MPDC Earns $200,000 Grant to Boost 35th Street with Public Art and Street Furniture
The McKinley Park Development Council has been awarded a $200,000 grant from The Chicago Community Trust to enliven 35th Street between Archer and Ashland with public art and creative street fixtures such as seating and trash cans. MPDC will host matchmaking events pairing Southwest Side artists with owners of 35th Street businesses and buildings in order to create murals for each of those locations. MPDC will also commission artists to create or decorate street furniture for the 35th Street Business Corridor. Nearly 20 artists have already applied to be part of the project, and many 35th Street businesses have expressed interest in having art, benches, trash cans, bollards and bike racks installed.
These street amenities and works of public art will help revitalize 35th Street in a way that reflects the community’s cultural diversity, supports and attracts local businesses, enhances pedestrian safety and accessibility and uplifts local artists. The result will be a 35th Street Business Corridor that serves as a lively, frequently visited commercial and community hub for McKinley Park residents and visitors.
Work will begin soon and continue through fall 2027, with the first artworks to be installed next summer. Art will include themes suggested by neighbors at past and forthcoming community events.
All grant funds beyond program operating expenses will be paid directly to artists. Local artists whose work reflects the vibrancy and culture of McKinley Park can get involved in this project by sending a letter of interest, bio, and work samples to info@mpdcchicago.org.
Additional Background:
The Chicago Community Trust previously supported an MPDC project to develop the South Branch Connectivity Project Framework Plan, which was published in 2024 and includes recommendations for connecting 35th Street to the riverfront and neighboring communities.
This public art project is part of a larger MPDC business development effort to revitalize the 35th Street commercial corridor by attracting new businesses and pedestrian traffic. Revitalization of 35th Street is an important component of the McKinley Park Neighborhood Plan, the Plan for 35th Street, and the South Branch Connectivity Project.
In February 2025, following successful advocacy efforts by MPDC, zoning for the corridor was right sized to fit existing buildings — an important first step in revitalizing a commercial corridor. MPDC is actively fundraising for the larger revitalization project, organizing business owners for joint events, hosting community gatherings and developing a wayfinding plan for the neighborhood and the riverfront.
