Fit City Kids Facility Gets Green Light: New Recreational Space Coming to Portage Park

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Portage Park · November 15, 2025

Portage Park families have exciting news to celebrate as the proposed Fit City Kids recreational facility at 5820 N. Milwaukee Avenue has received strong community support. The development, which would replace the former Produce Center/Guitar Center building, has been enthusiastically endorsed by local residents during recent community presentations.

The new facility joins other positive developments in the neighborhood, including plans for the historic Portage Theater revival. The theater's new owner, Chris Bauman, plans to establish the Portage Theater Foundation, a nonprofit that would involve neighborhood groups in hosting events and maintaining the venue. Bauman envisions creating a diverse community center that will host concerts, film screenings, indoor markets, and various performances. "I want to offer things people who went there in the 1950s can see and be nostalgic about, but also things teenagers in the neighborhood can go to," Bauman said.

Portage Park residents interested in learning more about these exciting developments are encouraged to attend upcoming community meetings. The Portage Park Advisory Council meets on the 4th Monday of odd-numbered months from 7:00 to 8:30 PM, providing perfect opportunities for neighbors to share input and stay informed about these projects enhancing our vibrant community.

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/jefferson-park-portage-park-norwood-park/
2. https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/10/24/historic-portage-theater-has-a-new-owner-who-plans-to-revive-it-as-a-community-space/