Chicago City Wire

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Mayor Brandon Johnson have announced over $20 million in federal funding for the Ogden Avenue Improvement Project in Chicago's North Lawndale neighborhood. The funding, provided through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Safe Streets and Roads for All program, will be used to enhance safety and create a more accessible corridor for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.

The project, which will revitalize Ogden Avenue between Pulaski and Roosevelt roads, aims to reduce crashes and improve the overall quality of the transportation infrastructure in the area. The funding will support various improvements, including the repurposing and activation of public spaces.

Senator Duckworth emphasized the importance of improving street safety and increasing multimodal transportation infrastructure. She stated, "I'm proud to announce this important funding to help the City of Chicago make much-needed improvements to catalyze economic development, enhance community connectivity, and improve the quality of life for the North Lawndale community."

Senator Durbin highlighted the benefits of a streamlined transportation network. "Whether it's getting to work, school, or exploring all that Chicago has to offer, this investment will unlock new possibilities for the North Lawndale community," he said. He also emphasized the positive impact the project will have on businesses in the area.

Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed gratitude for the federal support and emphasized the project's significance in ensuring safer and more accessible streets for all Chicagoans. He stated, "This project will create a safer and more vibrant Ogden Avenue, which serves as a critical connector for residents to access transit and major commercial areas, schools, hospitals, parks, and more."

CDOT Acting Commissioner Tom Carney also commended the funding, acknowledging the transformative nature of the project. He thanked Senators Durbin and Duckworth and all the federal partners involved for securing the funding and stated, "CDOT will continue working closely with the community to bring this project to life and ensure that people using all modes of transportation can more safely and comfortably travel along Ogden Avenue."

The Ogden Avenue Corridor Improvements Project aligns with the goals of the U.S. DOT's Safe Streets and Roads for All program, which is funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The project aims to create a multimodal transportation corridor and a hub for community activity in North Lawndale.

By improving safety, repurposing public spaces, and reflecting the unique identity of North Lawndale, the project seeks to bring economic development and enhance the quality of life for residents. Further information about the project can be found at ImproveOgdenAve.org.

This federal funding announcement represents a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to transform the Ogden Avenue corridor and create a safer, more vibrant community in North Lawndale.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.chicago.gov/content/city/en/depts/cdot/provdrs/future_projects_andconcepts/news/2023/december/senators-duckworth-and-durbin-and-mayor-johnson-announce-more-th.html