issues and the quest for social security disability benefits. (Source: Chicago Legal Clinic.)

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Exploring ways in which community organizations can collaborate and work with one another to achieve similar goals can expedite beneficial exchanges in the neighborhood. Organizations such as the Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council, Casa Norte, The Resurrection Project, Neighborhood Housing Services, Spanish Coalition for Housing, Plant Chicago, and other various groups focusing on health, education, art, and economic development may have overlapping interests allowing for opportunities to work together.

Objective 1

Develop programs and engagement strategies that promote selfgovernance of the community.

Lead Organization(s)

Partnering Organization(s)

a. Assess current organizing efforts and bridge gaps between people of color and all residents of Back of the Yards, creating opportunities for people to gather, participate together, and voice their concerns. b. Promote and increase access to adult education programs that support leadership and civic engagement. Strategies

c. Increase voter participation by analyzing current voter levels and hosting citizenship workshops, voter registration drives, and forums to meet representatives. d. Create a representative neighborhood-wide council that includes undocumented residents, youth, and marginalized populations that develops legislative priorities, addresses specific neighborhood concerns, and promotes civic engagement.

Peace & Education Coalition

CPS, BYNC, TRP

e. Analyze, communicate, coordinate, and increase private and public funding that comes into the neighborhood. Make this information accessible to community groups in order to coordinate the request for and use of funds.

Objective 2

Begin a One Neighborhood, One Legislative District campaign for Back of Lead Organization(s) the Yards. a. In anticipation of the 2020 census, promote participation from the local residents, educate about the importance of the census, and advocate for a safe and confidential process that residents are not afraid to participate in.

Strategies

b. Utilize updated and accurate census data to help promote the unification of Back of the Yards into one ward/legislative dristrict.

Peace & Education Coalition

Civic Engagement and Community Relations

Civic Engagement and Community Relations Implementation Actions

Partnering Organization(s)

BYNC, TRP

c. Meet with and ask all current elected officials in all levels of electoral districts for support of our â&#x20AC;&#x153;One Neighborhood, One Wardâ&#x20AC;? unification campaign.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Civic Engagement and Community Relations Implementation Actions Objective 3

Promote information for neighborhood residents about forums, gatherings, and means of communication that promote well-being. a. Encourage participation in the Peace and Education Coalition meetings and related gatherings that foster neighborhood networks promoting education, family support, and peace building through social justice.

Strategies

b. Promote knowledge of the Facebook page â&#x20AC;&#x153;We Are Back of the Yardsâ&#x20AC;? where residents can connect and share information with one another. c. Promote resident participation in both formal and informal spaces where residents can gather, share resources, organize, and advocate, such as volunteer clubs, resource fairs, and community gardening events.

Objective 4

Continue to provide sanctuary and support services for immigrants and refugees that live in Back of the Yards. a. Identify organizations that provide ESL courses and job training to immigrants and refugees.

Strategies b. Organize events where residents can learn about community resources, as well as receive support for themselves and their families.

Objective 5 Strategies

Partner with legal entities to support vulnerable residents. a. Identify legal firms and clinics that are known to support vulnerable populations, such as undocumented immigrants and refugees. b. Communicate with organizations and collaborate with them to identify and plan the best methods of reaching out to and supporting vulnerable community members. c. Organize outreach to residents to ensure that they are aware of organizations that are available to help and support them.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Lead Organization(s)

Peace & Education Coalition

Lead Organization(s) Peace & Education Coalition

Lead Organization(s)

Peace & Education Coalition

Partnering Organization(s)

BYNC, TRP

Partnering Organization(s) CPS, BYNC, TRP

Partnering Organization(s)

BYNC, TRP

Objective 6

Strategies

Increase communication between community organizations so they can work together to achieve similar goals. a. Devise and agree upon a method or platform for sharing information between organizations. Consider creating a volunteer or paid position that is responsible for communicating with organizations, compiling information, and devising methods of collaboration. b. Actively consider other organizations that may have similar goals when planning events and applying for funding.

Lead Organization(s)

BYNC

Partnering Organization(s) Peace & Education Coalition, TRP

c. Share contacts and resources with other community organizations.

Civic Engagement and Community Relations

Civic Engagement and Community Relations Implementation Actions

Back of the Yards community visioning, 2017(Left). Community Event, 2019 (Right). Source: Great Cities Institute, 2019.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Mural on 47th Street. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2018.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Arts & Culture We will create a distinct image for our community through creative and cultural initiatives and encourage the use of the arts as a tool to achieve our other goals and create a sense of community pride and unity.

Young people in Back of the Yards, in particular, can benefit from the arts and cultural placemaking. Through such programming, youth are introduced to community building and are able to meaningfully contribute to their neighborhood. Youth art programs also help teens to develop creative problem solving and social skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Research compiled by the Americans for the Arts documents that students involved in the arts have higher GPAs and standardized test scores and lower dropout rates. Research also demonstrates that the arts strengthen the local economy by driving tourism and attendance at cultural events and patronage of local businesses. The benefits of arts and culture programming are multifaceted in that they lead to the development of more livable and visually appealing public spaces, while simultaneously contributing to community building and neighborhood pride. The following strategies will help to create a strong community of artists, while also celebrating the diverse cultural identity of Back of the Yards.

Back of the Yards residents expressed a strong desire for expanded arts and culture programming that celebrates the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s multicultural identity and rich industrial history, provides a creative, engaging experience for youth and teens, and enhances the economic base. Arts and cultural events in communities encourage social interaction and enrich collective identity, which can lead to an increase in civic participation and community dialogue. Because participation in the arts and cultural events can connect residents to community institutions, increased programming in Back of the Yards can help to achieve other quality of life initiatives discussed in the community plan. Thus, the suggested strategies and action items are not limited to just the arts community, but to any organizations interested in making Back of the Yards a more vibrant and celebratory environment. Vista Hermosa Mural. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2018.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Arts Resources Pershing Rd

Western Ave

1 2

Art Programs Art on 51st The Woodshop

43rd St

3 4 2

5 47th St

5 1

Halsted St

Racine Ave

Ashland Ave

Damen Ave

51st St

Garfield Blvd

Figure 14: New City Arts Resources. Source: Great Cities Institute Asset Mapping. Map created by Great Cities Institute. Opposite: Murals throughout Back of the Yards. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2018.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Murals and Installations Viaduct Murals, Laflin Viaduct Murals, Loomis Viaduct Murals, Throop Supermercado La Raza Mural, 47th

• Increase art programs (such as mural painting) with children and teens

Arts and Culture

Resident Vision Ideas • Build a big sculpture that aligns with the identity of the BOTY community at the main intersection of the commercial corridor • Open a cultural center for performing/visual arts

Objectives Objective 1

Case Study

Expand local arts and culture programs and events to serve the diverse communities of Back of the Yards.

SkyArt, Chicago, IL

Yollocalli Arts Reach, Chicago, IL

The community’s diverse ethnic heritages, particularly the Mexican-Latino, African-American, and Afro-Latino communities, have made Back of the Yards the vibrant neighborhood it is today. Involving these groups in cultural events will create an inclusive community atmosphere that has both social and economic benefits. By expanding art programs that serve the neighborhood’s youth, they can become more engaged with their community in a creative and productive manner.

Mural on 47th Street. Source: Great Cities Institute, 2018.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

SkyART is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free visual arts programming for young people “to create, to communicate effectively, and to learn the essential skills and creative thinking needed to succeed.” SkyART also partners with schools on Chicago’s South Side and various neighborhod organizations to provide after-school arts programming and community workshops. (Sources: Chicago Tribune, Institute for Nonviolence Chicago.)

Yollocalli Arts Reach is the award-winning youth initiative of the National Museum of Mexican Art that offers free arts and culture programming to teens and young adults. Located in the heart of Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood, they serve as an open community center with studio spaces, computer lab, radio production studio, a large art library, and a creative, supportive staff who are always around to help, encourage, and inspire. Yollocalli aims to strengthen the students’ creative and cultural capital by engaging them with their own cultural discourses through art making.

Case Study

Objective 2

Objective 3

ElevArte’s Each One/Reach One Program, Chicago, IL

Develop an arts center to serve the Back of the Yards creative industry.

Use local arts as a tool for economic development.

Each One/Reach One is a Chicago-based arts mentorship program, which matches working artists with youth participating in ElevArte’s programs. The young people and their mentors participate in arts workshops as well as career and leadership development opportunities, allowing participating teens to explore if a career in art is of interest to them.

The creation of an arts center in Back of the Yards will provide the foundation and resources needed to cultivate the neighborhood’s artist community. An arts center space could provide classes and programs for youth and adults alike and may be used as an outlet to address some of the topics covered in this plan such as: beautification, education, and public health.

Art can be used as a means to promote local businesses, as well as beautify vacant spaces along Back of the Yards commercial corridors and throughout neighborhoods. Not only does art lend to the unique cultural character of the community, but it also makes the pedestrian experience more enjoyable. The local arts community can assist in making Back of the Yards a destination for street art, which will simultaneously benefit the business community.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Arts and Culture

Objectives

Case Study

Objective 4

Objective 5

Ad Hoc Art, Brooklyn, NY

Create a neighborhood Arts Collective.

In Summer 2009 in Brooklyn, New York, Ad Hoc Art (AHA) was commissioned by the local Business Improvement District (similar to a Special Service Area) to transform a row of vacant stores scheduled for redevelopment into a temporary street art gallery known as Willoughby Windows. The creative art exhibit transformed an otherwise vacant eyesore into an interesting space for pedestrians.

Inviting local artists to meet and form a collective will give rise to opportunities for cultural engagement and collaborative cultural and arts initiatives. Members of the art collective would be able to partner with parks and schools to develop stronger arts curriculums and participatory events.

Connect the Back of the Yards arts community to funding and support for arts programming.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Sufficient funding is critical to creating a stronger and more vibrant arts community. Existing community funding can help support arts and culture initiatives if community organizations collaborate with artists to supplement their own programs and events. These partnerships could also open the door to more financial grant opportunities. For artists and cultural workers looking to expand into civic engagement and community artwork, grant writing training could be provided to assist with the collection of funds.

Objective 1

Expand local arts program to serve diverse communities of Back of the Yards

Lead Organization(s)

Partnering Organization(s)

BYNC, Port Ministries, The Gate Newspaper

CPL, Peace and Education Coalition, CPS, National Museum of Mexican Art, Amor al Arte, Brown Wall Project, Chicago Park District, The Plant Chicago, Community Members, Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation, Ayodele Drum and Dance

Lead Organization(s)

Partnering Organization(s)

a. Expand youth art programs to keep students engaged and provide them with a creative outlet in their community. Strategies

b. Expand arts programs that honor and celebrate the diverse ethnic heritages that make up Back of the Yards. c. Identify all arts programs available to families in Back of the Yards. d. Connect the community with city-wide institutions that already work within the art sector to expand programming and assist with funding.

Objective 2

Develop an arts center to serve the Back of the Yards creative industry.

Arts and Culture

Arts and Culture Implementation Actions

a. Identify spaces that already support the arts. Strategies

b. Identify areas in the neighborhood that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have access to the arts. c. Find grants to help fund this initiative.

BYNC, Port Ministries, The Gate Newspaper

Community Members, VAMOS

d. Identify artists looking to expand into civic engagement and community artwork.

Objective 3

Use local arts as a tool for economic development

Lead Organization(s)

Partnering Organization(s)

BYNC, Port Ministries, The Gate Newspaper

Back of the Yards Coffee Co., Monarcas PLACE 7, Agencia Y Notaria Cadena, Amor al Arte, Line Break, Brown Wall Project, Folded Map Project, The Plant Chicago, VAMOS, Peace and Education Coalition, Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation, Ayodele Drum and Dance

a. Utilize vacant storefronts as art gallery spaces. b. Use vacant lots to provide community engaged art workshops c. Connect businesses to local artists to help brand businesses. Strategies d. Provide arts and cultural workers with a basic understanding of community development best practices.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Arts and Culture Implementation Actions Objective 4

Create a neighborhood arts collective.

Lead Organization(s)

Partnering Organization(s)

The Gate Newspaper, Port Ministries

CPS High School Art Departments, Community Members, Amor al Arte, Mujeres Mutantes, Sonika Photography Arts and Studio, VAMOS, Folded Map Project

a. Identify and invite all neighborhood participating artists to meet and form a collective. b. Create a robust team of engaged artists and cultural workers. Strategies

c. Engage young artists and contact CPS art departments for potential candidates. d. Locate space in parks and schools that can house resident artists.

Objective 5

Connect the Back of the Yards arts community to funding and support for arts programming.

Lead Organization(s)

Partnering Organization(s)

BYNC, Port Ministries, The Gate Newspaper

BYNC, CPL, Chicago Park District, Amor al Arte, Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation, The Plant Chicago, DCASE, National Museum of Mexican Art

a. Amplify existing funding in the community to work towards objectives. Strategies

b. Bring together grant writers from the community and search for potential grant opportunities and partnerships. c. Provide grant writing training for artists, cultural workers, and community memebrs interested in using art to promote civic engagement.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Supermercado La Raza Mural, 47th. Source: BYNC, 2019.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Plan Launch Meeting, 2019

Source: Great Cities Institute, 2019.

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Great Cities Institute (MC 107), 412 South Peoria Street, Suite 400, Chicago, Illinois 60607-7067 Phone (312) 996-8700 • Fax (312) 996-8933 • greatcities.uic.edu • gcities@uic.edu

Back of the Yards Neighborhood Plan

Articles inside

Economic Development and Employment

Housing and Beautification

Planning Process

Arts and Culture

Civic Engagement and Community Relations

Youth, Safety, and Recreation

History and Current State

Land Use and Zoning