Located on the west side of Chicago, North Lawndale has suffered from disinvestment over the past 50 years, but community members are working hard to reverse that trend. Organizations like the Westside Association for Community Action (WACA) have been working hand-in-hand with residents to revitalize the neighborhood through community spaces and services like workforce programs, food bank resources, and emergency services. They currently own and operate WACA Bell Park, which in its heyday, was the center of activity for youth, basketball games, and community events. As resources for upkeep have declined in recent years, the park isn’t as welcoming to local residents with minimal shade and cracked asphalt. But Trust for Public Land is partnering with WACA to change that by creating a beautiful space where art meets function.

WACA Bell Park is one of the first projects in Under the Grid, an initiative using public art to revitalize 15 blocks between the Pulaski and Kedzie neighborhoods. TPL has helped lead community engagement sessions to redesign WACA Bell Park, ensuring that it’s built with the community, for the community. Once complete, the park will be playful, active, colorful, open, and green—all ideas captured directly from residents during the engagement process. We’re thinking of innovative ways to add-in green infrastructure, like a solar artist that will seamlessly merge art and solar technology, to create a space worthy of hosting the ultimate block party. New trees, a colorful basketball court, and modern seating will help rejuvenate the park to its glory days—an outdoor space that’s safe and welcoming for everyone.