The new program would allow short-term use of vacant properties, and provide new incubation capabilities to small, start-up businesses.
"Chicago is on the verge of implementing a novel way of enlivening streetscapes," according to an article by Elizabeth Blasius.
"To combat the spread of vacant storefronts across the city and particularly in economically-challenged neighborhoods, a proposed ordinance would let entrepreneurs test pop-up concepts in empty spaces for anywhere from only five days to a full year."
According to a press release from the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP), the City Council will consider an ordinance that creates a licensing system "to allow for the operation of short-term 'pop-up' stores, including restaurants."
"If approved by City Council, the new license will provide the option of a 5-, 30-, 90-, 180-, or 365-day license, depending on their business activity, all at a very low cost and without an on-site inspection," adds the press release. "In fact, the user license is not tied to a location, so the holder can 'roam' during the length of the license and operate all around the city."
The article by Blasius provides more insight about the potential impact the program could have on communities around the city.
Read the full story: Chicago proposes experiment with pop-up urbanism
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An economic development professional shares three key takeaways from a recent conference focused on land baking practices.
Chicago Puts Thousands of Vacant Lots on the Market for $1
Chicago continues to lose population from parts of the city, so vacant properties are multiplying. The city's "Large Lots" program aims to return vacant properties back to control by residents of the neighborhoods.
More $1 Vacant Lots for Sale in Chicago
With some 20,000 vacant lots located around the city, Chicago is expanding the Large Lots Program that allows property owners to buy nearby lots for $1.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
California plans to bury El Niño’s downpour
If the state plays its cards right, it may be able to store a billion acre-feet of El Niño’s water in aquifers.
Desperate measures: Advocates weigh draining Lake Powell to fill Colorado River
Draining the reservoir could reduce evaporation losses by a couple hundred thousand acre-feet.
California city breaks ground on transit connector
The project includes three mobility hubs and a pedestrian bridge.
After public outcry, Massachusetts city releases housing development tracker
Cambridge’s tracker currently shows 250 housing projects in various stages of development.
40 years after approval, Chicago breaks ground on new park
The park honors Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, the city’s first permanent non-native settler.
FREE Course: Walkable City 1: Why Walkability?
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Reinventing Malls: Planning Alchemy—Turning Gray Fields Into Gold
The course focuses on the opportunities and imperatives that shape reinvention of mall sites.
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