In
memoriam: Leon Despres, truly the lion of Hyde Park. 1908-2009. Info
on Despres- See History
and Preservation homepage. Hyde Park Historical Society's Newsletter,
Hyde Park History, will continue to publish reminiscences
of Leon particularly related to his role in Hyde Park's history. Please
send to Frances S. Vandervoort.
There is an exhibit at Blackstone Library: In remembrance
of Sam Ackerman and Leon Despres, the library staff has created a
display called “Hyde Park Rebel”. Please stop by Blackstone
to view it, 4904 S. Lake Park Ave.
In
memoriam: Winston Kennedy, Sam Ackerman- both backbones of the community,
with eyes on its realties and ideals, and active in its organizations
including HPKCC.
Eugenia Fawcett, Helga Sinaiko- founders and rocks of the Garden
Fair
Welcome to our new affiliate committee, Southside
Preservation Action Committee,
led by Jack Spicer
Thank you to Fifth Third Bank for a very generous gift.
Congratulation
to the Hyde Park Garden Fair- 50 Years!
Be the change you want to see- Get involved in OUR community - Join
the Conference today.
Our programs: Chicago Academic Games League, Condos/Co-ops+,
Development-Preservation-Zoning, Disabilities Task Force, Friends
of Blackstone Library, Hyde Park Garden Fair, Nichols Park Advisory
Council, Parks Committee, Schools Committee, Southside Preservation
Action Fund, Transit Task Force, Hyde Park Used Book Sale, Whistlestop/Safety.
Visit our web site at http://www.hydepark.org to read about and
join!
A
501(c)3 tax-exempt organization
Hyde
Park has had several defining moments, is this another?: Lakeshore
suburban resort after Paul Cornell won one of the first commuter
stops in the country. Growth after the Chicago
Fire to become a larger resort with mansions and hotels.
Annexation to Chicago, then World's Columbian Exposition
and founding of the 2nd University of Chicago and huge
parks fill in an upper middle and upper class solid neighborhood
while growing its cottage homes, commercial districts to serve much
of the South Side and keeping the resort aspect too. In the 1920s
the Illinois Central is electrified leading to
a dense belt in the east and three-flat infill west. Decline of
housing and commercial and changing demographics lead to a crisis
in which the University, neighbors and city undertake massive urban
renewal while keeping a varied historic housing stock.
A
sense of unease by some that the neighborhood is being
left behind while the rest of the South Side starts to revive, infill
and become a new Mid South, University growth and desire that the
neighborhoods around it match its ambitions, and unease by others
at prospects of change and especially threat to affordability for
present residents, all put Hyde Park at a crossroads in
the new millennium--destination community or not?
-- and at that moment comes prospects of
Olympics, Antheus Capital as a dynamic new player, possible Obama
Effect, and the backlash side of a bubble.
Congratulations
on the move of the Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce to 5502 S. Everett.
60637.
Neighbors
write their well wishes for the Obamas. It's undergoing final binding
and send off. Manager Brenda Sawyer, bpsawyer@ameritech.net.
Hyde
Park Herald, January 14, 2009. By Sam Cholke
The
Hyde Park-Kenwood Community Conference (HP-KCC) closed a "best
wishes" book for the Obama family recently with more than 10
poster-board-sized pages with notes of congratulations, admiration
and encouragement to the neighbor turned president-elect.
Before
and even as president-elect, Obama has been a neighbor, and it's
been exciting, said Brenda Sawyer of HP-KCC and the Friends of Blackstone
Library. "For the people at East View Park, they knew the family
when they lived there, so for them it was more personal and they
were very excited," she said.
The
book made the rounds of Hyde Park institutions over the last weeks
collecting signatures from neighbors and living institutions like
former 5th Ward Alderman Leon Despres and community activist and
historian Timuel Black. The pages ended their circulation through
the neighborhood at the Regenstein Library on the University of
Chicago campus after making stops at Hyde Park Produce, Blackstone
Library, Valois Cafeteria and 57th Street Books among other sites."It's
a wonderful thing," said Ann Marie Coleman as she signed the
book at 57th Street Books, 1301 E. 57th St. "People were just
very excited to have the opportunity to participate in something
like this," Sawyer said.
Sawyer
wasn't sure yet how they would get the book to Obama, who isn't
accepting packages for security reasons. Top
The
University of Chicago held a public forum on the H1N1 virus at 5
p.m. May 6 in Harper Center Room C25, 5807 S. Woodlawn. (Don't come
if you are ill.)
Note
that by July both the incidence and virulence of the epidemic in
Illinois had since substantially subsided.
Schools
no longer have to close if they have a suspected or actual case
of the flu, and schools that had closed for flu-related reasons
may now reopen. Sick students and staff with flu-like symptoms should
stay home-or be sent home-for a minimum of 7 days, and adults should
continue to monitor children's health (and their own) for flu-like
symptoms. Schools should continue to encourage common-sense measures
to reduce the flu's spread.
Cases
have been reported in Hyde Park, including Medical Center employees.
"It
is important to keep in mind that the severity of swine flu in the
United States at this point is similar to the severity of seasonal
flu
strains. Although a death was reported in Texas, most of the documented
cases in the U.S. are considered mild, and some required no treatment
at
all. So even as we move quickly to reduce the spread of the flu
and
prepare for any accommodations that might be necessary, we do not
want
our proactive approach to be mistaken for undue alarm.
Because
the situation and our response are moving quickly, the most
complete source for updates is the University's web site, at
http://news.uchicago.edu/btn/swineflu.php. But we want to share
with you
a few developments since our last message on Monday:
If
you are
experiencing minor symptoms at home, please stay home, get rest
and
drink plenty of fluids. If your symptoms are moderate or severe,
please
seek care from your primary physician.
- [All]
must make their health their top priority. If you have
symptoms, need screening or need treatment, do not delay or defer
action
in order to meet academic or work obligations. [Of course, this
applies to people of any age.]
- If
you are planning domestic or international travel, we encourage
you
to check on the latest advice from the Centers for Disease Control,
which posts regular updates at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. Also be
mindful of the travel guidelines issued by the location to which
you are traveling.
All members of the campus community are encouraged to exercise caution
when making decisions about travel.
Finally,
let us offer one more reminder that the best way to fight swine
flu and any flu is through common sense measures. Stay at home if
you
are sick. Wash your hands frequently and cover your mouth with a
tissue
or a sleeve if you cough or sneeze. Monitor your own health and
heed the
recommendations available on our website and those of public health
agencies."
From the September 2008 Annual Meeting and
October 2 First Meeting of Hyde Park-Kenwood Community Conference.
HPKCC
held its annual meeting September 14 at the Neighborhood Club.
Aldermen Hairston and Preckwinkle gave extensive reports and they
and legislative candidate Will Burns and aide to Rep. Currie answered
discerning questions from the members. President Rumsey and committee
chairs described a very busy year and coming fall programs of
this unique general organization; they and members described concerns
about the neighborhood that the Conference should focus on. More
in Community
News and the HPKCC home
and membership page.
Elected
to three-year terms on the Board of Directors were Jay Ammerman
(former vice president), Amy Becker, Gwen Bonds, Amy Girst, Wallace
Goode, Anita Hollins, Julie Monberg (2nd term), and James Withrow
(former vice president). 2008
bios.
Elected
officers: President, George Rumsey;
First Vice President, Jay Ammerman; Second Vice President, Gary
Ossewaarde; Secretary, Trish Morse; Treasurer, Mark Granfors.
Nominating Committee: Jane Comiskey, chair; Lenora Austin; Julie
Monberg; Sue Purrington.
TIF
meeting news (next meeting July 13).
At
the May 11 meeting, Harper Court Arts Council reported on its change
of focus and rules for its art grants. Silliman Group's request
for support in a zoning change for 1350 E. 53rd st. was approved.
James Wilson of the city gave a brief update on 5-6 strong proposals
for Harper Court Area. There was modification to the CleanSlate
budget.
The
March 9 meeting included: Commissioner
Arnold Randall presented on Olympics; reports from RR committee
including on Cleanslate (whose contract was renewed), Harper Court
RFQ and Theater. The Harper RFQ received 11 responses, since narrowed
to 5 that will be preparing proposals. All include a graduate student
housing component and 2 have hotels.
The
January 12 TIF meeting: At
the January 12 TIF meeting, Susan Campbell announced that leases
for remaining tenants have been extended to June. (At least one
tenant says ability to relocate in that time if at all will be difficult.)
The RFP call is in progress, initial deadline was extended to January
26. Alderman Preckwinkle said that the semifinal selectees will
present their vision for Harper Court Area, not just the selected
finalist. Presumably
CleanSlate was approved for the next year. How that will play out
is uncertain. The meeting heard developers' evaluations of the block
exercises in development done in November. With some more density,
those for Harper Court especially could be viable.
At
first the main impacts were a uptick in foreclosure, some decline
in home prices, a couple store closings, and the suffering of those
who have lost jobs outside the community. But now the layoffs and
cutbacks are coming in our community, including the Art Center and
other organizations--and nowhere more than in the anchor institution,
University of Chicago and its Medical Center. The announcement of
450 layoffs as a start at the latter will surely affect many living
here, and cutbacks and new rules in clinic and ER service will affect
at least convenience. The University, whose departments are reducing
budgets by 3 to 9 percent, will certainly provide thinner support
and opportunities to neighbors and businesses than we expected.
Housing
and affordability are major issues. HPKCC is part of the Coalition
for Equitable Community Development. Visit Affordable
Housing homepage, and page of our Condos-Co-ops
Committee. New pages: Foreclosures
including links to where you can find out more, Housing
in the Stimulus and other measures. See Helpline.
While there is a rise in foreclosures starting early in 2008, it
is much less that in some surrounding and other Chicago neighborhoods
and is strongest in foreclosures. The rental market is so far quite
stable.
Mayor
Daley announced his priorities for the Recovery Act funds
going to the city. It will be mainly for transportation (52 hybrid
buses, Blue Lien upgrade and rail station upgrades) housing ($1m
for home foreclosure counseling, and $2.5 million to turn foreclosed
condos into affordable rental units), and education-- by far the
largest at $260m: mostly for after-school programs and teacher recruitment
and training, and Head Start and child care expansion. Police will
receive $20m for vehicles, in-car cameras and overtime. Roads receive
just 40 miles of arterial road resurfacing and 3 of reconstructed
streets at $86 million (cannot be spent for neighborhood streets).
How
can can the legislature solve the state's budget gap so as to enable
a capital budget-- and is there the will?
Summer
jobs are available to youth in partnership with the city, businesses,
agencies....
Read
print in pdf.
From:
Youth Ready Chicago Youth Ready Chicago
[mailto:YouthReadyChicago@cityofchicago.org]
Sent: Wednesday, March 25, 2009 1:07 PM
To: YouthReadyChicago@cityofchicago.org
Subject: Hire youth under the Economic Stimulus
Dear
Business Leader,
Mayor
Daley's Youth Ready Chicago provides individuals, ages 14-24,
the
opportunity to obtain apprenticeships, internships and jobs that
will bridge
their classroom experiences and possible career choices. This
summer, the
Youth Ready Chicago program will provide up to 7,300 youth between
the ages
of 14 and 24 with a government-subsidized paid work experience.
The
Department of Family and Support Services (FSS) is seeking applications
from
qualified non-profit organizations, public-sector employers, local
government and faith-based organizations to serve as hubs and
work sites for
the Youth Ready Chicago program.
Youth
Ready Chicago will operate through a system of hubs and work sites.
Hubs will provide operational and administrative oversight of
the program
including paying all youth associated with that hub. Work sites
will be
assigned to a hub and will provide youth with jobs in the community
and
supervise them. Hubs must complete and submit a Request for Proposal
(RFP)
and a HUB application by April 13th, 2009. You can obtain the
applications
by downloading them from two locations at www.youthreadychicago.org
or
www.cityofchicago.org/fss.
If
your organization is interested in being a work site for Youth
Ready
Chicago, please visit our web site at
http://www.youthreadychicago.org/employers/Work_Sites.html and
email the
following information to youthreadychicago@cityofchicago.org.
-Organization
Name
-Organization Address
-Contact Name & Title
-Contact Phone
-Job Description
-Number of Youth Positions Available
Please
e-mail www.youthreadychicago.org for additional questions or view
the
attached PDF for more information.
Hyde
Park Neighborhood Club, Blue Gargoyle, Hyde Park Art Center work toward
renewal, but are in critical funding difficulty
Part
of the problem right now is that the state and city are behind in
payments and all governments and donors are suffering exactly when
the needs are escalating. Some say the city and state are too ready
to solve their problems on the backs of the neediest. Governor Quinn
has directed the state to start paying on time- back owed and a 30-day
timeline.
Also, The University of Chicago is holding an summit of community
organizations in April to discuss the problems and civic organizations
will also be meeting with key providers.
Representative
Currie says social and other state services face a crisis. See Budget
Report 2 June 29, 2009.
At
its April board meeting, the Conference funded the transit pass part
of a Hyde Park Neighborhood Club summer program introducing teens
to our whole city and to navigating its transit system. Visit Teen
Summer Program page.
The
Club reports it has been in the black nearly all recent months
but must still raise
more money and put in place means of steady income by about May 2009
to stay open. Donations in its current drive are over $100,000 and
it has received some grants. Leaders say they are making headway.
It is working hard on accounts receivable and payable, fundraising,
and new partnerships and has been able to update and expand its offerings.
Is there enough will to keep in Hyde Park a center for the general
population of all incomes and interests, after school programs and
seniors? Or just places for specialized interests that fit an "upscale"
image? Over $47,000 has been raised so far.
About: See the News
of Collaborers page. Visit their website for mid-October update,
including how to give: http://www.hpnclub.org.
THE
BLUE GARGOYLE HAS CLOSED AT THE END OF APRIL 2009. A MAJOR BLOW TO
THE COMMUNITYL. See News
of Collaborers for the story and various takes.
Education
programs at risk include the highly successful Pilot Enrichment Program
of the U of C, with a broad menu of services and offerings. It is
entirely funded by the state.
Some
of our favorite events and institutions are in jeopardy with the economy
and drying up or cutback of government, corporation, and foundation
funds and spending. Chicago's Depts. of Cultural Affairs and Special
Events have already nearly dropped support for neighborhood events.
Herald
says more businesses and nonprofits are in financial trouble, likes
way Hyde Park Art Center handled its:
we
predict that, until the economy recovers, we have to brace for similar
revelations from other nonprofits -- and for-profit businesses --
in the community to follow suit. Hyde Parkers need to circle our
wagons. Let's look at our charitable donations and think about how
much more we can give locally. Let's think about when we leave the
neighborhood to shop and why -- and reconsider. There are many new,
interesting retail establishments that have popped up in Hyde Park
in recent years. Are we shopping elsewhere out of necessity or habit?
We
applaud both Thurow and the Hyde Parkers who raised concerns about
the choice he made. This is Hyde Park in action. Should our prediction
prove accurate - and we hope it does not --we hope and expect that
both residents and institutional leaders will demonstrate the capacity
for stewardship that this event has evinced -- by both the leadership
at the art center and the Hyde Parkers who recreate there.
What
happens when Springfield woes are expected to negatively impact our
communities and services? Our board members go to the source: Mr.
Nekimken goes to Springfield.
Talking
with Our State Representatives. From the July 2009 Conference
Reporter. By David Nekimken. (Note: Mr. Nekimken represented himself;
the Conference spends no substantial part of its revenues on "lobbying.")
Early
in the morning of April 22, forty hearty Southsiders loaded a bus
to go to Springfield to lobby our representatives about bills of
interest. The trip was sponsored by SOUL and SEIU. We were part
of 1,000 people from around the state on this beautiful spring lobby
day. We talked to a few representatives at the Capitol, Barbara
Flynn Currie and Julie Hamos (Evanston) to name a couple. We urged
them to authorize $1 million for an alternative/feasibility study
for the Gold Line and for the green jobs training initiative. They
were sympathetic, if there were firsts the revenue. To this end
we urged them to support the revenue initiative for an increase
of the state income tax rate (from 3% to 5%) and to make it more
progressive. The day was long, and it was a learning experience.
Perseverance, persistence, and patience is needed when working with
our elected officials. We hold them accountable for their actions;
we need to hold ourselves accountable to responsible citizens.
Development
and Zoning issues.
See
our Development-Preservation-Zoning
Committee mid-year report on where we are going. From the July
2009 Conference Reporter. See a report on Hyde
Park during and at the end of 2008.
Efforts
of owners to change zoning of two lots in Kenwood's historic district
on 50th St. to allow two houses a bit wider but with considerably
more sq footage (said necessary for the market) were heard at a public
meeting December 2. There was strong opposition. Another meeting will
be held in January. Zoning
Proposals page. HPKCC' Preservation Committee in general would
like to see a modern remapping before any spot zoning.
In January, Ald. Preckwinkle assured homeowners and Kenwood Open House
Committee the proposal had been withdrawn.
Alderman
Hairston will expedite zoning to allow serving of liquor in the restaurants
on the south side of 55th St. 1600 block. The requisite meetings have
been held.
Doctors
(Illinois Central) Hospital Hotel Plans; in other development news
39th
Precinct liquor local option impacting Drs Hospital-"DRY"
SO FAR LEADS 249-228 (21 plurality in 477) VOTES, but clarification
being sought as there are a reported 12 challenged votes and some
absentee ballots. A RECOUNT AND OR LITIGATION MAY ENSUE.
Ald. Hairston and UC VP say the project is dead. In a letter to the
Herald, Bruce White made it clear there will be no hotel project.
August
5 the clock was in theory restarted on Doctors Hospital as Alderman
Hairston announced at a public meeting that there is no plan as she
had "walked away" from the developers and the hotel proposal
of the U of C and White Lodging for 5800 S. Stony Island.
Alderman Hairston had rejected the original UC/White Lodging concept
after presentation of an alternative plan to reuse this Orange-rated
structure, by a preservation architect J. G. Johnson engaged by Landmarks
Illinois and Hyde Park Historical Society. She said the parties
had returned to the table and now wanted to hear residents' ideas
on what kind of development they wanted. In comments the majority
was still irked either a hotel or other large/commercial development
in this residential area, or to demolition of the historic building,
or to White's labor record. But many disagreed and want something
like or modified from the original proposal.
The
Herald, South East Chicago Commission, and the Hyde Park Chamber of
Commerce have come out in opposition to voting the Hospital's precinct
dry; the latter two in favor of the Hotel project. A lawsuit challenging
the dry petition was dropped.
The
developers agreed to complete or make public various impact studies
as timely (some can't be done unless the project goes into
design) and to meet with those with alternative ideas and
to hold another meeting with concept drawings taking into account
public ideas and comments. Note that White's spokesman has made it
quite clear that the project is marginal and they will not/cannot
spend the money do reuse of the old building (preservation credits
or not), or do "great" architecture, or consider neutrality
toward workers organizing.
Read Doctors Hospital
page.
Village
Center (E. HP Blvd./Lake Park) plans were rolled-out at the July 14
TIF meeting.
Antheus
Properties' Eli Ungar and team including Studio Gang Architects and
Graham Grady of Bell, Boyd and Lloyd presented July 14 a large redevelopment
plan for the shopping center, consisting of a mid rise of mixed retail
(national and local) and residential on Lake Park, extending along
Hyde Park 4 stories including a glass, open-view (including to view
from Metra) passage to a 24 story tower at the northwest corner, and
a hidden 519 story lower and third level garage and a line of smaller
shops along Harper. Whether the project is done at once depends on
willingness of Village Foods to vacate its lease; also on rate and
pace of leasing. Ungar expected good luck at enticing several retailer
to come to this larger, 2.5 acre site--indeed, retail publications
are speculating on growing likelihood of retail redevelopment in Hyde
Park. Ungar also addressed to general satisfaction of the meeting
the growing community consensus on standards, desires and expectations
in a development, including commitment to 15% affordable units.
More in Antheus.
The report of the TIF Committee on Planning and Development
(meeting attended by c35) was given at the 53rd TIF Advisory Council
meeting September 8. Despite vigorous objection from Village Foods
(either adamant or for negotiations, which they say have
not advanced in a year and a half), the Advisory Council approved
the project. A suit was filed in December by Village Foods
alleging business interference.
August 18 about 35 met to consider the plan with the TIF
Planning and Development Subcommittee, chair Chuck Thurow.
After team presentation, there was lots of q and a on such issues
as massing, density,scale, store uses, residential types, interaction
with street and sidewalk, traffic circulation, and parking. Added
detail included ongoing conversation with large grocers to make sure
this current function and competition are not lost. If Village Foods
stays in the west section for now, only about 3-4 years would go by
before that part is developed. The sense was of general approval.
Thurow will send notes to those on his email list ahead of his report
to the September 8 TIF meeting.
For
more, interim, news on the July 14 TIF meeting see 1st par. below
and What's Going On in Community
News.
Harper
Court
At
the end of 2008 the University of Chicago bought Hollywood Video (since
closed) at 53rd and Lake Park from the owner of Valois. The university
says it has not decided whether to combine the property with the Harper
Court Area redevelopment. See Harper
Court Sale. About
the Finalists.
March
17 2009- Crain's announces the 5 finalists:
11
responses were received to the RFQ by the deadline of January 26,
2009. They have since been winnowed to 5 or 6 who will be preparing
proposals due in May. All are said to have a graduate student component
and 2 to have hotels. Presentations by finalists will be at the
September 2009 TIF meeting.
Some
disagree strongly with the University decision to empty and demolish
the shopping center this summer. Will some tenants try to stick
it out?
Needing clarified is whether "graduate housing" would
satisfy a "20 percent affordable" component promised for
any housing part of the project getting TIF subsidy-- and whether
it should. Gary Ossewaarde
U
of C, city name finalists for mixed-use project
(Crain’s) — The city of Chicago and the University of
Chicago have cut the field of real estate firms competing for a
proposed mixed-use redevelopment of the Harper Court shopping center
to five developers. The finalists, picked from a field of 11 teams,
will submit proposals to redevelop a nearly three-acre site at 53rd
Street and Lake Park Avenue in Hyde Park. A spokeswoman for the
city’s Department of Community Development confirms that the
five finalists are:
• Block 37 developer Chicago-based Joseph Freed & Associates
LLC.
•
A joint venture of Chicago-based developer McCaffery Interests Inc.
and Skokie-based Taxman Corp.
• A joint venture of Chicago-based Mesa Development and Chicago
construction giant Walsh Group.
• Chicago-based developer Metropolitan Properties of Chicago
LLC, a firm better known for its residential condominium conversions
of older downtown office buildings.
• Vermilion Development Inc., a small Danville firm that opened
a Chicago office last year.
The
winning bidder is expected to be selected this fall. The project
would provide a developer “with a unique opportunity to creatively
reshape this area into a cohesive, active neighborhood core,”
according to a request for qualifications issued in December. In
broad outlines, city and university officials are seeking a retail/residential
development that would include a parking structure for 170 to 400
cars.
The site includes the shopping center, which would be demolished,
and an adjacent city-owned parking lot. The project is expected
to preserve an existing 14,300-square-foot building at 5201 S. Harper
Court, which houses the Park 52 restaurant and the Checkerboard
Lounge blues club. The project’s cost could be offset with
a tax-increment financing subsidy, according to the request for
qualifications.
The site has an appraised value of $7.55 million, but a developer’s
“purchase price is an important but not primary consideration”
for the city and the university, the RFQ says.
In
December 2008 HPKCC sent the University and Ald. Preckwinkle
letters on development issues, including Harper Court. Harper
Court (including difficulty for leaving tenants and desire for some
incubator space)was among matters discussed by the HPKCC Board with
U of C VP Lipinski at its January 8 meeting.
12 Proposals have been submitted, according to Susan Campbell reported
in the Chicago Maroon.
At the January 12 2009 TIF meeting, Susan Campbell announced that
leases for remaining tenants have been extended to June. (At least
one tenant says ability to relocate in that time if at all will be
difficult.) The RFP call is in progress, initial extended to January
26. Alderman Preckwinkle said that the semifinal selectees will present
their vision for Harper Court Area, not just the selected finalist.
To
Announcement of and
link to Harper Court Area RFQ/RFP, released by City of Chicago
and University of Chicago December (8) 12, 2008.
December 17 the pre-bid informational meeting was held. Somewhere
between 6 to 10 teams showed up and asked good questions. The RFP
document and the presentation emphases were as expected, including
the points stressed by the TIF committee, community, and HPKCC. These
included special conditions of Hyde Park the area and the site. (The
University hedged a bit on incubator space, but variety, mix of scales,
core-gateway-destination and day-night vibrancy were stressed as well
as serving needs of the area.) Recommended FAR was 2.5 to 5 allowing
for density and height in some places like along Lake Park, and keeping
and open space. (A good-looking sample that looked like Aaron Cook's
charette was shown.) The city, it was revealed, vetoed mid-course
multiple presentations by proposers, but it was emphasized that the
community would be involved and the project would have to pass owner
and community muster in the end. A new sweetener was University commitment
to use 100,000 to 150,000 sq ft of office space, and the possibility
of some of the residential space for graduate students (assuming,
the spokesman indicated afterwards, grad students can afford it).
A lot of the questions were on parking and on the potential haz-mat
problems found by a Phase I survey. And the time table is to get selection
and signing this year.
November
18 2008 the city's Community Development Commission met with the University
and approved the RFQ/RFP for Harper Court Area to go out Dec. 8. November
19 the University released the same.
The process is expected to take at least 24 months, RFQ due May 11.
Asking price $7.7 million or $61 per sq. ft. See the Harper
Court page on what a UC spokesperson hopes for from Harper Court.
Others are asking what's the hurry to empty out, tear down now?
A
block-building exercise, well attended, on November 15 included Harper
Court. Participants
were able to place retail, residential and open space in a way that
passed fiscal and standards tests of developers, planners, and real
estate experts-- including ideas that were low rise, not just those
that had mid rises in one sector. Findings
Report.
The
university has informed tenants they must be out of Harper Court by
the end of January 2009 and demolition is expected to start after
that. Evictions are underway. The University declined any temporary
uses for the spaces (citing condition), contrary to community request
to stop creating paper-windowed vacancies and vacant lots. The solicitation
of developers is expected to take longer and involve, the University
says, community input. Harper Theater could be included. The
University says the buildings' state and their increasing vacancy
have created an untenable situation. There is complaint of short time
and inadequate help for current tenants or for useful and viable businesses
that can't afford hefty rent. A major art cooperative in the Court
has been declined help by the University as an unviable business.
There is no word on the future of two destination ethnic restaurants.
The veterinarian expects to get help from the University. Community
organizations had insisted help for current tenants in the redevelopment
of a public-purpose asset whose mission has been pushed aside.
In
September 2008, Alderman Preckwinkle told the HPKCC Annual meeting
that she expects the RFQ/RFP process to go forward, with a developer
selected by possibly next summer, and tenants have been moving out.
Informed speculation from others is that the University is expected
to empty Harper Court in the next few months, perhaps with varying
willingness to provide new space for current businesses, and that,
whether quickly torn down or not, the property may stay empty a long
time, expressed developer interest or not. The Theater may be bundled
into the RFP.
At
the July 14 2008 TIF meeting, TIF Plg. and Dev. Chair Chuck Thurow
expanded upon and pushed his committee's strengthening revisions (after
a May meeting) to the draft guidelines for Harper Court Area RFQ/RFP.
There was general approval from the audience. Tim Brangle of Chicago
Consultants Studio echoed these high standards and Hyde Park-consistent
principles-- as did also presentation from the UC Student Committee
on Retail. Timetable indicated below continues on track.
See public comments on the city's draft guidelines for Harper Court
Area RFP at: http://www.vision53.org/index.html.
Little
new was presented at the Sept. 8 TIF meeting. Background:
At
the May 12 2008 TIF meeting, Ald. Preckwinkle and representatives
of the University of Chicago, City of Chicago and Chicago Consultants
Studio announced that the University of Chicago has purchased
Harper Court for $6.5 million, is taking the lead in this and other
53rd redevelopment. University administrators indicated that the purchase
brings a guaranteed renter for student and office uses, critically
drawing more developer interest, and the the University has been said
to be considering expansion of the footprint and pursuing its own
agenda--but we have no information so indicating. At that meeting,
a city-proposed draft guidelines for Harper Court Area RFQ/RFP was
introduced prior to expected late-fall issue of RFP. During a comment
period, the TIF planning committee (in open session), HPKCC and others
offered substantial revision, acknowledged at the July TIF meeting.
View all comments at http://www.vision53.org/index.html.
Stay tuned.
Visit
Harper Court homepage,
TIF Advisory Council
Notes and Minutes homepage. View draft
guidelines. HPKCC
comments as in June 11 Hyde Park Herald.
TIF Plg.-Dev.
Committee revised draft. Harper
Court Area home. (Note-Next TIF meeting is September 8, 7 pm at
Kenwood Academy Little Theater, 5015 S. Blackstone.)
The
HPKCC/TIF Harper Court Priorities Web Survey Results
are online at hydepark.org/survey.
There were 1,700 responses and over 70 pages of comments and
ideas. Thanks to all who participated. Also visit Harper
Court home page. Next step: description and opening of comment
period on draft RFQ/RFP
Watch
for update: Also, The Harper Court Arts Council, following its
sale of the shopping center to the University in April 2008, announced
in June that it has a new mission, bylaws, and expanded board (3 added
to existing 6) with guarantee of expertise and openness. The dual
purpose is to continue (the original purpose of) diversified properties
and programs necessary for artisans, craftsmen, educational, recreational
and other services offered on a commercial or not-for-profit basis
and to support, benefit and provide for the promotion of the arts
with specific emphasis in the Hyde Park Kenwood communities through
grants and sponsorships to community based groups and individuals.
The Arts Council is again issuing grants for arts groups and community
development- see HPAC
page.
A
new round of community forums and workshops have been held about Harper
Court and its Request for Proposals. Reports,
plus more in Harper Court page. This is a joint project of the
53rd Street TIF and Hyde Park-Kenwood Community Conference (contact
George Rumsey), commissioned by
Alderman Preckwinkle.
The
above is part of a new community-wide open process on 53rd Street
+ Future (building on the well- attended December 8 53rd St.
Vision Workshop-view reports in http://www.vision53.org).
HPKCC's Development Committee and 53rd Street Future steering committee
worked with The TIF Business District Environment Committee to develop
and recommend an open community planning process in conjunction with
the city RFP process. DONE: COMPILE WHAT HAS BEEN SAID, CONDUCT A
SURVEY, HOLD AN INFO MEETING ON RFP. COMMISSIONED BY HPKCC SEPARATELY
HAS BEEN A PHYSICAL VISION SET OF WORKSHOPS.
HPKCC was a commissioner of a physical visioning process for a new
Harper Court with planners and architectural firms. Planning also
continues led by the TIF for a next 53rd (and beyond) Vision Workshop.
Visit 53rd
Vision and Development News, Development
details and opinions, Development
navigator, and TIF
News homepage which includes more about important neighborhood
links on these topics. Visit Reports and data from 2006
HPKCC Harper Court forums. Summary
doc. of past priorities input. See also the January 2008 TIFormation
text. 2000
Vision for Hyde Park Retail District.
HPKCC's
Harper Court forums spring 2006 generated many ideas and a set of
principles, endorsed by HPKCC board and recognized widely as part
of the "prior studies" on future of 53rd retail. HPKCC has
held that we must not lose sight of these principles: continue to
include the original small business purpose, take care of current
tenants, have a public process on development, and have a more broadly
based board and oversight of the assets from sale. Visit reports on
February 26 forum in Harper
Court home. See
Survey results.
Visit the full reports, data and derived community principles from
the HPKCC 2006 Harper Court Forums:
In text version
May 06 Reporter; pdf
version. Summary
doc. of past Priorities inputs.
HPKCC Harper Court Reports
online, HPKCC Harper
Court workshops and reports.
Ideas and Principles. Tribune October 14 2007: chicagotribune.com/classified/realestate/news/chi-mxa1014hydeparkoct14,0,6146963.story.
53rd Street Visioning process, Development
Yes,
53rd
Street is active again--with hope of being done well. Ald.
Preckwinkle, 53rd TIF, several partnering community organizations
including HPKCC, Chicago Dept. of planning, and CMAP regional planning
agency have held two Vision Workshops (Dec. 8 2007 and May
3 2008), with plans for a block-building exercise
Nov. 15. Results of the Dec. 8 meeting is on line at http://www.vision53.org.
See notes
and views from the May 3 Workshop, incl. links to see 53rd evaluation
pictures. Report on the May
12 TIF meeting, and our reports on the Dec. 8 meeting in 53rd
Street page (link at start) and final in Dec.
8 2007 page. The Development
Navigator will lead you to more pages and links.
To May
3 reports page. See pictures taken
by workshop with comments at http://www.flickr.com/photos/26852843@N07/
The
third session, a block-creating exercise with developers and planners
occurred November 15, with a large crowd. Results were addressed by
a panel at the January 12 TIF meeting. See
excepts
from the Report. See pics from the Nov. 15 Block exercise: picasaweb.google.com/crcrumsey/53rdStreetVisionsBLOCKS
or http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/DK_JZJ9p9XK0utKiVEvRug
The
Vision final report is also in the set of exhibits of the Harper Court
Area RFP- to
link.
The
Leal L3 Proposed Plan Development for 53rd and Cornell
The
original plan has been modified to 20 stories, retail and rental housing
with 15% affordable units onsite. Close q and a were held at the May
12 2008. TIF meeting. Details in the 53rd
Leal page. There are differences whether this project will go
forward; some neighbors oppose.
Harper
Theater: The University announced in May 2008 a setback and termination
of the developer
In
January 2008, Preservation Illinois joined Landmarks Illinois (September)
in proclaiming the Harper Theater buildings worthy of landmarking
and preservation, and among the Chicago area's most endangered. The
U of C has not closed the door on another try at adaptive reuse. See
in Harper
Theater RFP.
Tuesday,
November 18 scaffolding started going up around the Theater, for stabilization
and public safety, but perhaps to also get people ready for demolition.
The
University says the buildings are deteriorated to
the point of public safety issue. But an offer for an independent
structural study was turned down.
Nov. 19 HPKCC joined the HP Historical Society in recommending landmark
status and retention with adaptive rehab for the buildings to the
Commission on Chicago Landmarks.
There
has been disagreement over causes, but any version points to difficulties
attracting quality businesses and some disagreement of lack of clarity
over what the community and owner want for the business district.
The University is considering its options. Theater
buildings project page. Background
on the theater, prospect for theaters. An
update from the University was given at the September 8 TIF meeting.
The University was still deciding what to do. (Not part of presentation?)
it was noted that the structure is rapidly deteriorating. In September
the University has not stated an intention but is expected to tear
it down (citing deterioration) with no redevelopment in sight, contrary
to what community organizations have asked. It may be combined with
Harper Court RFP. Community input is promised, but the University
has declined to take part in a public discussion, to have any temporary
uses rather than papered window vacancies.
In mid 2009, a jointly supported effort coordinated by Southside Preservation
Action Fund was seeking to have a structural analysis from the firm
last used by the former University developer, which would then be
presented to the University then the public.
Other
development news including zoning (see list of all that's in play in
Development
Committee page) and the University of Chicago's role
Antheus
Capital has bought the Shoreland and is reworking plans for renovation
(after the UC dorm goes out in fall 2009), but it will be for rental.
And received Board of Education approval for a land swap and improvements
to Bret Harte School. Antheus will make the Del Prado and East Lake
View friendly to aging in place and with an accessible tier in the
Del Prado, but market rate.
Antheus
also seeks liquor rezoning for the restaurants in its buildings on
55th (approved), in the Del Prado (part before Zoning Appeals) and
for 1350 E. 53rd (endorsed by TIF Council). More
on these and other Local Option spot liquor license zoning as a tool
to promote or stop development, page and Spot
Zoning page.
St.
Stephens Church went up for auction Nov. 20. [Note-
delayed to late January to give Gus Antoniou time to sign
a partner for the $1.5 million note. The enticement is that another
owner would lose benefit of the agreement signed with residents and
so revert to R-1 zoning (single family or few townhouses). However,
there is already a neighbor blocking a deal and A. needs a building
permit which isn't filed and may have to circumvent the agreement-
even though he told the Herald he changed no of units to 12 (starting
at $1.2 million) from 20 and put parking on one level.]
In
an editorial September 24, the Herald called on the University for
neighborly gestures to show it will be open with plans and to community
views and needs.
The
TIF Bus/Envir. Committee is working with others for building occupancy
and spruce up, short and long term and to help businesses needing
relocation, especially with the possibility that Harper Court will
be emptied in the next few months.
Fifth/Third
bank has been selected to fill the Osco site on 53rd between Dorchester
and Kenwood. The builder's spokesperson says the project to increase
minority ownership and training is in accord with the community vision
of the Urban League and Alderman. Whether it is in accord with a general
vision for 53rd retail redevelopment will be seen. The
bank should open in September. The future of the Washington Mutual
branch is in doubt after the national was purchased by Chase, which
has a branch in nearby Kimbark Plaza.
The
University of Chicago's large and accelerating presence, ownership,
and redevelopment leadership are key questions in development and
quality of community considerations. These considerations crop up
throughout the debates and so throughout our pages. As
the atmosphere clears a bit, this site will be in better position
to offer a summary and assessment. Meanwhile, a serious row
has broken out with 3rd Ward Alderman Pat Dowell over University buying
up property around the Garfield (Olympics) Green Line station with,
she asserts, inadequate community consultation and considerate. See
Development.
The area aldermen met in September 2008 with U of C President Robert
Zimmer and hope a collaborative and at least communicative relationship
can be established.
Elsewhere
(see
Development
details page): Giordano's Pizza and Restaurant at
Blackstone south of 53rd will preserve its facade, remodel and add
a floor.
The University has bought Chicago Theological Seminary and
will build/facilitate a new structure for it at Dorchester north of
61st (community garden) and one for Meadville School south of 61st
Street. CTS's current building will house a new economic
interdisciplinary and policy institute named for Milton Friedman.
Co-op Bookstore will stay at least until the new building is complete.
The University is expected to buy nearby Meadville School for unknown
purpose, and has converted 5710 Woodlawn into a state of the art center
for minority and specialty life. The University is also moving ahead
on a mostly underground library addition and a $700
million modern Raphael Vinoly-designed hospital complex
for the south side of 57th St. between Drexel and Cottage Grove. .
For University statements see our University
Projects and University
and Community pages.)
University
assumption of operations of Quadrangle Club (as Sustaining Member
with power to select a new board and management company) are in place,
but with a couple years of remodeling nd reorganization in progress.
It is possible that in the
future thee could be bundling of the tennis court and 5731 University
for a new structure (likely a student union). See Quadrangle
Club page.
Our Development
Navigator will lead you to more pages and links.
Park
Advisory Council Guidelines, general
parks
A
general appeal: several of our parks have volunteer days or need for
stewards and tour guides. For example, Washington Park's arboretum
sanctuary and other natural areas. Call Madiem
Kawa.
Alderman
Hairston saved 100 free parking spaces at 63rd St. Beach from her
aldermanic menu.
New
council guidelines were proposed by the Park District. Councils allowed
to review the original draft found them unacceptable. Councils met
with the District April 4 and found substantial agreement
and a collaborative process.
Revised guidelines were reviewed jointly by a Council Overview
Committee in July and reflect these improvements. Further refinements
led to what apparently is a final draft possibly passed by the Park
District Board. There is tightening up, oversight and more
work, but the relationship between CPD and these community-based,
mostly elected small organizations will be preserved and go forward.
Stories and HPKCC letter to the park district- see Park
Issues page. For a vexing problem area, see the Kenwood
Park and Council page. There is still concern about requirements
for Volunteer Applications.
CPD
is set to cut up to 300 jobs - and another 600 in 2010--to close huge
budget deficit- impact of cuts already made are serious and involve
a mess for day camp management in some parks. The proposed budget
is now on line at their website.
Kenwood Park Advisory
Council
Kenwood
Park Usage Calendar view link.
September
16 a group of 10 stakeholders convened by Ald. Preckwinkle and HPKCC's
George Rumsey met and 9-1 endorsed a slate for the September 24 council
meeting and election, September 24, 7 pm, St. Paul and the Redeemer.
Nominated for chair was Sophia King (active in Kenwood Improvement
Association), Vice President Julie Marie Lemon,
(outgoing KPAC president), Secretary Kim DuBuclet (on Friends of the
Parks Policy Committee),and Treasurer Leslie Gatton
(active in St. Paul and the Redeemer Church). See Steering Committee's
September Letter to Hyde Park Herald in the Kenwood
Park page.
This slate was overwhelmingly elected by the c. 45 persons in attendance
Sept. 24. The council will usually meet 3rd Wednesdays, but November
19, 7 pm, St. Paul and Redeemer Byllesby Room (east side)-this is
as change.
Over 100 residents turned out for a meeting on ball park size, use,
schedules at Kenwood Community Park January 9. Alderman Preckwinkle
announced and supported a resolution by baseball, soccer, and the
Park District that all parties recognized as inevitably sub-optimum
in a park with high demand for usage. Many residents objected (and
continue) on grounds of excusive uses and stress to the park, users,
and area, as well as because of process. All praise the work of the
sports teams in providing kids life and physical skills and alternatives
to the streets.
The
Advisory Council, along with other councils, will hold new elections
in coming months. This is complicated because the bylaws of this council,
which have attendance requirements for voting (something like 4th
meeting within last 12), is suspended, and there is mutual suspicion
that attempts will be made to pack the first/elections meeting.
This
website has maintained an informal running page on Kenwood
Park Advisory Council and Park for at least 8 years. Petition
drives on the expansion issue are heating up. Park district spokespersons
have said the council has not been decertified in any manner despite
dispute over paperwork and is not being singled out; there have been
other expressions that it was. The Conference takes any attempts to
manipulate or control councils, as well as inconsistent Park District
procedures, most seriously and has also weighed in on the question
of appropriate guidelines for councils and proper park district interaction
with councils and communities. It has not taken a position on the
council's standing or the dispute over the ball field expansion, but
Conference president will head one of several open Kenwood Park committees
set up by Alderman Preckwinkle with approval of KPAC members and the
Conference board. The Council will hold its election September 24.
The Usage Committee convened by Alderman Preckwinkle met six
times and framed 7 recommendation to be presented to the advisory
council, the park district, and Alderman Preckwinkle. To Usage
Committee reports. More on this in the Kenwood
Park Advisory Council page. Please
complete a Park
Use Form.
Olympics
Community
meetings about impacts, opposition, constructive support, benefits
agreements are now being regularly held, and are up in calendar above
or our Community
Meetings calendar.
To
our Olympics homepage. The Olympic final Bid went out and was
released Feb. 13, along with those of two of the 3 remaining cities
(Rio's was to come out Feb. 16.), with few differences. The "oral"
presentation to the IOC is April 2-7. Updates online- http://www.chicagogames.com.
Renderings there and in : http://www.chicagotribune.com/bid,
others. http://www.Chicago2016.org.
****June
2009 the Mayor said he will sign the open-ended financial commitment
part of the Olympic Agreement. This has caused criticism from some
circles.
Also, Washington Park (neighborhood) Consortium completed a quality-of-life
plan that counts on the Olympics to spark change but expresses fears
over what kinds of changes will happen, and whether there will be
full community input.
June
and July 2009, a subgroup of HPKCC and Hyde Park Historical Society
considered the future of Washington Park should it be developed
as an Olympic venue. A proposed statement was developed, subsequently
adopted by the HPHS board, then the HPKC Parks Committee, then adopted
in the form of a resolution by the HPKCC Board of Directors July
2:
Whereas:
Hyde Park-Kenwood Community Conference respects the interests
of the City of Chicago in its desire to host the 2016 Olympics
but believes the preservation of historic Washington Park, as
it was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, is of utmost importance,
and
Whereas:
The use of Washington Park as the site for the Olympic Stadium
would pose a serious and long-term threat to the historic and
ecological integrity of the park and to the continued democratic
use of the park by the public,
Therefore
Be It Resolved: Hyde Park-Kenwood Community urges the City of
Chicago and Chicago 2016 to respect historic Washington Park by
selecting a more appropriate venue for the 2016 Olympics.
March
27 2009. After two days of discussions and various changes and compromises,
the City Council Finance Committee reported unanimously
a Community Benefits Agreement and Memorandum of Agreement with
Chicago 2016, covering all Olympics projects.
At its April 2 board meeting, HPKCC reviewed the agreement,
with disappointment at many aspects (including omission of provision
for transportation/access, schools, open space, and anything for
Hyde Park), but did not pass a resolution of opposition to the planned
Olympics. Main elements of the CBA:
•
30% minority or disabled (the latter may be a first) and 10% women
contractors- bumped up 5% each at the last minute despite state
and 2016 commitment and normal city commitment on these kinds of
projects to the lesser amounts and 2016 being a private entity
• Jobs also appear to have the same standard, with a scorecard
to be worked out for this and the above involving distance, pre
training, apprenticeships (this at least 10%). In its construction
of venues and the Olympic Village itself, the Olympic bid committee
will try to insure that apprentices provide 10 percent of all construction
hours worked. There will also be regional boundaries for local hiring
preferences at the Olympic Venues, which are a one mile radius around
the Olympic Village, the Olympic Stadium, the velodrome in Douglas
Park and the aquatic facility in Washington Park. The city and Olympic
Committee will also work to create job training and business development
to prepare people and small businesses
• 20% at least affordable housing with commitment to try to
make 30%, in the Olympic Village. No reference to other private
or public projects within radii around both the village and the
Washington Park projects, as had been proposed by CEO, SOUL and
other groups
• Displacement- substitution of "development of a principle
of no direct displacement of any resident of the city as a result
of the 2016 games" rather than original language for adequate
market-rate compensation (indirect is apparently not covered and
neither direct nor indirect displacement are at least yet defined)
• Transportation. Gold Line Metra South Chicago upgrade was
dropped. There have been varying reports as to whether and what
transportation and access upgrades (such as el stops and stations
or trolleys) or adequacy is promised. Apparently, plans to upgrade
or place underground 55th/Morgan Dr. have been dropped-- it will
just be closed off.
• No commitment to schools, open space or parks.
• No commitment to have TIF advisory councils or open process,
although 2016 has recently expanded its communities committee from
a handful to about 80 and promises lots of meetings. Ald. Burke
asserts there will be lots of revisits to the ordinance.
Some
groups may protest diminutions (including most for Hyde Park-South
Shore left out except some jobs), failure to pass City Council before
the IOC visit, but Ald. Preckwinkle told the Tribune the latter
was not a problem due to 2016 public agreement.
Late
March 2009: Several difficulties have raised questions about Chicago's
bid, but apparently the city's lack of an unconditional guarantee
against losses will be waived and details of revenue-sharing between
the IOC and USOC will be pushed off til about 2013.
Consternation continues among many who have slogged through the Bid
Book at deliberate use of boiler plate instead of clear plans-- and
mandy of them say the plans, especially from moving people around
are unfeasible and the whole proposal neither environmentally nor
socially sustainable.
Meanwhile, the city has bumped paving on Payne and Rainey Drives in
Washington Park, likely to be seen by the IOC in April, ahead of other
arterials.
By
mid April 2009, the size of the residual stadium in Washington Park
had shrunk from c5-7000 to about 2,500 and 2016 was promising it would
not interfere with full return of the Meadow and Olmsted's vision--
2016 would "negotiate."
December
12: The aquatics center moves to Washington Park, leaving the smaller
warm up pool as a permanent legacy. (Friends of the badly-needed
year round pool in the neighborhood.) Hockey moves from soccer
fields near lagoons to somewhere near Hyde Park Academy. Sailing moves
from the 31st harbor under construction to Burnham Harbor, leaving
a youth sailing facility as legacy. Details will be kept under wraps
until after the bid goes in, in February. Meanwhile aldermen held
up approval of purchase of the Michael Reese Hospital site as a "message"
to 2016.
Community
benefits agreements espec. for the Village (Michael Reese) area have
been introduced by 5 aldermen- Preckwinkle, Cochran, Dowell, Hairston,
and Jackson, but are under siege in the Finance Committee (chair Ald.
Burke) despite 27 nominal backers. The aldermen are seeking to get
the document reported out for action ahead of the April 2 2009 arrival
of the International Olympic Committee. Incentive
is to give Chicago something to match the cachets of other bidders
and Olympics cities, including green and social sustainability and
strong transportation. The three main components of the proposed
CBA are 1) 30 percent real affordable housing for the structures after
the Village is done, Readiness and training for sustainable jobs (10%
apprenticeships) plus 50% MWBE, the Metra Gold Line including a Bronzeville
stop plus other transportation enhancements.
HPKCC,
others in neighborhoods around the proposed Olympic stadium in Washington
Park, as well as Jackson Park Advisory Council have met with the 2016
Olympic Committee. A small HPKCC delegation met with the Park District
August 21 2007. Stressed was many neighbors' opposition or serious
questions and need to go the communities, including the "must"
of infrastructure upgrade. Read
about Olympics in our area, viewpoints, and our meeting. See Chicago2016's
Applicant Bids at http://www.Chicago2016.com/.
See HPKCC's
submitted questions and concerns. So far only a few organizations
(such as the Urban League) schools (e.g. DePaul) and foundations have
come forward to conduct or fund research and assistance for impacted
neighborhoods. In our Olympics homepage find a report on findings
of Commission on Housing Rights and Evictions and how community organizations
can seek benefits agreements and other firm, pass-along commitments
to precautionary measures that tie into UN, IOC and other mandates
so communities are left better rather than worse.
Ald. Hairston has restarted local conversation and formed
subject committees- The whole convenes 4th Thursdays, 6:30 Jackson
Park Fieldhouse (next tba). Details in Olympics
page. April 24 meeting saw serious concerns about impacts
and restoration (esp. since post Dan Ryan repairs to Stony Island
were rescinded: Ald. Hairston said "Somebody is making
these decisions who is not our neighbor,... I'm cautious
when people from outside the community come in and tell me what the
use is." Yet there are increasing efforts to band together,
research and engage. On the question of business and community benefits
and participation, one set of recommendations is that of the Urban
League, at http://www.thechicagourbanleague.org.
Among focuses of subsequent meetings: transportation and parking
impacts and access (see 2nd par. below
on an option for Metra Electric enhancement that is gaining traction),
preserving housing stock (incl. aging high rises) from values-driven
conversions, and developing ways to promote communities and parks
and their history through, for example, markers.
Community Benefits Agreements. Asks, for legacies
such as Silver (Gray) Metra and affordable housing and avoiding negatives
for homeless and current low income residents, are sought by a number
of organizations. See Coalition
for Equitable Olympics position paper on affordable housing. A
referendum on housing passed in several precincts Nov. 4 2008 in wards
2, 3, 4, 20. There is an effort to save Gropius buildings in Michael
Reese (Olympic Village) - this will be reviewed by state commissions.
At
the July 2008 5th Ward Olympics meeting, James Withrow
of HPKCC Hyde Park Transit Task Force and Linda Thisted of Coalition
for Equitable Community Development and Interfaith Open Communities
Hyde Park presented a version of Mike Payne's "Gray Line"
(now "Silver Line) concept to integrate via leasing Metra Electric
(here South Chicago Branch) by the CTA system, with frequent L type
service and a common fare card. After familiarizing other aldermen
along the route, a request could be made for a cost and feasibility
assessment--Ald. Hairston says that as a single infrastructure upgrade
for the Olympics and in general, it makes a lot of sense and bang
for minimum dollar. Parts of the rationale include the relative
and growing density along this route from Kenwood through South Shore,
that the mid south except for Hyde Park has some of the longest commutes
to jobs in the metro region, and the solid and growing centers of
attraction and new developments along the line. Southsiders
Organized for Unity and Liberation is a large coalition that has also
adopted Metra line or "Silver Line/Gray Line Lite" as a
leading objective. SOUL is one group combining in a Communities for
an Equitable Olympics. Visit
http://alwaysintransit.typepad.com/hyde_park_urbanist/2008/08/gray-line-lite.html.
Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce and Hyde Park-Kenwood Community
Conference are separately framing and circulating letters of endorsement.
Support is growing but December 1 is suddenly 2016's deadline for
ideas for legacies, benefits, and ameliorations!, but that won't be
the end.
Alderman Preckwinkle supports but prefers to concentrate on
trolleys or light rail, which would be mainly in the Douglas area.
In general she seeks pressure to have broad-based community benefit
agreements, especially for the Village, but notes reluctance on the
part of 2016.
The draft city call on proposed Olympic Village calls for
20 percent affordable, with some advocates call insufficient in light
of expected impact on housing prices and costs on the South Side,
and MBWE participation. Nothing there, though about open
space, parks, schools, transit. Some of this is on the new Olympics
Community Benefits page. Many groups seek to
incorporate their goals- transit, affordable housing, green city,
in such community benefit agreements.
Another
question for Jackson Park is first location of the Olympic hockey
too close to sensitive natural areas and requiring new roads and second
the separate proposed sports dome for 63rd and Cornell in Jackson
Park. See special
page.
Promontory
Point Shoreline Revetment conservation controversy at 55th and Lake
Michigan
Design
study funds with preservation standard mandated authorization
was enacted into law and design may start late summer or thereafter.
Latest
Details. See Scope
of Work for Preservation-based independent review. Read past HPKCC
thoughts, letters and reports on the Point.
The
$410 b omnibus bill passed and signed in March 2009 includes $4 million
for Chicago Shoreline. This DOES NOT include funds for the authorized
3rd party review charette, which will likely be a funding bill for
fiscal 2010, according to a 5th Ward Office aide and Rep. Jackson's
office. Note that the entire shoreline protection project is currently
$60 million in the hole.
Promontory
Point- swimming and ticketing
Alderman
Hairston seeks a City Council hearing on Point and deep water swimming,
and spoke on the same at the August 13 Park District Board meeting--in
fact gave them a spanking, and "ideas" will be discussed.
Most residents seek an open swimming policy. See. including HPKCC's
letter, in our new
Point Swimming
page. After, the park district struck back with an in house legal
opinion that the present state of the revetment and swimming environment
would pose a danger to swimmers and risk of liability and lawsuits
to the district if the Point were to designated for swimming.
The
annual pattern has resumed, of police randomly ticketing those following
the hallowed tradition, seldom with problems,) of swimming off the
Point, which, granted, is not an authorized, guarded swimming area.
According to the person ticketed and witnesses, in the June 27 incident
police were also disrespectful and conducted an intrusive search.
The July 2 Herald editorial suggests invoking an aldermanic privilege:
polices and procedures could be negotiated and, "if there is
an obstacle- person or policy, we should be told exactly what it is
and how to correct it- and end what has become a tiresome and absurd
abuse of solid, law-abiding citizens."
Alderman
Hairston reported at her July 22 ward meeting that she will be working
for a resolution favorable to the swimmers (two possibilities: qualified
Lake deep swimmer ID cards, posting of lifeguards), with legal departments
looking at various suggestions. Separately, one or two lifeguards
appear to have been situated to cover deep water swimming off the
south side of the Point; heavy ticketing continues on the north side.
A south side-only solution is rejected by swimmers as unfeasible.
And there is much confusion when one tries to pay tickets for this
apparently non-listed offense- one was recently dropped by the city
at a court appearance. Alderman has asked for a City Council hearing.
HPKCC parks committee sent a letter supporting the swimmers.
Visit
for more and for Herald editorial on larger meanings, Promontory
Point Park page.
Jackson
Park challenged by proposal for a sports training dome by a private
entity.
Visit
the Domed Sports
page. At a public meeting September 8, a strong presentation
was made showing a good, sensitive, green structure and good program
that includes free after school times and youth cards, and free use
for adults in the summer. The key problem brought up is a privately-owned
and operated facility in a public park. Ald. Hairston and the presenters
made it clear that the public ownership and control will be respected
and are in negotiations with the Park District. ACE returned in January
2009 to JPAC in January with answers to some specific questions. Nevertheless,
council resolved opposition.
Vandalism in the Parks, other park touchstones
A
sad event for parks and nature was the vandalism and cut-down of 15
trees in the Burnham Nature Sanctuary at 5000 and Metra. See in Burnham
Nature Sanctuary page. In addition there are the usual spring-summer
problems in our parks with park-unfriendly or rowdy behavior and trash.
In
other park touchstones, the Jackson Park Wooded Island Working group
of stakeholders is back on course restoring biodiversity, bird friendliness,
historic template, and "enjoyability". Archeologists are
surveying footprints of the Columbian Exposition. The Washington Park
Conservancy is going full force restoring and tending natural and
other areas of the park.
But Jackson has to decide on an added sports dome facility.
Next?
Consideration of improvements to Nichols park including landscaping
on the parkway, better visibility for the front where undesired behavior
congregates, and connecting the throughway to the 55th sw gateway.
Neighborhood Groceries
Treasure
Island is now open in the former Co-op space, in the Hyde Park Shopping
Center, 1526 E. 53rd. St. Co-Op space lease signed
with Treasure Island. (We are turning a new page with the neighborhood:
visit our new page on Treasure
Island, Hyde Park Produce, and the other grocers in Hyde Park,
including a full list of grocery options in the immediate era. A steady
stream of grocers, produce stores, farmers markets, and cafes continues
to open around the neighborhoods. On the other hand, Village Foods
may have to give way for new development at E. Hyde Park and Lake
Park.
Coalition for Equitable Community Development
Kickoff
Meeting was held February 20, next meeting May 14. Contact Pat
Wilcoxen 773 643-7495 or find their website at www.iocillinois.org/.
Coverage.) Elected to the Board were
Lenora Austin, Rashon Clark-Morris, Winston Kennedy, Allison Hartman,
John Murphy, George Rumsey, Linda Thisted, Vicky Suchovsky, Pat Wilcoxen.
The board and committees have a lot of work to do. There will be another
membership meeting in the spring. Working Committees: Affordable
Housing Advocacy, Research, Fundraising, and Membership Recruitment.
Coalition
Steering Committee information
and reports page. Affordability
in Hyde Park homepage. New website:
hpkcoalition.org. Their
brochure in pdf.
Findings on the October 18 2008 forum on Olympic impacts on area housing
and February 28 and later reports on advocacy and stimulus and housing
recovery provisions are posted in our
CECD page.
Hunger
programs have seen a huge demand and increased need for contributions.
Visit
the Hunger
page. Community groups under the Interfaith Council are looking into
real ways to help homeless.
Disabilities
concerns continue; Seniors perspectives, emerging concerns on the social
and health fronts including disappearance of primary care in the immediate
area
Raising
great concern has been decisions by the University regarding what
kind of clientele it believes it should serve, closure of outlying
clinics, and efficacy of the Urban Health Initiative including whether
other providers can with quality pick up the slack.
In an interesting partial balancing, the State of Illinois and the
University of Chicago are funding upgraded and additional facilities
at Provident Hospital, Friend Center and other facilities in Chicago
to address these needs including access to quality professionals.
Nevertheless, STOP and other groups continue to rally, the next being
June 30 at the UC Ad bldg.
A
renewal and reorganization are underway and appeal for support at
Hyde Park Neighborhood Club. See in News
from Collaborators in the Community.
The Herald has carried ongoing articles, editorials and letters on
the reinvention of and need to support the Hyde Park Neighborhood
Club. The Herald compares the potential current role of the club to
institutions Hyde Parkers have invented in the past during times of
difficulty or opportunity. Visit our News
from Collaborers page and the Club's
site.
The
watchword now is "Complete Streets." Any changes
and planning must now take into account everything from property line
to property line including walks, striping, signage, proper accommodation
for all modes and needs of less-abled and elderly. See also our pages
on city requirements for sidewalk
cafes, ADA
business access. many of Hyde Park's curb cuts will be redone
this summer.
Hyde
Park Older Women's League, which is focusing on how to
make Hyde Park a more seniors-friendly community on many fronts, met
in forum with board members, the interim director, and friends of
Hyde Park Neighborhood Club at the Club May 3 to brainstorm on ways
to improve senior-friendliness in general, and how the Club can serve
seniors' needs. The energy was strong, and the conversation, and it's
hoped action, will continue. The Club is under financial strain but
determined to be truly "a place for everyone." And OWL is
open to men, too.
A
Hyde Park Task
Force for Persons with Disabilities and Their Rights continues
to monitor and as necessary take steps to encourage, for example public
(i.e. bicycles) and business (i.e. doors, service animals) compliance
and respect and infrastructure (incl. sidewalks, signals) upgrades.
See our Disabilities
and
Small business and disabilities pages. View new Federal Rules
at http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/freedominitiative/freedominitiative.html.
At
the same time there is growing concern in the community and in HPKCC
about apparent erosion of primary health care available in
the neighborhood and at University of Chicago Hospitals. UC's Windermere
Senior Health Center closes July 31. The Medical Center says that
in South Shore is newer, larger, better and Windermere was underutilized-
but that's a long drive or shuttle/bus/ambulance ride. Overall, the
sole large provider in the neighborhood, UC Medical Center,
is phasing out taking new primary care patients and its emergency
room is turning away what it judges to be non-emergency cases.
Visit www.hydeparkprogress.blogspot.com/
and http://alwaysintransit.typepad.com/hyde_park_urbanist/.
The HPKCC board agreed to seek a small meeting with the Hospitals.
Mayor
Daley April 7 put on hold closure of 4 South Side mental health clinics,
including at 63rd and Woodlawn. Stimulus funds would be used to keep
or re-open clinics while permanent funding is sought.
Also
disheartening is plans to close four public mental and other health
centers on the South Side including Woodlawn. Rallies are being held
but... (See in our Community
Meetings Calendar and in Health
Care Delivery.)
At our schools
Murray
and Canter select principals (nearly completing a turnover over the
past three years). Ray and other schools push desperately needed improvements,
programs. Local school councils work with varying success. HPKCC Schools
Committee is a support base for lsc's and schools, including with
network actions and getting out the database of after school and other
resources. Reavis received a large grant for after school
programs. Visit Schools,
About the
Schools Committee, News
of Schools, Education
Resources. Afterschool.
HPKCC Youth
Programs Database. See the next Reporter when it's up
re advancement and achievements at Kenwood Academy and on a major
project our Schools Committee is embarking upon.
See
the Schools Committee's
prospectus for a coalition for assets-building programs in our
community.
See Kenwood Academy continues to raise the bar in the Kenwood
Academy page.
Small
organizations, arts and others
While
the growth of some and appearance of new organizations, especially
arts, is a a good sign, several are having major difficulties, including
Hyde Park Art Center, Hyde Park Neighborhood Club, and the
Blue Gargoyle (which actually closed). Draconian
cuts in state funding loom and could lead to wholesale closures of
social, child and senior services. Among those that could become unviable
are Chicago Child Care Society and Centers for New Horizons.
Harper
Court Arts Council has stepped somewhat into the breach with sizable
contributions to many organizations. It has tight eligibility rules.
A meeting at and about Hyde Park Art Center in February expressed
great hope about purpose, commitment to the school, and ability to
weather the economic storm, but sadness over the lay offs and problems
with communications. Visit News
from Collaborers in the Community, Arts
News.
Parking
and Transit, Access, infrastructure
HPKCC
has requested a community meeting on reopening 57th St. Stony to Lake
Park to 2-way traffic. Such a meeting is being planned.
Conversion of the Lakefront to pay parking is still up in the air.
U
of C will be changing route 171 in East Hyde Park and adding a southwest
route into Woodlawn and Green Line some time this summer or early
fall. It is also eliminating routes 173 and 174, to downtown-Lakeview
and Red and Green lines respectively.
Stay alert for sidewalk and street work, including improved curb cuts.
It seems the state will use some stimulus money fund the first stage
feasibility study of Gold Line Metra upgrade.
South Shore (NICTD) schedules are changing drastically to accommodate
changes in use pattern (mostly increased patronage between Chicago
and Michigan City.)
Doomsday
for transit is back on the table, up to 20 percent service cuts, as
RTA was to vote at June 25 2009 meeting to tell CTA in must cut $35
million from its budget, PACE even more- (those may be draconian since
it can't cut the money-loosing paratransit it runs for the 6-county
area). Metra must downsize, but says it doesn't need to cut service
at least now.
The
watchword now is "Complete Streets." Any changes
and planning must now take into account everything from property line
to property line including walks, striping, signage, proper accommodation
for all modes and needs of less-abled and elderly. See also our pages
on city requirements for sidewalk
cafes, ADA
business access.
The
U of C has hired Solstice Transportation Group to redesign and integrate
both the CTA and evening shuttle and Safe-ride systems and bring them
into the 21st century for safety and convenience. These bring the
daytime routes at least closer to serving also the needs of Hyde park,
the 53rd-Lake Park business community, and at least north-west Woodlawn
and bringing all these and the main campus together. Not discussed
or reported is planning status for revising connections to downtown.
Visit our UC Routes
page to learn what's under discussion so far.
The
state passed at the start of April a $3 billion mini-capital program
to enable it to take advantage of federal stimulus money. It includes
$490 for transit and a sizeable amount to the city for streets and
potholes. Known local projects so far include Lake Park Avenue.
East
Hyde Park Committee has publicly asked better parking outcomes, suggesting
some alternatives voted for in an informal survey. They have also
seen improvements in the ancient sewer etc. infrastructure. See in
Southeast/East
Hyde Park page. 53rd Street is the latest to be morphing into
pay and display machines- collectors say people are paying.
City
Council in December passed a sale of its meters for 75 years. As early
as January, meter costs will quadruple to $1 for the first hour.
Doomsday
may or may not be back on the table in Feb. 2009, with a deficit of
over $200 m looming for CTA and big shortfalls for Metra and PACE.
Service cuts and fare hikes may be avoided- but the state may pull
back on free rides for seniors.
Deja
vu, vu. January 2009 saw an increase of a quarter both ways, elimination
of discount on the Cards, and increase in monthly passes from $75
to $90. CTA blames slumping economy (ridership plus falling sales
tax take and real estate transfer tax), increased fuel and utility
prices, and more free rides.
NOV. 13 2008 THE BOARD VOTED A FARE INCREASE FOR JANUARY 2009.(There
are also 632 layoffs.) Here
are the changes for January 2009:
Bus up $.25- card and Chicago Card $1.75 (seniors free), cash up .25-
$2.25
Rail all $2.25 and no cash option; no bargain for cards. Up $.25 to
$.50. Transit card goes from $1.75 to $2.25, Chicago Card goes from
$1.75 to $2.25. All transfers stay $.25.
Passes go up 15% vs proposed 20%. 1-day pass goes up .75 to $5.75;
2-day eliminated, 3-day goes from $12 to $14; 5-day eliminated; $7-day
goes from $20 to $23, 30-day goes from $75 to $86.
Ridership is up and fuel down, advert. rev. should go
up and the Governor has reinstated $32 m in reduced-fare subsidies,
but sales and real estate transfers are really down and maintenance
needs up.
Bus
Tracker is starting to come to local routes (see CTA
page);#173 set to become more-hour, 2-way express between
campus and downtown (See UC
Routes);Olympic committee and service providers, IDOT
pressed on needs, inconveniences at Ald. Hairston's Olympic forum.
CTA has had to fill a $40 million hole (due partly to free rides and
soaring fuel costs) despite ridership soaring to the point of some
sro cars to be added on El's. A fare increase goes into effect in
January.
Gold
Line, for 10 years a "pet" of the Conference is at last
getting a hearing and chance from officials and proposed Community
Benefits Agreement. See Chicago Weekly News article in the Gold
Line page 1 and Metra
and Gold Line.
By 2010 a system may be in effect on CTA where your credit cards will
have a chip allowing them to be read and automatically be debited
by CTA readers instantaneously- just tap the reader at turnstyle or
on bus. GOLD LINE WAS DROPPED FROM THE OLYMPICS BENEFITS AGREEMENT;
SOME TROLLEY LINES ARE IN IT. These kinds of transportation improvements,
which involved committing transit agencies to do what the city and
2016 want, did not fit well in a Memorandum between these two. Gold
Line et al $1M feasibility studies are now being sought via the state,
possibly using federal money.
CTA
will enter into deals with credit card companies and will be able
to reduce use of its own cards, which is very expensive and time
consuming for them under the present vendor. This has been very
successful in Europe and Asia and is part of the move to one or
just a few cards vs having a card for every store etc. Deals will
probably emerge as with cards and banks-- sign up with us and get
week of free transit or an ongoing discount, or..... CTA will put
the system out for bid in early 2009. A question is what that will
do to hopes for intermodality/universal cards, as for a Metra Electric
South Chicago "Gold Line" (already is with PACE), since
Metra is not moving in either direction, at least at present. Another
way, which Metra users seem to prefer is going through users' credit
cards.
Ways
to pay now: CTA Chicago Card. Value added at vending machines (few
outside CTA system)
CTA Chicago Card Plus. As above but can have value replenished automatically
from your bank or credit card
CTA magnetic strip transit cards, passes. Buy at Jewel, Dominick's
and some other locations (like phone cards)
Cash--buses only!
At the July 2008 5th Ward Olympics meeting James Withrow
of HPKCC Hyde Park Transit Task Force and Linda Thisted of Coalition
for Equitable Community Development and Interfaith Open Communities
Hyde Park presented a version of Mike Payne's "Gray Line"
concept to integrate via leasing Metra Electric (here South Chicago
Branch) by the CTA system, with frequent L type service and a common
fare card. After familiarizing other aldermen along the route, a request
could be made for a cost and feasibility assessment--Ald. Hairston
says that as a single infrastructure upgrade for the Olympics and
in general, it makes a lot of sense and bang for minimum dollar. Parts
of the rationale include the relative and growing density along this
route from Kenwood through South Shore, that the mid south except
for Hyde Park has some of the longest commutes to jobs in the metro
region, and the solid and growing centers of attraction and new developments
along the line. Southsiders Organized for Unity and Liberation
is a large coalition that has also adopted Metra line or "Gray
Line Lite" as a leading objective. SOUL is one group combining
in a Coalition for an Equitable Olympics. Visit
http://alwaysintransit.typepad.com/hyde_park_urbanist/2008/08/gray-line-lite.html.
The
latest revival of the Gray Line Lite concept (now Gold Line) is in
Olympics context, by the 5th Ward Olympics Task Force and by a wider
Southsiders Organizing for Unity and Liberation, becoming part of
a newly launched umbrella Communities for Equitable Olympics. The
plan includes 10 minute service, Visit http://alwaysintransit.typepad.com/hyde_park_urbanist/2008/08/gray-line-lite.html.
Chamber, HPKCC sign on. Kudos to James Withrow
and Linda Thisted. (Description of similar concepts started by Mike
Payne are in our Gray Line
page.)
November 17, 2008:
More information concerning the Gold Line transit proposal, (Metra
So Chic. Electr. upgrade-CTA lease-el-like frequency-univ. card- added
Bronzeville station) including an explanation of the name change,
can be found here:
Additionally,
, SOUL, with HPKCC and CECD reps, met with staff from the offices
of Ald. Hairston (who hosted the meeting), Sen. Durbin, Rep. Jackson,
Majority Leader Currie, state Senator Raoul, Ald. Preckwinkle and
the Chicago Dep't of Transportation. Like most of our meetings with
politicians on this effort, this meeting was very positive and we
got commitments to go forward from all involved. Holdup now is Metra
despite meetings with them. SOUL, Communities for Equitable Olympics,
legislators and aldermen along the line have joined forces to 1) seek
a full costing out study 2) include the project in an Olympics Benefit
Agreement. Main components are frequent service (will cost more rail
cars), inter transfer, and a new station in Bronzeville at 35th.
The Gold Line idea has taken off with local aldermen
and state legislators signing on, as well as organizations such as
HPKCC and Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce, UC officers- The
latest revival of the concept "Gray Line Lite," to be renamed)
is in Olympics context, by the 5th Ward Olympics Task Force and by
a wider Southsiders Organizing for Unity and Liberation, becoming
part of a newly launched Coalition for Equitable Olympics. Visit http://alwaysintransit.typepad.com/hyde_park_urbanist/2008/08/gray-line-lite.html.
SOUL, HPKCC, HP Chamber of Commerce and other groups have signed up.
Officials near the Metra including Ald. Hairston and Preckwinkle,
Rep. Currie, Sen. Raoul, UC, CMAP have shown enthusiasm or signed
up and helped. At a meeting with Doug Arnot and others of Chicago
2016, strong support and sense of consistency with Olympic goals were
expressed. It can't go into the bid book because it's not funded,
but after the bid is awarded, planning could go forward, including
gaining federal funds for the purchase of cars and other upgrades
and the agency arrangements and card interchange needed. The regional
planning agency CMAP has been very supportive, considering this as
bringing much more ridership at lower cost ($160 m) than other expansion
plans. The plan includes 10 minute service, fare transfer convertibility,
track and signal upgrade, new cars, and a new station between 47th
and 27th.
At
its September board meeting, HPKCC endorsed circulating a letter supportive
of Gray Line Lite, as had the Chamber of Commerce. Alderman Preckwinkle
is also looking into options such as trolleys.
Transit
and mobility issues are always prominent on our radar and to other
organizations such as East Hyde Park Action Committee. (Visit
Transit homepage). A funding law that gives stability for at least
a few years was enacted. Now Mayor Daley has opened the next essential
step- repair and upgrade (esp. if the Olympic bid is won). But it
depends on the state passing a capital infrastructure and on federal
help. We also always seek upgrades in mobility and transit, especially
if it helps disabled persons and seniors. And the University has taken
major steps (at least those accessing or who can get to campus) by
remaking its CTA bus routes.
Not
only potholes but outright sink holes are showing up, and the crews
are behind, partly
because there has to be a full causal inspection including sewer and
water line leaks. Starting to catch up in fall 2008.
HPKCC
(hpkcc@aol.com) would like to hear
your viable ideas including for Olympics benefits and management,
as would your alderman.
Public
Safety
www.chicagopolice.org.
May
7 the University announced that Marlon Lynch, the recently-appointed
director of Safety (and over Transportation and Parking) wil assume
direction of the University Police (to move to 60th and Drexel in
June), while Rudy Nimocks, currently police head, will become Director
of Community Partnerships. Details in University
News Releases.
Be
wary of the Cottage Grove area particularly south of 60th St. Into
spring 2009 serious incidents, mostly shootings, continued in Woodlawn,
between 61st and 634s, Kimbark and Cottage Grove. Both Chicago and
UC police have increased activity in the area.
U
of C Security Alert, April 6 2009- and where to comment or report
what you know or give/get new information.
The
University of Chicago. April 6, 2009. Security Alert At 5:05 p.m.,
Thursday, April 2- A man, 18, standing on the sidewalk with several
acquaintances on Cottage Grove Avenue between 61st and 62nd Street
was fatally shot by an unknown assailant.
At 8:50 p.m., Friday, April 3 - A woman, 18, her male companion,
18, and a one year-old child in a car stopped at a traffic signal
at 61st and Cottage Grove were shot at by the unknown occupants
of a white, 4-door Pontiac Grand Am that pulled up next to their
car. The shot shattered the rear door window, but no one was injured.
At 12:40 a.m., Saturday, April 4 - A man, 28, was fatally shot
in the street near his residence, just south of the UCPD patrol
area, on Ingleside between 64th and 65th Street.
Police are seeking suspects in all three cases at this time. Police
believe at least two of the cases are gang-related. The Chicago
Police and the University of Chicago Police are working with a
variety of city and community resources in an effort to address
this gang-related violence. There is collaborative planning and
deployment of Chicago and UCPD patrol units supported by specialized
units of the Chicago Police Department. UCPD and CPD are expanding
a Safe Passage Program for school children. Active support in
the community is being supplied by Alderman Willie Cochran (20th
Ward), The Apostolic Church of God, the Cease Fire Organization,
The Woodlawn Organization, The Woodlawn Preservation and Investment
Corp., and The Woodlawn New Communities Program. Every resource
available to the police and the community is being implemented
in order to reduce the community risk and apprehend the perpetrators.
In the meantime, please use caution. Faculty, staff, and students
are encouraged to use the Safe Ride service, University bus system,
or UCPD Umbrella service. Information is available on line at
http://www.uchicago.edu/safety/.
Rudolph E. Nimocks, Chief, University of Chicago Police Department.
Crime
continued dramatic declines in 2008, in the 30% range. This could
be partly related to considerable increase in UC security and policing
measures. Details in Safety
latest page.
Concern has been expressed about perceived under reporting of homicides
and other crimes.
Hyde
Park has not had less crime in numbers and proportionate to population
in many decades, and far less than even less populous nearby neighborhoods,
thanks in good part to combined efforts of city and UC police. Yet
many incidents continue (75% of violent crimes being street robberies)
and most residents believe there is too much. University alerts: www.uchicago.edu/safety/.
Visit our new page University
of Chicago institutional and student responses and resources.
Beware
of a scam whereby someone sends a check for subletting and apartment--
for more than the deposit and expecting you to wire them the "excess."!!!!!!
Another scam has people soliciting on the street supposedly for the
Neighborhood Club. Other scams including telling someone to withdraw
bank funds as part of an "investigation" of bank employees,
telling people to send a processing fee to claim their "winnings",
posing as from a utility company or the city to perform "work".
What to do rather than ignore or hang up? Ask for return number or
show id, check 311 for work being done in the area and report to 311,
notify the bank or purported utility, never agree to meet anyone anywhere
or send any money. Area One Detectives- 312 747-8382.
A
rare homicide, but not a rare location for trouble: December 16, 2008,
near midnight, Cydrell Bragg of the 8000 block of S. Morgan dies of
multiple gunshot wounds. He approached a group by Falcon Inn in the
1600 block of E. 53rd, an argument broke out with shotgun(s?) fired.
Burglaries
were down significantly in South Kenwood in 2006-8, due in large part
to a new task force that broke pattern burglaries and to collaboration
with UC Police. Robberies are the next focus. Read about it in the
Latest
Patterns page. Although Hyde Park-Kenwood are safer than most
Chicago communities, one must be vigilant against both singular incident
and pattern occurrences. The neighborhood was sorrowed last fall by
the first shooting death of a U of C student in 30 years. Should we
not be as outraged by a murder of a man at 48th and Drexel, finding
of a Hyde Park boy in a trash can in Englewood, and gunfire injury
in the 4500 block of Drexel? Three were arrested for a pattern of
activities and harassment behind the BP on Lake Park. There are localized
(but spreading?) pockets of drug and gathering/harassing activities
in the neighborhood--but order for the community and its organizations
to help neighbors and police, those seeing something have to DO their
part. Visit Public
Safety, Latest
patterns, and CAPS
News and tips. Drug dealers' latest tactics include cars
with temporary license plates and police scanners.
Congratulations to recent 21st and 2nd District Cmdr's. Howard Lodding
and Lynette Helm upon promotion; welcome to new 21st Commander John
Doty and new commanders for the 2nd and 3rd Districts.
In
May 2008 President Zimmer announced campus safety initiatives. Following
recommendations of a Campus and Security Committee and an outside
consultant convened after a murder in 2007, recommendations include
a new shuttle bus system, walking escort service, daily crime report
posting including a safety website, cameras and lighting, changes
to the UC Police, better safety education and outreach. Changes will
be implemented gradually and be modified as new dorms, facilities,
etc. come on line.
Some concern has been expressed about
UC Medical Center ER restrictions and cutbacks.
University
of Chicago in the communities
See
the Health
Care Delivery page on the controversies over changes in policy
by the UC/
University held Outreach/Enrichment forum for invited citywide stakeholders
in April 2009. To
page.
May
7 the University announced that Marlon Lynch, the recently-appointed
director of Safety (and over Transportation and Parking) wil assume
direction of the University Police (to move to 60th and Drexel in
June), while Rudy Nimocks, currently police head, will become Director
of Community Partnerships. Details in University
News Releases.
September
2008 the University of Chicago named Ann Marie Lipinski Vice President
for Community Engagement. To information
and releases. Ms. Lipinski met with the the HPKCC board in early
12009, mainly to discuss development issues.
The
University has been expanding its land purchases and other involvement
in development, education, policing, health care and more in the mid-South
communities. These have not been without controversy, and for Hyde
Park it is not yet clear which direction the University wishes to
go and whether some changes such as urban health policy will result
in less care actually offered in Hyde Park. Residents apparently killed
a university hotel plan with a local dry vote. Harper Court is being
emptied- not sure what's next.
See University
and Community and follow links.
Disturbing
many is cutback in availability of services at U of C Medical Center,
and regulatory intervention. Yet the UC appears to be forging ahead
with area-wide alliances. See in Health
Care Delivery.
General notices and alerts
Beware
of a scam whereby someone sends a check for subletting and apartment--
for more than the deposit and expecting you to wire them the "excess."!!!!!!
Another scam has people soliciting on the street supposedly for the
Neighborhood Club. Counterfeit
bills including "$100s" are being circulated. One
bill ID'd as fake by Secret Service although passing tests!!!!! was
presented by 2 apparently from Africa or, in their 20s.
And don't let a scam succeed- if it looks too good it is.
If involves signover of property rights, report it.
Bicyclists-
please don't ride on the sidewalk- it's illegal as well as dangerous.
And in some places that aren't clearly walks, and people are present,
walk your bike. See rules and advice as well as routes adn maps in
our bike riding
page.
Do
not touch, but report immediately any bats found, dead or alive. A
dead bat found on Harper south of 53rd proved to be rabid.
Take precautions and stay alert.
Several
curb cuts on streets and walks will be redone this summer. So will
Lake Park Avenue.
Welcome
to new problem-solving organizations East Hyde Park Action Committee
(EHPAComm@yahoo.com, see our
East Hyde Park page) and Coalition for Equitable Community
Development (http://www.hpkcoalition.org),
see our CECD
page.
|
| |
Contact
us at hpkcc@aol.com
or phone 773 288-8343.
1525 E. 53rd St. #907
Website www.hydepark.org
Membership
form. About us.
The
Hyde Park-Kenwood Community Conference
(a 501(c)3)
publishes a quarterly Reporter for members and friends, and
maintains hydepark.org. Its board meets monthly and busy committees
meet regularly.
All
meetings are open to the public. Our board meets usually 1st Thursdays,
7 pm, 1525 E. 53rd St. 4th floor
The
purpose of the Conference is to attend to the civic
needs of the community; work toward an attractive, secure, diverse,
and caring community; and to promote participation of residents, businesses,
institutions, and organizations in programs and activities that advance
the interests and concerns of the community. It serves the community
as a watchdog, independent voice, and clearing house in the community's
ongoing conversation and decisions about those matters which affect
and define community life.
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Anniversary
Year: "The
Conference at 60--Hyde Park in 10 Years"
Garden Fair 50 Years
To
programs updates/descriptions/page links-up
Anniversary
forums and programs have started- watch for the next.
"Hyde Park- Challenging the next decade" or,
Where Do We Want Hyde Park to be in 10 Years; How Do We Get There? "
Anniversary
kick off forum reports page.
HPKCC News, Information, Members
page, About page,
Committees
The next meeting of the Board of Directors
is on Aug. 6, Thursday, 7 pm , 1525 E. 53rd 4th
floor.
Next
big activities- FALL BULB AND MUM SALE SEPT. 12 AND OUR ANNUAL MEETING
SEPT. 13, USED BOOK SALE OCT. 10-12: A LIMITED NUMBER OF BOOKS CAN BE
TAKEN NOW FOR EMERGENCY REASONS TO OFFSITE STORAGE- CALL 773-955-4455
OR 773 288-8343.
News
from January-July meetings 2009: Visit
the latest "From
the President's Desk," "Actions of the Board (Jan-May)."
The Conference continues meeting with community organizations and businesses
on meeting community agendas and keeping our services and small nonprofits
healthy, and partnering with them. We are working with a team from IIT
to develop a HPKCC-specific website, are planning anniversary celebrations
and community forums for the Conference and Garden Fair. Jennifer Bosch
of the Neighborhood Club reported on progress, and the Conference underwrote
parts of a summer program for youth. Olympic benefits agreements and
the wisdom of holding the Olympics here in that light were reviewed.
We learned of possible intriguing programs promoting youth activities
and school progress, sponsorships and research by the Southside Preservation
Action Fund committee, and the status of an important community garden
that is an intersection between communities and is a food and sustainable
precinct.
Visit
Teen
Summer Program page.
2008
HPKCC Retrospective and About as we start
60th Anniversary
The
April 2009 Reporter
all about the Hyde Park Garden Fair at 50, has arrived at our members'
mailboxes. Will the next dense issue about neighborhood possibilities
be in yours? Join!
and also tell us you want the last-published issue. hpkcc@aol.com.
Index to all recent
Reporters.
In January
2009 issue: Used Book Sale,
Garden Fair lectures, From the President,
Conference adopts two new committees,
Condos/Coops Forum Explores Finances and Foreclosures,
HPKCC Celebrates 60 Years,
The Year 2008: Big Stories,
Schools Committee holds Networking Dinner.
Preview:
July 2009 Reporter.
In the upcoming July 2009 issue:
HPKCC Kicks Off 60th Year with Future of Hyde Park Forum. By
Gary Ossewaarde
Get Ready for the Hyde Park Used Book Sale. By Jane Ciacci.
From the President's Desk... By George Rumsey
Staying Involved
Hyde Park Jazz Festival
Development Committee Takes Positions and Leads in a More Collaborative
Approach by the Conference. By Gary Ossewaarde
Talking with Our State Representatives. By David Nekimken
Eye on Neighborhood Schools: Developmental Assets Program Outlined by
Schools Committee. By Nancy Baum
Kenwood Academy High School Continues to Raise the Bar. By Cynthia Liberty
Actions of the Board (January-May 2009)
Membership and interests form
Exhibit: 50 Years of Garden Fairs July 18.
Fall Bulb and Mum Sale Sept. 12.
Conference vitae, programs and contacts
Thanks
to all for a successful Hyde Park Used Book Sale- To
Thank You Letters in Book
Sale page.
Thank you to Fifth Third Bank for a very generous gift.
Our address is now 1525 E. 53rd Street, #907, Chicago, IL 60615. 773
288-8343, hpkcc@aol.com
Officers elected October 2, 2008
President George W. Rumsey,
Vice Presidents Jay Ammerman (1st), Gary Ossewaarde
Secretary Trish Morse
Treasurer Mark Granfors
Board
members elected in 2008: Jay N. Ammerman (returning), Amy Becker, Gwendolyn
Bonds, Amy Girst, Wallace E. Goode, Anita R. Hollins. Julie Monberg
(continuing), James W. Withrow (returning). Elected subsequently: Brenda
Sawyer.
Continuing
non-officer board members: Lenora Austin, Nancy Baum, Richard Buchner,
Peter Cassel, Jane Ciacci, jane Comiskey, George Davis, Michael Doss,
Tracy Lampkins, George W. Davis, David Nekimken, Vicki Suchovsky.
We welcome
a new affiliate committee, Friends of Blackstone Library, and new board
member Brenda Sawyer, and new board members elected September 14, 2008:
We
welcome new affiliate committee Southside
Preservation Action Fund, led by Jack Spicer.
Our key projects at the moment are the collaborative
community concerns impacting development including Harper Court and
general neighborhood revitalization conditions and priorities; impact
of the Olympics; underwriting programs at our endangered nonprofit services;
the fall Used Book Sale; and building collaborations that focus and
drive forward realization of community vision (affordable housing, transit
oriented development, openness and transparency in planning and community
life, and our mission in general. We also serve as umbrella to worthy
organizations and causes.
And we DO THINGS- like 2 garden fairs, and a used book
fair each year, hold forums and collaborations, sell whistles, attend
a lot of meetings and make personal contacts!
Watch for our next forum on direction
of the community over the next decade, to be announced soon, one on
handling condos/coops foreclosures, building intuitional and social
capital, and a schools topic.
Committee meetings:
Schools August 24, 7 pm, 1448 E. 53rd St. Book Sake tba in July, Parks
tba in July, Anniversary tba, Development-P-Z tba.
We will be doing the Columbus Weekend
Hyde Park Used Book Sale October 11-13. Contact Jane Ciacci at kjc2@uchicago.edu.
Or call Jane Comiskey, 773 324-0750.
HPKCC
home: Board and Officers, Recent board actions, reports, information,
about
Read
most recently elected board member bios.
Get your Reporter by first class mail by joining the Conference.
HPKCC News page. Membership
Form. History.
Actions and
From the President's Desk.
Our action committees and task forces are moving ahead, and
new ones are emerging. Here are what some have been doing. Read also
reports on Harper
Court and future of the Co-op.
The Conference continues to be a choice source-to-cite in media about
directions and what's of significance in Hyde Park.
Our current major thrust is ensuring community wide input in the Harper
Court RFP and 53rd planning, working with the TIF and a broad community
coalition.
See
our White Paper of findings from "What's Right, What's Wrong about
Hyde Park?" in the "What's
Right.." page.
Public
safety and civility challenges. Views
from the Conference. Visit our pages on Crime,
Public Safety
and Business
and Teens. Learn about our
WhistleSTOP program, where to get whistles-get involved in the new
community safety action program. Printable flyer.
The Schools
Committee is engaging with local school councils in a variety
of ways and working to increase resident participation and ownership
in our schools. See Schools
Committee page. Find out how to engage with the new Academic
Games League partnered with U of C Service Center.
See
report on our forum/assembly March 2007, "After school Matters
in Hyde Park, " including presenters' contacts.
Many providers and an Assets Based modeler presented thoughts and facts
on what's available to our kids as constructive options that will give
them the experiences and assets they will need as adults. We continue
to finalize a Youth Programs Database for distribution and have held
a workshop on applying for block grants. A
Larger list of afterschool and enrichment providers is
online and ever in progress. We hope to move to the next stage
with a community coalition that makes sure the kids get access to the
assets and 'promises' needed to reach successful adulthood.
See the committee's
prospectus for a coalition for assets-building programs in our community.
Visit the HPKCC
Youth Programs Database:
Contact Nancy Baum. nbbaum@sbcglobal.net.
Join us at our next meeting May 18, 7 pm at United Church, 1448 E. 53rd
Blackstone entry.
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Fall Bulb and Mum Sale takes place September 12. 50th Anniversary- a
wonderful celebration was held May 31. A BIG THANKS TO ALL WHO HAVE
PARTICIPATED over the years in the Garden Fair Committee and our sales-over
50 years!
TTF:
The HPKCC Transit and Mobility Task Force. Visit
the 
