Our Great Rivers Chicago

Our Great Rivers was launched in 2016 as the first-ever comprehensive vision for the Calumet, Chicago, and Des Plaines rivers. Unlocking the region’s river system as an untapped asset, the initiative aims to spark economic development, create greater connectivity between communities, and showcase the natural beauty of the riverfront. To date, it has made more than $3.7 million in grants to 26 projects. One of those projects is Confluence, spearheaded by the North River Commission, which seeks to build a neighborhood gateway to Albany Park. The project is bringing in more amenities to the riverfront area around Ronan Park to serve as a catalyst for economic investment for the Lawrence Avenue commercial corridor. It includes the only affordable housing development in the city to use the riverfront as an anchor. The project also takes advantage of the Connected Communities Ordinance that passed in 2022 to create affordable housing near transit. #Chicago #Philanthropy #NeighborhoodInvestment