Chicago City Wire

Ten neighborhood business projects will receive a total of $2 million in Community Development Grants, as announced by Mayor Brandon Johnson. The funds are part of the Housing and Economic Development bond proceeds and represent approximately $4.5 million in neighborhood investments.

Mayor Johnson explained the initiative's importance, stating, “These investments speak to the promise of the Housing and Economic Development bond. We promised to use these funds to invest in our communities, to support small businesses, create jobs, and make our communities more vibrant. We know we cannot rely on the federal government, so we are doing for ourselves here in Chicago. I’m proud of these spring grant awards because they are strategic, targeted investments that are essential for the health and vitality of local commercial corridors."

Recipients of the grants include various businesses across Chicago with allotted amounts specified for each. Artists Book House is set to receive $249,032 for converting a former school building. Belmont Tavern will get $250,000 for renovating a historic tavern space. Cherish the Moments Pediatric Therapy LLC is awarded $250,000 for a pediatric therapy clinic buildout. Haymarket Center will receive $199,397 for healthcare center improvements. It Takes a Village at River City is allocated $96,525 for childcare facility improvements.

Luckycat is set to receive $214,874 for a café space buildout. POD39 Studios will get $225,324 for a podcast studio buildout. RRM Visions LLC will receive $250,000 to renovate a vacant storefront. Skylark Bar & Restaurant is granted $31,893 for restaurant and residential unit rehabilitation. Lastly, Tacotlan will receive $250,000 for restaurant space rehabilitation with added seating and a kitchen.

The Community Development Grants, handled by the Department of Planning and Development (DPD), are distributed based on project stages. The awardees were chosen from 167 applications after evaluating project viability, applicant experience, neighborhood needs, and other factors.

For more details, visit the DPD website's Community Development Grant section.