Ward Night Recap: September 15, 2026
Thanks to everyone who attended our September 15, 2026 Ward Night. Here’s a summary of what we discussed:
LOWERING RESIDENTIAL SPEED LIMITS. Ald. Manaa-Hoppenworth introduced an ordinance to the Committee on Pedestrian and Traffic Safety to lower the speed limit from 25 to 20 mph on residential streets on the north side of the 48th Ward. The ordinance passed on Tuesday, September 15.
Evidence proves that drivers are more likely and quickly able to come to a complete stop when going 20 mph, greatly reducing the chance for collisions. In terms of crashes, pedestrian survival rates are up to 90% when drivers go 20 mph.
Speed limit reduction is one of many traffic safety strategies the alderwoman is emplying throughout the ward. Others include safer crosswalks, neighborhood greenways, pedestrian improvements, bike infrastructure, and safer street designs; all proven measures that help save lives.
Many of the major roads that run through the 48th Ward are managed by IDOT at the state level. This makes it more difficult to install certain traffic safety measures. The alderwoman is coordinating with state departments on solutions.
If you notice places in the ward that feel dangerous for pedestrians, cyclists, or people with mobility devices, please contact our office with the specific intersection and specific dangerous behavior.
SMART STREETS PILOT. Launched last year by the City of Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) and the Department of Finance (DOF), the Smart Streets pilot program uses camera technology on City vehicles – and now CTA buses – to enforce parking and standing violations in bus and bike lanes. This pilot is expected to expand to new bus routes soon.
SUPPORT FOR UNHOUSED NEIGHBORS. Thank you to all of the neighbors who reach out to our office to report neighbors in need of services and unsafe activity in the parks. When you report a tent or neighbor in need of assistance to our office, we share the information with the Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) and the Chicago Park District. From there, DFSS works to get our neighbors to help and resources they need including shelter while the Park District works on enforcement.
Thanks to your help and concern, DFSS is out in our ward providing service 4-7 times a week on average. Over the last three years, our team alongside DFSS and providers, has helped nearly 200 neighbors transition from lakefront encampments into stable housing.
Visit our blog to learn more about how we're supporting neighbors experiencing homelessness and how you can help.
Register for the next Ward Night on Tuesday, October 6 Ward Night here.
