Summary
The reuse and revitalization of vacant urban land presents new opportunities for economic activity, recreation, urban agriculture, housing, and wealth building. In Fall 2022, the City of Chicago launched a new vacant land sale program with an aim to revitalize vacant urban lots and stimulate economic growth. By marking and offering city-owned land below market value, and expanding eligibility beyond adjacent property owners as was the case for predecessor programs, the new initiative aims to foster housing development, commercial projects, urban agriculture, and wealth building opportunities.
The Great Cities Institute (GCI) at the University of Illinois at Chicago is spearheading a comprehensive evaluation of this program. The evaluation encompasses:
- Initial Report: Utilizing application data on applicants’ profiles, intended uses for the land, and demographic information. GCI will produce a report detailing who is participating in the program, where the land is being purchased, and the proposed uses, providing early insights into the program’s reach and appeal.
- Outcome Report: In Spring 2025, GCI will conduct an impact analysis focusing on four key areas:
- Land Utilization: Assessing whether the actual use of the land aligns with initial intentions through site surveys and analysis of building permit data.
- Neighborhood Crime Impact: Evaluating changes in crime rates on blocks with land sales compared to similar blocks without sales, to understand the program’s effect on community safety.
- Wealth Building Effects: Estimating changes in property values to determine potential wealth accumulation for individuals and entities that purchased land.
- Fiscal Impact on the City: Calculating the aggregate taxable value of the sold lots to assess the program’s financial benefits to the City of Chicago.
Through this evaluation, GCI aims to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the land sale program in promoting urban revitalization, economic development, and community enhancement. The findings will inform policymakers, stakeholders, and the public on the program’s successes and areas for improvement, contributing to future urban planning and development strategies.
People
Associate Director of Economic & Workforce Development, UIC Great Cities Institute