Community Input – 115th and Western
Dear Neighbors: Last June, the Southwest Morgan Park Civic Association and I hosted an open meeting to discuss developing the City owned land at 11443-11547 S. Western Ave. into a soccer/lacrosse field operated by the Chicago Park District. Residents that attended the meeting expressed various opinions regarding the possible closure of 115th Street at Western Avenue required to join the two parcels. At that time, the Southwest Morgan Park Civic Association agreed to continue discussions on traffic issues related to 115th St. while I maintained an ongoing dialogue with the Chicago Park District about the potential project. Since then, I have continued to work with the Park District exploring the various site, grade, and environmental issues at this location. Moreover, I have also brought the site to several private developers including representatives from Whole Foods, Mariano’s, Trader Joe’s, the Fresh Market, Culver’s and more. As has been the case in the past, not one developer that I contacted expressed an interest in this property. Given that, the Chicago Park District seems to be our most realistic option for development at this site. After nearly a year of research and discussion, they have presented preliminary plans for this location. Before moving forward, I would like to gather feedback and input from the entire community. On Saturday, June 8, 2013, I will host an open house at the Kennedy Park Fieldhouse, 11320 S. Western Ave. from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm for residents to come, view the plans and renderings, and complete a survey to provide feedback. Afterwards, the information, along with the community survey, will be posted at www. the19thward.com. This will allow residents to offer input from June 8th – June 22nd; the information gathered will help us formulate a plan to move forward. Sincerely, Matthew J. O’Shea Alderman, 19th Ward
Kennedy Park Field House
11320 S. Western
1 – 4 pm