This beautiful mural, designed by Molly Zakrajsek of Molly Z. Art + Design, is the first element of a gateway improvement project recommended by the Lincoln Avenue Revitalization Strategy. In addition to the mural, key elements for this project include new fencing around the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) substation and fabricated archways along the sidewalk providing a light source at night.
“We’re thrilled to bring this project to life and brighten Lincoln Avenue,” states Kim Schilf, President & CEO of the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce.
The Lincoln Avenue Revitalization Strategy was developed through a process of community input and recommendations from the Lakota Group, in partnership with Sam Schwartz Engineering and Goodman Williams Group. The goal of the revitalization strategy was to “create a vision for Lincoln Avenue as a thriving commercial corridor, improve the quality of life for residents and visitors, and to create and maintain a place where people and businesses want to be.”
The installation of unique gateway elements at critical connection points was highly recommended. In response to this recommendation, the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce hired PORT Urbanism to create a plan to activate the space under the ‘L’ tracks with a unique and vibrant gateway. This gateway improvement project will connect the north and south sides of Lincoln Avenue to create a brighter pedestrian experience for Lincoln Park residents and visitors.
Pictured left to right: Jessica Wobbekind (LPCC), Kim Schilf (LPCC), Kenneth Dotson (Lincoln Avenue Special Service Area (SSA) #35), Ald. Michele Smith (43rd) and Molly Zakrajsek (Molly Z. Art + Design); Lincoln Avenue Gateway Project design by PORT Urbanism.
