Perkins+Will

Chicago is known for its diverse neighborhoods, but it is also a city of 50 wards, each led by an alderperson with their own agenda. As 2025 begins, the city is grappling with budget issues, population growth, and rising crime perception, while aldermanic prerogative—where each alderman has veto power over development in their ward—adds another layer of hurdles to solving these challenges. We’ll examine this issue today through the lens of two major residential projects currently stuck in bureaucratic red tape, including Old Town Canvas, which was blocked by Alderman Brian Hopkins just yesterday.

Progress continues on a mixed-use development at 1203 N California Avenue in Humboldt Park, as structural work reaches the halfway point. Situated on the northeast corner with W Division Street, the project replaces a vacant lot opposite the neighborhood’s namesake park. The initiative is being spearheaded by the Hispanic Housing Development Corporation, with Pappageorge Haymes taking on the design responsibilities. The design includes 2,500 square feet of retail space on the ground level and 64 affordable units situated on the upper floors.