In May 2023, the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) engaged a consultant team led by SB Friedman Development Advisors in partnership with subconsultants Latent Design and Goodman Williams Group to assess and provide recommendations for a 1.7-mile segment of Milwaukee Avenue. The study area spanned from the Kennedy Expressway in the north to West Byron Street in the south, covering the Jefferson Park and Portage Park Community Areas. The primary goal of this study was to conduct a current market analysis and develop marketing materials to attract future development and businesses to this commercial corridor.

High business vacancy rates, exacerbated by the pandemic, have posed a significant challenge for the corridor. Local businesses and residents are actively seeking assistance to address these concerns, preserve existing businesses and attract new investments. This initiative builds upon the adopted Jefferson Park Station Area Master Plan (2018), Six Corners Economic Development Master Plan (2013) and the Milwaukee/Lawrence Corridor Study (2008).

Input throughout the process was gathered from a stakeholder group, including Ald. James Gardiner (45th), local Chambers of Commerce and neighborhood groups.

Download the Milwaukee Avenue Market Study

Download the marketing materials