Three City-owned properties in Uptown would be combined into a community green space through a land transfer proposed to City Council today by Mayor Richard M. Daley.

Comprising nearly one acre and located at 4628-34 N. Winthrop Ave., the properties would be transferred to the NeighborSpace land trust, which would provide liability insurance for their use by community residents.

"Open space investments involving gardens and parks are a great way to reinforce their roles as community anchors," said Mayor Richard M. Daley. "The improvements here would have a significant impact on local neighborhoods."

In addition to providing the three lots for $1 each, the proposal includes $37,000 for fencing and water access improvements. The funding would be provided through Open Space Impact Fees, which are imposed by the City of Chicago on new residential developments to help create new open spaces in each of Chicago's 77 community areas. Approximately $500,000 in Impact Fees was used to acquire the lots in 2006, and an additional $121,000 was used for site preparation work in 2007.

Through an agreement with NeighborSpace, the "Winthrop Family Garden" would be managed by Uptown Community Development Corporation (UPCORP).