CHICAGO – Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) Commissioner Gia Biagi, 32rd Ward Alderman Scott Waguespack, and 47th Ward Alderman Martin today joined community stakeholders to break ground on the Lincoln-Ashland-Belmont Section 2 streetscape improvement project. The project will increase safety for all road users, enhance walkability, and support economic development. Improvements include full-width resurfacing, new lighting and traffic signals, street trees, community identifiers, the reconstruction of three intersections, widened sidewalks, new decorative crosswalks, and a larger pedestrian plaza space with seating, street trees, landscaping, and pavers. 
 
“This streetscape project has something for everyone, whether you are walking, biking, driving, or taking transit near the Lincoln, Ashland, and Belmont corridor,” said CDOT Commissioner Gia Biagi. “These are the types of projects that not only improve safety, but also support shared community space and economic growth. CDOT worked closely with Aldermen and community stakeholders throughout this project, and we look forward to seeing it come to life.” 

Funded through a combination federal, state, and local funding from Mayor Lightfoot’s Chicago Works capital investment plan, the $16.6 million streetscape project was designed with close cooperation with community members and 32^nd, 44^th, and 47^th Ward Aldermen. 
 

“The continuation of the streetscape improvements to these segments of Lincoln, Ashland, and Belmont represents a significant investment in the future health and vitality of this area of Lakeview,” said 32^nd Ward Alderman Scott Waguespack. “The long-anticipated upgrades will make the area safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers and more vibrant for the small businesses so essential to the character and attractiveness of this retail corridor. My appreciation goes out to the South Lakeview Neighbors, West Lakeview Neighbors, Roscoe Village Neighbors, and the Lakeview Roscoe Chamber for their input and guidance during the planning process and their patience during the construction.” 

 
“I am thrilled to see this project finally become a reality. Major intersections like this one have long been hurdles to cyclists and pedestrians, separating neighbors and neighborhoods from one another,” said 47^th Ward Alderman Matt Martin. “I am hopeful that the improvements that are being made, which include new and shorter pedestrian crosswalks and wider sidewalks, will once again make this intersection the thriving heart of west Lakeview.” 

 
"I am excited that this long-awaited project is finally moving forward.  The streetscape will help boost the commercial corridor, improve sightlines for bikes and pedestrians, and make the large intersection safer for everyone,” said 44th Ward Alderman Tunney.  

The project consists of improvements along Lincoln Avenue from Wellington Avenue to Melrose Street, Ashland Avenue from Barry Avenue to School Street, and Belmont Avenue from Ashland Avenue to Southport Avenue and is expected to be completed in Summer 2023. 
 
"While we recognize the challenges that these large-scale projects represent for the businesses on our commercial corridors, we know that the outcome of the Lincoln-Ashland-Belmont Reconstruction Project will reinvigorate West Lakeview while building a stronger and more beautiful community for years to come,” said Becca Girsch, Executive Director of Lakeview Roscoe Village Chamber of Commerce.  
 

Throughout construction the streets will remain open to motorists and pedestrians and access to businesses will be maintained. In order to keep the street open to traffic, parking will not be allowed in the area of active construction. In addition, there will be periodic parking restrictions on some side streets.