SSA Expansion Project

For the past twenty-six years, the Southwest Business District (Special Service Area #3) has included approximately 300 businesses located in a concentrated commercial district along a three-mile stretch of 63^rd street.

In late 2009, the 63^rd Street Growth Commission initiated the process for expanding Special Service Area (SSA) #3 to include businesses located in the adjoining West Lawn commercial district, an expansion that will bring the total number of businesses in the SSA to over 600. Click here to see a map of the Expanded Business District.

The expansion project involves a lengthy process that will be completed in 2010. Our goal during the process is to continue engaging business owners in 63^rd Street Growth Commission initiatives, special projects, networking events, and educational opportunities. We welcome and encourage both new and existing business owners to contact us, or to visit our online calendar and plan to attend a meeting of the Board of Commissioners.

What is a Special Service Area?

Earning the designation of Special Service Area (SSA) allows a business district to fund enhanced programs and services through a small local property tax. Enhanced services include special marketing initiatives, business education and technical assistance, streetscape beautification projects, and financial incentives. 

Everyone living and working in the SSA benefits from a stronger business district as this leads to an increase in business services and shopping, property values, esthetics, and community safety.

What is the role of the 63rd Street Growth Commission?

The 63^rd Street Growth Commission is a part of a network of local business owners who hold a shared vision of a strong retail economy. Network members attend brainstorming sessions, provide input on marketing initiatives, and weigh in on proposed special projects. 

The 63^rd Street Growth Commission’s primary role is responsible stewardship of SSA #3 funds. In the past five years alone, the Growth Commission has invested over $1 million into the district. To learn more about the Growth Commission, visit the About section of this web site.

What is the benefit to business owners who are becoming part of SSA #3?

The owners of businesses located in the expanded SSA will discover significant benefits. First, the expansion brings access to enhanced programs and services that support business growth. For details on our services, please visit the Members section of this web site.

Second, the expansion gives business owners the opportunity to become involved in guiding the strategic direction of Growth Commission initiatives. We actively seek and encourage participation and input from business owners located in the district.

Third, the expansion allows the Growth Commission to take advantage of “economies of scale.” Funding can be better leveraged to maximize return on investment, services are cost-effectively centralized under one roof, and experienced staff are readily available to support local business owners.

Who leads the 63^rd Street Growth Commission?

The 63^rd Street Growth Commission is guided by a dedicated group of local business people who form its Board of Commissioners. Members of the Board of Commissioners are appointed by the Mayor following confirmation by Chicago’s City Council.

Current members of the Board of Commissioners are listed in the About section of this web site. The expansion project requires a new board composition that includes six Commissioners from the West Lawn neighborhood who will represent the interests of business owners in that area.

What is the process for the expansion?

The expansion process was launched when the 63^rd Street Growth Commission sent certified letters to all property owners located within the proposed expanded area. The letter explained what will happen, when it will happen, and also described the property tax and how the funding will be used to enhance commercial businesses in the SSA.

The second step in the process was a public hearing, which was held in December 2009. The public hearing gave interested parties – both business owners and residents – the opportunity to voice their concerns or give their endorsement for the proposed expansion. It is mandated that for the proposed expansion to move forward, at least 51% of residents and 51% of business owners must agree to the plan. No one attended the public hearing to oppose the proposed expansion. In fact, the Growth Commission received several letters of support!

Once the public hearing process was completed the Growth Commission began identifying West Lawn business owners who might be interested in serving on the Board of Commissioners. This step also includes a “vetting” process during which the Chicago City Council reviews proposed members and makes recommendations. Once members are approved by the Council, they will be appointed by the Mayor. This process is currently underway, and we anticipate completing it by May of 2010. 

Please visit our web site frequently as we will regularly add Expansion News updates!