The Department of Planning and Development's (DPD) Public Outdoor Plaza (POP!) program launched in February 2022 after a successful pilot created POPCourts! in Austin in 2021. As of August 2024, twelve plazas are open citywide. 

POP! enables community-based organizations to transform vacant land into community spaces along commercial corridors. The program was created to serve struggling businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic by increasing foot traffic and building safe spaces for the community to gather. The program continues to thrive, building on the success of existing plazas.  

All plazas are community-led projects constructed in low-to –moderate income communities. Community partners were awarded City funding for construction, design, maintenance and programming. 

Selected community partners engaged a team of local artists, designers, architects and a general contractor to create their plaza. Community members contributed to the design, artwork and amenities, making each plaza unique to its neighborhood. 

POP! projects include flexible amenity zones including play courts, gathering spaces, lawns, outdoor seating and areas for retail pop-ups and food trucks.  

The plazas highlight community-focused placemaking, support community identity, create safe and beautiful outdoor spaces for public enjoyment and contribute to the economic vitality of Chicago neighborhoods. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION: 

Questions may be emailed to dpd@cityofchicago.org. 

Check out the plazas below.