New Urban Farm Initiative Breaks Ground on Near West Side Community Plot

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Near West Side ·

The Near West Side is gaining a new sustainable food source as the COLLAB Network breaks ground on an innovative urban farm initiative this week. The project aims to strengthen local food access through substantial grants, collaborative training, and resource-sharing opportunities that build capacity and amplify collective impact on community nutrition. The initiative includes comprehensive training on program design, evaluation, and implementation for local residents interested in urban agriculture.

The Near West Side continues to be an epicenter of development in Chicago, with the 27th Ward seeing 36 new projects totaling

3 billion between January 2023 and September 2025, according to Chicago Plan Commission data. This new urban farm project is part of a broader effort to redirect resources to West Side businesses, creating jobs and economic stability while fueling community growth. Through mission-driven lenders, the initiative will support sustainable economic development and opportunity for residents.

Community members interested in participating can attend an information session scheduled for November 18th at the West Central Association offices. The project is actively seeking volunteers for the initial planting phase, which will begin next month. Residents can sign up through the West Side United website or contact the COLLAB Network directly for more details about getting involved.

Sources:
1. https://www.westsideunited.org/
2. https://www.chicagobusiness.com/crains-forum-neighborhood-vitality/development-chicago-continues-look-lopsided