McKinley Park Neighborhood Plan

In 2014, CDOT removed the Ashland Avenue viaduct over Pershing Road and reconstructed the roadway. Despite these improvements, Ashland Avenue remains uninviting and unsafe for cyclists and pedestrians due to high traffic levels, auto-oriented zoning, proximity to the Stevenson Expressway (I-55), and many vacant parcels. The plan recommends focusing on infill sites and improving the aesthetics of the corridor to create a safer and more inviting environment for businesses and all users.

Prioritize infill development with support from the Metropolitan Planning Council (MPC)

MPDC should seek technical assistance through MPC’s Community Development Program to create a targeted vision for the segment of Ashland Avenue between Pershing Road and 35th Street. There are great opportunities for infill development and redevelopment along this segment of Ashland Avenue, which is largely vacant (see Figure 5.1).

The 2019 TOD Ordinance, which includes the Ashland bus route as a TOD-eligible area, should be considered as the community prioritizes opportunities for potential developments at these sites.

Prioritizing sites for infill development and redevelopment will help bridge the gap between businesses and uses in different parts of the neighborhood. Additionally, mixed-use sites along the corridor will result in increased property values, convenient access to jobs, services, and housing.

MPDC’s new beautification committee should target Ashland Avenue for landscaping and beautification improvements

Equally important is the maintenance of attractive landscape amenities along the corridor. MPDC’s new beautification committee should pursue grant opportunities to maintain the Avenue’s median and parkways with landscaped ornamental grasses and pyramidal street trees, and periodically install artistic street banners on light poles to promote the image and identity of the community. Potential funding programs include the City of Chicago Mayor’s Landscape Awards.

The committee should also explore creating its own “Adopt-A-Street” program to encourage partnerships between local merchants and residents as a way to organize community cleanups and maintenance, as well as other landscaping and beautification activities.

Figure 5.1. Priority Areas for Infill Development

Source: Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning, 2019