Ciere Boatright commissioner of the Chicago Department of Planning and Development (DPD) | City of Chicago Website
Ciere Boatright commissioner of the Chicago Department of Planning and Development (DPD) | City of Chicago Website
A vacant building in Austin is set to be transformed into an arts space and café with the help of a $662,778 grant from the Neighborhood Opportunity Fund. The grant was approved by the City Council today.
The new establishment, Outwest Gallery and Cafe, plans to display works by local artists and provide healthy food options using a pay-what-you-can model. The 2,500-square-foot venue will be located at 5249 W. Chicago Ave., taking advantage of its proximity to the POPCourts! community plaza. This plaza opened on the same block in 2021 and hosts outdoor events.
Upon completion of the project, there is potential for an additional $75,000 in grant funding if local hiring and job training criteria are met.
The Neighborhood Opportunity Fund supports neighborhood investments on the South, Southwest, and West sides through fees collected from downtown construction projects. Grants over $250,000 require approval from the City Council.