Austin
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Austin 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 Austin, the priority corridor is Chicago Avenue, running from Kilpatrick Avenue on the east to Austin Boulevard on the west. Community EngagementAustin stakeholders participated in the INVEST South/West kick-off celebration in January 2020 at the Kehrein Center for the Arts. 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 600 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 Austin comments and feedback, is available at right. Select Austin materials from the event are listed below. |
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Neighborhood Roundtable
In spring 2020, the City will form the Austin 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 Austin 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.