Development Council Announces $200K Grant for West 35th Street

The McKinley Park Development Council announced it has received a $200,000 grant to add public art and street furniture to West 35th Street in Chicago's McKinley Park neighborhood.

The grant, from The Chicago Community Trust, will be used to revitalize 35th Street toward developing it as a business corridor, the council stated in an announcement.

The project will implement a program that "reflects the community's cultural diversity, supports and attracts local businesses, enhances pedestrian safety and accessibility and uplifts local artists," the council said.

Art, Seating and Trash Cans

Public art, seating and trash cans will be installed on West 35th Street, and matchmaking events will connect local business and property owners with mural artists.

The first new artwork will be installed in summer 2026, and the project will continue through fall 2027. Project funds remaining after the council's operating expenses will be paid directly to artists, the council said.

Artists Can Apply

Interested artists "whose work reflects the vibrancy and culture of McKinley Park" can apply for involvement to the project by sending a letter of interest, background statement and work samples to info@mpdcchicago.org. 

Improving the West 35th Street corridor is a key element of the McKinley Park Neighborhood Plan and the University of Illinois at Chicago's Visioning Study from 2022 and 35th Street Study from 2023.