Tu Casa Is Coming to Division Street — and It Could Be Humboldt Park's Most Exciting New Space in Years

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Humboldt Park ·

A new community landmark is in the works on Paseo Boricua, and its address alone tells a story. Sisters Michelle and Melissa Gomez — the dynamic duo behind the annual Puerto Rican Festival and Parade — are spearheading the Tu Casa Project, a first-of-its-kind Puerto Rican community center planned for 2626 W. Division St. in the 26th Ward. The center would be the neighborhood's first Puerto Rican community hub in over six years, since Casa Puertorriqueña at 1237 N. California Ave. closed in 2018.

The vision for Tu Casa is ambitious and deeply rooted in the community's needs. Plans call for senior programming, barista training, and a cosmetology school — hands-on, career-building opportunities designed to keep residents invested in the neighborhood they call home. The Gomez sisters are working to raise

5 million for the project and are collaborating with local businesses to bring it to life. "Building on the legacy of Chicago's community leaders, we create a home where education and business dreams come to life," reads the project's mission. Ald. Jessie Fuentes has championed the effort, calling it a vital space for Puerto Ricans "not just in Humboldt Park but across the city of Chicago and the state of Illinois."

Meanwhile, the Chicago Park District's summer programming at Humboldt Park is already in full swing, with daily afternoon and evening programs running through August at the historic fieldhouse and Boathouse at 1301 N. Humboldt Drive. Whether you're curious about Tu Casa's progress or looking to plug into summer park activities, now is the perfect time to get involved — check chicagoparkdistrict.com for the full summer schedule.

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/03/21/first-puerto-rican-community-center-in-6-years-coming-to-humboldt-park/
2. https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/humboldt-alexander-von-park