Sloop Gets Moving: Neighbors Push a Bold New Bus Connector — And Martini Lounge Roars Back to Life on S. Wabash
By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/South Loop ·
South Loop neighbors, the neighborhood's momentum isn't just showing up in cranes and new towers — it's showing up in community action and buzzing nightlife, too. This week, South Loop Neighbors dropped a bold new transit proposal: a dedicated bus connector designed to link the booming southern end of the neighborhood to the broader CTA network. With The 78 mixed-use megaproject and a proposed 14th Street Railyard development reshaping the district's footprint, the group argues a new connector route — which could be implemented using existing street infrastructure without disturbing traffic or bike lanes — is essential to keeping pace with growth. Alderperson Pat Dowell (3rd) has signaled openness to the idea, calling it worthy of a professional feasibility analysis. South Loop Neighbors President Jim Wales and Director of Planning Tyler Jones have been championing the proposal, and neighborhood advocates are hoping it gains traction fast.
And while transit planners map out the Sloop's future commute, there's something worth toasting on S. Wabash Ave.: the iconic Martini Lounge at 1520 S. Wabash is staging a comeback under exciting new leadership. Former Chicago Bears player and restaurateur Israel Idonije — through his Pangea Restaurant Group — is taking the reins of the long-standing neighborhood watering hole, bringing fresh energy and a legacy of hospitality to the space. With a deep résumé that includes Buttercup, Signature Steak, and EGG BUNNi, Idonije is a genuine South Loop insider who lives and invests in this community.
From grassroots transit advocacy to a legendary bar's next chapter, the Sloop is proving that neighbors here don't just watch change happen — they drive it. What do you think of the bus connector proposal, and will you be popping into the new Martini Lounge? Share your take on Socialhood!
Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/07/30/south-loop-neighbors-pitch-new-bus-connector-as-development-booms-in-area/
2. https://www.modernluxury.com/most-anticipated-chicago-restaurant-openings/