Altgeld Gardens (Photo Credit: Zol87/Wikimedia Commons).
CHA Board approves next phase of development at Roosevelt Square; Agency provides updates on Year of Renewal initiatives
At its May 2025 Board Meeting held today, the Chicago Housing Authority Board of Commissioners approved two actions that will provide significant community benefits to the residents of Altgeld Gardens.
- New Trail Connection to Provide Enhanced Access to the Beaubien Woods Forest Preserve: CHA’s Board approved the disposition of approximately 2,200 square feet of land to be acquired by the Forest Preserves of Cook County. The land will be used to create a new, fully ADA accessible forested path for residents to access and enjoy Beaubien Woods in greater capacity. This move aligns with the Chicago Transit Authority’s Red Line extension and the Chicago Department of Transportation’s planned bike trail and safety improvements to 130th Street and Greenwood Ave.
- By The Hand Club for Kids (BTHCK): CHA approved the disposition of 1.24 acres of land (primarily comprised of a parking lot) at 132nd Street and S. Ellis Avenue to the nonprofit By The Hand Club for Kids. The land is located immediately to the north and east of the historically significant “Up Top” building. The disposition will allow BTHCK full access to the building and enable right-of-way access and the rebuilding and improvement of sidewalks. The building is currently privately owned, and BTHCK has a signed agreement to purchase that property following today’s action. BTHCK will renovate, improve and potentially expand the Up Top building to serve more youth in the Altgeld Community and surrounding neighborhoods. The Up Top Building was designed by noted Chicago architecture firm Keck & Keck, and is historically significant. It has previously been included on Landmarks Illinois’ “Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois.”
“CHA residents deserve investments that make their communities a better place. This is especially important in historically disinvested areas like Altgeld Gardens. With today’s Board actions, CHA is demonstrating our commitment to improving the lives of Altgeld Gardens residents – especially young people. We are excited about these enhancements and the community benefits they will provide,” said CHA Interim CEO Angela Hurlock.…