Community Discussion on Jarvis Square Parking & Traffic Issues

Dear Neighbor,

I am writing to invite you to attend a discussion about parking and traffic in the Jarvis Square business district.  The meeting will take place on Wednesday, April 9th, 7:00 p.m. at my 49th Ward Service Office, 7356 N. Greenview (at Jarvis).

This discussion was prompted by a request from businessman Tony Barbanente, who has asked for the installation of parking meters and diagonal parking on the north side of Jarvis between the Jarvis el station and Ashland. 

As you may recall, Mr. Barbanente plans to open a "Belgian Ale House" at 1547 W. Jarvis.  He also plans to open a fitness center at 1538-50 W. Jarvis, across the street from the Ale House in the property that was formerly occupied by Lee's Mart and adjacent storefronts.  Mr. Barbanente believes the parking meters and diagonal parking are necessary for his businesses to succeed. 

Rather than consider Mr. Barbanente's proposals in isolation, I want to take a more comprehensive look at parking and traffic concerns for the entire Jarvis Square business district, which encompasses the 1500 block of W. Jarvis (between Greenview and Ashland) and portions of the 7300 and 7400 blocks of N. Greenview. 

I'm thrilled with the new businesses which have opened in Jarvis Square in the last few years, and I want them to succeed.  But I also want to make sure that any measures to address their parking and traffic needs do not unduly impact the surrounding neighborhood.

I'm interested in hearing your views and look forward to your input.  Please join me at my office on Wednesday, April 9th for a thoughtful discussion.  If you are unable to attend, please feel free to share your thoughts by replying to this e-mail or calling my office at 773-338-5796.

Sincerely,

Joe Moore