Alderwoman Jeanette B. Taylor
Development and Zoning
Explore development and zoning resources in the 20th Ward, including community-led project processes, rezoning requests, economic incentives, and business improvement opportunities. Stay informed on ongoing projects and learn how you can help shape the future of our neighborhood.
Welcome to Development in the 20th Ward
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The 20th Ward is proud to embrace a community-led development process that prioritizes resident input, sustainable growth, and projects that truly benefit our neighborhood. Whether you're a developer, business owner, or resident, we invite you to learn about the steps to bring your vision to life here in the ward.
Shaping the Ward with Your Voice​
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Our development process ensures that residents have a say in projects that impact their neighborhoods.​
Key Highlights:
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All development proposals must go through a thorough community review process.
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Proposals are assessed based on community benefit and feasibility.
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Community votes determine aldermanic support for projects.
Development Process Timeline:
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Step 1: Proposal submission.
Step 2: Schedule a meeting with the Community Planning Team.
Step 3: Execute a 2-month community outreach plan.
Step 4: Host two public hybrid meetings.
Step 5: Conduct a community vote.
Upon approval, developers will work with ward staff to finalize necessary support letters for City Council or Zoning Commission submission.
Important Notes for Developers
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Projects are reviewed based on merit, community benefit, and developer track record.
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The 20th Ward is not a real estate broker and cannot assist with finding locations for projects.
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Liquor licenses are restricted under the current ward moratorium.
Only developers who have followed the community development process are eligible to request a letter of support. All requests must be submitted at least three weeks prior to the date the letter is needed.
How Zoning Relates to the 20th Ward​
In the 20th Ward, zoning directly impacts:​
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Neighborhood Development:
Zoning decisions influence the types of projects (e.g., housing, retail spaces, parks) that can be developed in specific areas.
Community Character:
By regulating land use, zoning helps preserve the unique culture and character of the ward while guiding sustainable growth.
Business and Economic Growth:
Zoning changes can allow new businesses to open, expand existing operations, or redevelop underutilized spaces.
Housing Opportunities:
Rezoning efforts can promote affordable housing development to meet community needs.
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Impact on Residents and Developers:
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Residents:
Zoning affects their daily lives by determining what can be built in their neighborhood. It helps ensure developments align with the community's needs and expectations.
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Developers:
Zoning defines the scope of their projects and ensures compliance with city guidelines. Developers may need to request rezoning or special permits to move forward with projects.
2026 Project Updates
What's Happening in the Ward?​
Woodlawn Central Voting
Apostolic Church of God wants to receive aldermanic support to establish Institutional Planned Development Number 456 and begin construction on Phase 1 of their Woodlawn Central project, which includes: a 94-unit apartment building, a 150-key hotel, a pharmacy, ground floor retail and restaurants, and 300 parking spots on their current parking lot at 6322 South Dorchester. They are not requesting city funding for Phase 1 of this project.
CPS Bid Update
Earlier this year, our office convened a CPS Bid Listening Session to ensure residents had an opportunity to hear directly from those proposing new uses for vacant CPS school buildings. Presenters shared their plans, answered questions, and engaged with community members around how these spaces could be repurposed.
The session created space for transparency and allowed residents to better understand the range of ideas being considered, while also offering direct feedback to those involved in the process. Community input remains an important part of shaping what these buildings could become moving forward.
As the process continues, Alderwoman Taylor is awaiting further direction from CPS, including whether the bidding process will reopen and what the next phase will look like.
Tax Incentives and Business Resources
Supporting Growth in the 20th Ward
Tax Increment Financing (TIF):
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is a tool to stimulate economic development in designated districts by reinvesting property tax revenue into local projects. Developers and businesses can use TIF funds to support infrastructure improvements, affordable housing, and other community-beneficial initiatives.
Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF):
The Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) offers matching grants to property owners for building repairs or renovations, supporting small businesses in creating welcoming, modern spaces. These grants help local businesses grow and thrive while strengthening neighborhood economies.
Economic Incentives:
Economic incentives in the 20th Ward include property tax reductions and funding programs designed to attract new businesses and support existing ones. These incentives aim to drive job creation, boost local commerce, and foster community investment.
Learn and Apply for Grants:
Explore grant opportunities for small businesses, nonprofits, and development projects that can enhance the 20th Ward. These grants provide vital funding to support innovative ideas, community initiatives, and local growth.
Community Involvement
Your role in Development
Your role in Development
The 20th ward thrives because of its residents.
The 20th Ward's Community Planning Team (CPT) is a dedicated group of residents and leaders committed to fostering community-driven development. This collaborative team plays a pivotal role in shaping the ward's progress by:
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Shaping the 20th Ward Voting Process: Ensuring transparency and fairness in decision-making.
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Developing Voting Criteria and Ballots: Establishing clear guidelines to evaluate proposals effectively.
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Reviewing Development Proposals: Providing a first look at projects alongside Alderwoman Taylor, raising questions guided by the voting criteria.
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Supporting Outreach and Engagement: Helping to organize and promote public meetings that amplify residents' voices.
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The CPT exemplifies the ward's commitment to inclusive development and ensures that the community remains at the heart of every decision.
If you're interested in joining the Community Planning Team (CPT), please contact our Director of Community Planning and Economic Development, Tyra Owens, at **tyra.owens@cityofchicago.org**.
Need Help?
​For specific inquiries or to submit information, feel free to contact our Director of Community Planning & Economic Development
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Tyra Owens -
Director of Community Planning & Economic Development
Phone: (773)-966-5641/Cell (312)-981-9901
Email: tyra.owens@cityofchicago.org
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Kristen Ambrose
Assistant to Director of Community Planning & Economic Development
Cell: (872)-373-5133
Email: kristen.ambrose@cityofchicago.org​