Phasing

Transformation on the neighborhood scale is not something that can happen overnight or even in a year or two. The revitalization and metamorphosis of West Humboldt Park from its current state to that of a community hub is likely to take hold over the course of several years, even decades. This will be done through a strategic staggered phasing of the various elements outlined in the vision of this site.

Phase 1

Streets & Corridor Adjacent

The first of these phases involves incentivizing development of mixed-use housing stock along Chicago Avenue that has commercial businesses on the ground-level and residential in conjunction with construction of reimagined streets to reinvigorate the corridor. These two steps are recommended at the beginning of the implementation process to strengthen the economic viability of the neighborhood and enhance the infrastructure of the backbone of the neighborhood. Each vertebrae must be tended to in order to ensure a solid foundation upon which the muscles and ligaments that extend into the community can be built upon.

Phase 2 The Portal

Next would come construction of The Portal to act as a gateway to the neighborhood with commercial and recreational spaces activated as a result of its introduction to the corridor. From the transect and block face analyses carried out, it is known that investment and new construction is moving westward along the corridor towards West Humboldt Park. As a result the hope is that this intervention can act as a magnet, pulling and attracting investors and eventually residents into the community while also creating a strong symbol for community identity through branding.

Phase 3 The Boldt

Upon creating a gateway that captivates and transports people into the neighborhood, the next phase involves the creation and curation of a community anchor that builds upon existing assets and vibrancy present along the corridor. This comes in the form of The Boldt, a dramatic and galvanizing beacon of health, hope, and happiness that can serve as a focal point for activity and local business.

Phase 4 Housing

Lastly, as these developments take root and further investments are made in the community, a corresponding increase in interest from the outside populace could lead to a rise in the population of the neighborhood. This will lead to growth in the housing stock and redevelopment of existing structures to help eventually drive the area to a more prosperous future. Aspects of this final phase may occur throughout the phasing process and is not restricted to only taking place after completion of The Boldt or an alternative development proposal serving the same purpose.