Stitching It Together: Framework Plan for Brighton Park and Gage Park
We provided market-driven insights to improve neighborhood connections and spur investment surrounding the new Chicago Park District headquarters as part of an award-winning plan.
City of Chicago Department of Planning and Development (DPD)
Market Analysis, Economic Development Strategies / Plans
Chicago, IL
SOM, Urban Works and Omni Ecosystems
The Stitching It Together planning corridor extends along the intersection of two Chicago neighborhoods: Brighton Park and Gage Park. The two neighborhoods have historically had poor connectivity due to a rail line restricting travel to a limited number of intersections. Following a substantial investment in a new Chicago Park District Headquarters facility in the study area, the City of Chicago Department of Planning and Development (DPD) partnered with SB Friedman to better understand how to leverage the initial investment to spur additional investments related to housing production, community health and economic development.
Work Completed
Assessed demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the corridor
Conducted a housing market analysis evaluating the type, pace and performance of recent developments relative to legacy inventory
Identified priority economic industry growth patterns and job-generating opportunities to be targeted within the corridor
Assessed foot traffic patterns associated with key public anchors
Synthesized findings to inform strategies and policy recommendations advancing the City's housing and economic development goals
Results
The Chicago Plan Commission adopted the final plan in June 2024. It received the Strategic Plan Award by the Illinois Chapter of the American Planning Association in 2025.
