Chicago City Wire

Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) have completed an $8.7 million streetscape improvement project in the Austin neighborhood, known as the "Soul City West" corridor. The project was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Mayor Johnson, 29th Ward Alderman Chris Taliaferro, 37th Ward Alderwoman Emma Mitts, and local community partners.

“This project shows what’s possible when we invest in our neighborhoods and work hand-in-hand with the people who live and work here,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. He emphasized that the improvements reflect the pride and potential of the Austin community while supporting small businesses and building a stronger future for the West Side.

The redesigned stretch along Chicago Avenue between Austin Boulevard and Central Avenue includes wider sidewalks, new street trees, upgraded lighting, and various safety enhancements. This is the first phase of a three-part plan to revitalize the area, with future phases extending east to Cicero Avenue.

CDOT Commissioner Tom Carney highlighted that this investment brings much-needed upgrades to aging infrastructure while creating a welcoming corridor that mirrors Austin's strength. “CDOT worked closely with community stakeholders throughout this project and looks forward to continuing these improvements in future phases,” he said.

Alderman Chris Taliaferro noted that the streetscape supports local businesses along Chicago Avenue. Alderwoman Emma Mitts expressed pride in celebrating this milestone with partners and neighbors.

Key enhancements include roadway safety improvements, wider sidewalks with colorful pavers, new site furnishings, curb extensions for pedestrian safety, bus boarding islands for better transit access, upgraded street lighting, full-width resurfacing, drainage improvements, bicycle facilities with raised bike lanes, and high-visibility crosswalks.

Malcolm Crawford from the Austin African American Business Networking Association remarked on the project's broader impact: “This project means hope; it means investing in our businesses, our community and our future.”

The design process incorporated feedback from residents gathered through public meetings. Concerns about speeding, lack of street amenities, and narrow sidewalks were addressed through these upgrades.

The streetscape also features custom circular benches called Peace Circles designed in collaboration with Territory, a youth-focused design organization based in Austin. Local youth contributed artwork and prototypes to reflect community identity through design.

CDOT is planning further improvements with Soul City Central between Central Avenue and Laramie Avenue next. The final phase will be Soul City East from Laramie to Cicero Avenue.