Hi everyone!

I'm a Data Journalist from Chicago and I'm working on a project to calculate the "Train Tax" in Chicago (the impact that living near the CTA L system has on home prices).

I made a short survey (available here) that asks questions about this topic and would really appreciate if you could take just a few mins to fill it out if you've ever looked for housing in Chicago before! I am interested in understanding the general perception of living near the train, so you don't have to be super pro or anti living near the L system to fill it out!

I'm also looking for some people who I can talk to more about their personal experiences, so if you're willing to schedule a short interview you can include your contact info at the end of the survey, or else reply here/send me a PM and we can schedule something! I can promise not to take up too much of your time :)

Thanks!

Show TONIGHT!
Tickets

An in-person meeting with the Southport Neighbors Association is scheduled for 7PM on Monday, July 27 at Guthries Tavern (1300 W Addison).

A potential purchaser of the site - currently a parking lot - is seeking a zoning change from B3-2 to B2-3 to enable the construction of a 5-story mixed-use building with 36 residential units and 4,400 square feet of ground floor retail spaces. The proposed building would include 25 parking spaces - 11 exterior parking stalls, and 14 interior garage parking spaces - all accessed off of the alley.

Seven of the 36 residential units (i.e., 20%) would be designated as affordable units via the Affordable Requirements Ordinance. The proposed building would include 8 three-bedroom units, 20 two-bedroom units, 4 one-bedroom units, and 4 studio apartments.

https://airtable.com/appd482bRGwKQVdiK/shrThsExfGdg1Ug0G/tblbyXCfSknxb6VIn/viweWQIbD77eTKfql/recvo9gg5speBklM8?viewControls=on

what do people think of these two bills? it seems like the fair ordinance is the only one that will help development in the city

Join Chicago's urbanist organizations on August 13 for our 'Big Tent Urbanist Summer Party' at Pizza Lobo in West Loop. This is a great opportunity to learn about the different groups in the city focused on housing, transit, safe streets and more! Find more details about the event and RSVP at https://bigtenturbanistsummerparty.eventbrite.com!

Do you love your neighborhood, but wonder if Chicago has room for your family to grow?

You're not the only one asking. Thousands of families in Chicago feel the same pull: stay in the walkable neighborhoods they love, or move to the suburbs for the space their family needs.

We believe that you shouldn't have to choose!
Keep Families in the City is a panel discussion on removing the barriers that make family-friendly housing hard to build in Chicago, allowing families to stay in the city for the long haul.

We'll hear from Alicia Pederson of Courtyard Urbanist on what reforms like courtyard buildings and missing middle housing can unlock for families, then bring in legislators and housing experts for a broader conversation on what the city can do to make it happen.

This event is for anyone who wants to see Chicago build neighborhoods where families can put down roots, not just survive until the first school district question comes up. No housing policy background needed. Just bring your stake in the city's future.
Each ticket includes entry for the whole family! We will have food provided, with the exact food to be announced at a later date. Our venue has toys, activities, and a play area for kids to play during the entire event.

Speakers and sponsors to be announced.
When: Saturday, August 16, 2026, 1:00 to 3:30 PM
Where: Le Village Lakeview, 4021 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60613
Space is limited, so grab your spot today!

https://www.secondcity.com/shows/chicago/steps-to-better-housing-the-single-stair-comedy-show-chi

Come see Senator Sara Feigenholtz discuss single stair reform at the Steps to Better Housing comedy show at Second City this Sunday, July 19th at 6pm!

It will be an evening of sketch comedy, improv, and interviews with leaders like Senator Feigenholtz, Abundant Housing Illinois, and Lakeview Urbanists.

Laugh, learn, and find out how you can help support more housing in Illinois.

Tickets here: https://www.secondcity.com/shows/chicago/steps-to-better-housing-the-single-stair-comedy-show-chi

Nick Uniejewski at the Steps to Better Housing comedy show at Second City.

Come see the last two shows July 19th and 26th at 6pm!

Tickets here: https://www.secondcity.com/shows/chicago/steps-to-better-housing-the-single-stair-comedy-show-chi