Bricktown Gets a Seat at the Table: Avondale Neighbors Help Shape the Future of Belmont & Kimball

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Avondale · July 27, 2026

Avondale's future just got a little more neighborhood-driven. This past Wednesday, July 22, the city launched the Belmont Blue Line Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD) Plan with a packed open house at NEIU's El Centro building at 3390 N. Avondale Ave. — and Bricktown residents showed up ready to be heard.

The 18-month planning process, backed by the Chicago Department of Planning and Development and the Regional Transportation Authority, kicked off its listening phase by gathering real feedback from neighbors on what they love about the Belmont and Kimball area — and what they want to see next. Post-it notes covered the boards: more housing, more parks, protected bike lanes on Kimball, and creative ideas for reimagining underused buildings. The plan aims to improve street safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders; increase public green spaces; and find ways to support both new and established businesses while honoring the neighborhood's rich cultural identity.

This is exactly the kind of civic moment Avondale is built for. The ETOD plan's stated goal is to develop a shared vision that honors what makes this neighborhood home — and the community's voice will shape every step. If you missed Wednesday's open house, this planning process is just getting started. Follow the 35th Ward and the Chicago Dept. of Planning and Development for upcoming engagement opportunities, and make sure Bricktown's perspective is front and center.

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/07/23/how-can-avondales-belmont-and-kimball-area-be-improved-neighbors-asked-to-weigh-in/