Financial measures approved today by City Council will support improvements to four South Side elementary schools.

James Wadsworth Elementary School, 6650 S. Ellis Ave.
James Wadsworth Elementary School in Woodlawn will receive $500,000 in Tax increment Financing (TIF) for costs associated with the conversion of an asphalt schoolyard into gardens, outdoor classroom space, play areas, and water retention system. The $1.5 million project is part of the Space to Grow program, a public-private partnership with the Healthy Schools Campaign and Openlands conservation organization that transforms school grounds into outdoor spaces for students and the community. The remaining balance will be paid for with $500,000 each from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District and the Chicago Department of Water Management.

Charles W. Earle Elementary School, 2040 W. 62nd St.
Charles W. Earie Elementary School in West Englewood will receive $287,000 in TIF for the planning, design and construction of a new play lot with rubberized surfaces. TIF will pay the entire cost of the project.

Jane Addams Elementary School, 10810 S. Avenue H
Jane Addams Elementary School on the East Side will receive $1.7 million in TIF assistance to install new energy efficient windows and perform various masonry and structural upgrades. TIF will pay the entire cost of the project.

Matthew Gallistel Elementary Language Academy, 10347 S. Ewing Ave.
Matthew Gallistel Elementary Language Academy on the East Side will receive $2.7 million in TIF for a new roof, tuck pointing, air conditioning units and various floor, wall, ceiling and door repairs. TIF will pay the entire cost of the project.

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