Content area
Full text
Does Bronzeville have what it takes to be a viable business location?
Community organizers are doing their best to polish the neighborhood's image, and there has been progress. More than 80 new housing units that could help spur commercial development have been built. The Illinois Institute of Technology has a multimillion dollar plan to upgrade its nearby campus. And the city of Chicago will build its new central police headquarters at 35th and State streets.
But the Near South Side neighborhood lacks large spots suitable for the industrial companies that offer high-wage jobs, commercial real estate developers say. And many retailers won't consider opening stores in neighborhoods where large blocks of homes still stand in disrepair.
"A combination of new residents and new investment is making the area attractive," says Pat Dowell-Cerasoli, executive director of Mid-South Planning and Development Commission in Chicago. "Attractive for what is the question."
Many are betting on tourism.
Eight Bronzeville buildings are being considered for landmark designation by the Commission on Chicago Landmarks. Community groups hope the buildings in the quasi-historic district will draw tourists which, they believe, will encourage other businesses to open.
"We are building on the history of African-Americans, linking it to the industry of heritage tourism," says Harold Lucas, executive director of...