CDOT streetscape improvement projects consist of infrastructure, pedestrian safety, and placemaking improvements with the goal of creating unified, safe, walkable, and attractive commercial destinations. Streetscape projects foster community and economic growth by prioritizing investments in pedestrian activity, multi-modal transportation, vibrant public spaces, and quality-of-life amenities for local residents.

Chicago Ave Corridor Improvements Project, also known as the Soul City Corridor, is in the Austin neighborhood along Chicago Ave from Austin Blvd to Cicero Ave. The vision for the corridor was outlined by the Soul City Corridor Development Framework Plan. Rooted in a distinct cultural identity of Black art, music, food, and entertainment, “Soul City” is a new identity for the Chicago Avenue Corridor that sets the tone and expectation for vibrancy and experience. It is a unifying theme for future economic development and supports existing business owners. Importantly, it recognizes the corridor as a gateway to Chicago. 

During public outreach, the community expressed the need to improve pedestrian experience and safety, landscaping, outside seating, and transit amenities along the corridor. The project presents an opportunity to increase safety by narrowing the existing travel lanes to calm traffic, and improve walkability by widening sidewalks. Pedestrian safety will be increased by installing curb extensions at intersections which will shorten crossing times and improve visibility between pedestrians and motorists. Raised crosswalks will be installed at side streets to help slow down traffic turning onto local residential streets. The parkways will be widened to allow for the planting of street trees and for business to open outdoor café seating. Transit amenities will be improved by installing bus bulbs to create dedicated space for transit passengers to wait. Bike lanes will be installed to make bicycling safer and more convenient.

Section 1: Chicago Avenue from Austin Boulevard to Central Avenue
Section 2: Chicago Avenue from Central Avenue to Laramie Avenue
Section 3: Chicago Avenue from Laramie Avenue to Cicero Avenue

• Roadway geometry and intersection improvements
• Full width roadway resurfacing
• New wider sidewalks with parkway pavers
• New wider sidewalks
• New curb and gutter
• New street lighting
• Traffic signal upgrades
• ADA ramps and crosswalks
• Raised crosswalks
• Bike lanes
• Curb extensions
• Bus boarding islands
• New pavement marking and signs
• Tree plantings and landscaping
• Site furnishings
• Community light pole identifiers
• Community gateway identifiers
• Peace circle seating areas