An initiative aimed at fostering equitable transit-oriented development is set to distribute $1.5 million in grants to artists in Chicago. This effort seeks to safeguard the cultural essence of neighborhoods facing the pressures of gentrification. The funding stems from a collaboration between Elevated Chicago and the MacArthur Foundation, with grants allocated over four years. Projects will focus on culturally significant community-driven endeavors, encouraging creative placemaking and placekeeping. The program emphasizes inclusivity, inviting applications from individual artists, collectives, entrepreneurs, and small businesses without geographic constraints.

Elevated Chicago's mission extends beyond financial support; it includes workshops designed to empower artists with essential skills for engaging in urban planning processes. These sessions will cover navigating city procurement, contract negotiation, proposal responses, branding, and grant writing. By expanding existing cross-sector working groups, Elevated aims to foster collaboration among artists and other stakeholders. The organization was established to address disparities in transit-oriented developments, which have predominantly benefited downtown and North Side areas, while neglecting communities on the South and West sides.

The decline in Chicago's Black population since 1980 highlights the urgency of this initiative. Factors such as better job prospects, safer neighborhoods, improved schools, and overall quality of life have driven many residents to relocate. Successful integration of arts and culture into development projects, like the Arts Lawn in Washington Park and Bronzeville’s Overton Center for Excellence, exemplifies the potential impact. Applications for grants will open in August, with selections made by a committee of fellow creatives.

Through these grants and workshops, Elevated Chicago hopes to bridge the gap between passion and professionalism for artists. Developer Phil Beckham emphasized the long-term benefits of public art in nurturing community spirit. Hyde Park muralist Dorian Sylvain shared her experiences growing up surrounded by influential women who instilled in her the interconnectedness of art, culture, and community. She lamented the marginalization of arts within society, urging a reevaluation of its importance.

The initiative not only provides financial resources but also equips artists with tools necessary to participate actively in shaping their urban environment. By fostering collaboration and professional growth, Elevated Chicago aims to ensure that artistic expression remains integral to neighborhood identity amidst changing urban landscapes.