Daley's Success As Chicago's 20-Year Mayor

Neal Pierce argues that retiring Mayor Daley's achievements in Chicago "stand out as beacons for mayors, American and worldwide, to emulate." He attributes some of his success to sheer political skill, but also examines seven effective policy shifts.

1 minute read

September 24, 2010, 11:00 AM PDT

By George Haugh


Livability, which comes in the form of Chicago's extended Millennium park and a system of 110 miles of green roadway medians stretching out into the neighborhoods. "Starting with City Hall itself, the city has developed a world-leading 7 million square feet of green roofs."

Another key was a climate action plan that has been labeled the world's most advanced. His social policies for housing and education won him voter support from previously opposed groups. In winning control of Chicago's schools from the state legislature he set a precedent which many other cities have followed. Since then the schools have improved, but not nearly as much as Daley had hoped for.

Thursday, September 23, 2010 in Citiwire

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