A major infrastructure improvement has begun in the Chicago Lawn neighborhood, where the
Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) and the Public Building Commission (PBC)
have launched a $5.1 million street reconstruction project on Central Park Avenue. Spanning
from 71st to 73rd Streets in the 17th Ward, the project addresses outdated infrastructure
originally built in the 1930s under the Federal Works Progress Administration (WPA), which
lacked basic components such as sidewalks, curbs, gutters, and sufficient drainage.
Alderman David Moore acknowledged the significance of the investment for his constituents,
calling it a long-awaited development. He thanked CDOT and PBC for advancing the long-
awaited project and expressed hope for continued infrastructure improvements in the
neighborhood. The initiative, overseen by PBC in coordination with CDOT, includes full-depth
roadway reconstruction along with the installation of new stormwater drainage systems, sewer
and water main upgrades, and replacement of lead service lines in cooperation with the
Department of Water Management. Additional features involve curbs and gutters, ADA-
compliant sidewalk ramps, new driveways, alley aprons, improved lighting, signage, pavement
markings, and newly planted trees.
CDOT Commissioner Tom Carney noted the unique nature of WPA street reconstructions,
emphasizing that such projects involve rebuilding streets from the ground up. He highlighted the
positive impact on residents’ daily lives and credited PBC for its essential role in the partnership.
Ray Giderof of the Public Building Commission reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to
modernizing city infrastructure. He underscored that the effort aligns with the broader “build
better together” initiative championed by PBC Chairman and Mayor Brandon Johnson, adding
that the completed roadway would benefit not just residents but also local businesses and visitors
well into the future.
This project forms part of a wider effort under Chicago’s Capital Improvement Program, which
currently supports design and construction across more than 80 WPA-era street blocks
throughout the city.
