Auburn Gresham

Auburn Gresham is one of 10 priority communities selected as a part of the initial phase of Mayor Lightfoot’s INVEST South/West commercial corridor improvement strategy. 

Launched in October 2019, INVEST South/West's goal is to re-activate neighborhood cores that have historically served as focal points for pedestrian activity, shopping, services, transportation, public spaces and quality-of life amenities for local residents. In Auburn Gresham, the priority focus is the intersection of 79th Street and Ashland Avenue and adjacent blocks. 

Community Engagement

 Auburn Gresham stakeholders participated in the INVEST South/West kick-off celebration in December 2019 at Kennedy-King College. The family-friendly event was one of four held this winter to launch the initiative with in-depth activities that helped participants identify priorities, goals, and key community assets.

More than 500 attendees listened to presentations about the goals and objectives of INVEST South/West, then interfaced with dozens of public agencies about opportunities to improve the community. A summary of the event, including an overview of Auburn Gresham comments and feedback, is available at right.

Select Auburn Gresham materials from the event are listed below. 

Auburn Gresham Kickoff Summary Cover

Auburn Gresham Kickoff Summary  

Neighborhood Roundtable

In spring 2020 the City will form the Auburn Gresham Neighborhood Roundtable. Consisting of representatives from city agencies, aldermanic offices and neighborhood organizations, each roundtable will help advance local goals through a broad, cross-disciplinary approach that leverages the insights, wisdom, creativity and resources of local stakeholders.

The Department of Planning and Development (DPD) is in the process of forming the Auburn Gresham Community Roundtable and working to ensure it can meet safely and effectively amid the ongoing public health crisis. Questions on the roundtable can be directed to DPD@cityofchicago.org.

Service Facts