Pilsen Residents Shape Future of El Paseo Trail at December Community Design Workshop

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Pilsen · December 21, 2025

Pilsen community members gathered at Novel Pizza Cafe this past week for a special design workshop focused on the El Paseo Trail project, bringing new momentum to the long-discussed neighborhood initiative. The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) event invited residents to provide hands-on input for the transformation of the abandoned railway corridor into a vibrant community space.

Teresa Praga, who has lived in Pilsen for 58 years and serves on the Pilsen Neighbors Community Council board, expressed excitement about the renewed focus on utilizing the "abandoned and underutilized land." "Our opportunity as a Mexican community is to have a Paseo where you can walk," she noted, suggesting the path should serve as "a historical marker of Pilsen." The workshop built upon previous community meetings where residents shared ideas for incorporating cultural elements, green spaces, and recreational areas along the corridor between 16th Street and Cermak Road. Officials emphasized that plans remain in early stages, with a final framework not expected until 2026, as they work to ensure the trail becomes a true community resource for recreation and connectivity.

The workshop represents a significant step forward in the community-driven process, with Alderperson Byron Sigcho-Lopez emphasizing that resident input remains central to the project's development. Pilsen neighbors can look forward to additional opportunities to participate in shaping this neighborhood improvement project in the coming months, with more details available through CDOT's website or at the alderperson's office on 18th Street.

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2024/11/19/is-the-city-reviving-efforts-to-build-el-paseo-trail-in-pilsen/
2. https://news.wttw.com/2024/11/21/plan-transform-abandoned-railway-pilsen-sparks-gentrification-concerns-some-residents