Programs & Initiatives
The South East Chicago Commission enhances the quality of life in its target neighborhoods through a variety of initiatives that support economic development and other aspects of community life. For more information about any of these programs, please contact the SECC.
Building Code Enforcement
The SECC works closely with property owners, residents, and the City of Chicago’s Department of Buildings and Department of Law in an ongoing effort to maintain and improve the building stock in our communities. Our efforts in this area include encouraging owners to maintain their property to ensure good housing stock, fielding neighbor complaints, monitoring local buildings, and requesting city inspections.
Business District Program
Encourages business recruitment and retention by marketing the Hyde Park business district, being a storehouse of information for prospective business owners, working together with other business oriented community groups and the City of Chicago Department of Housing and Economic Development to improve the local business districts.
Neighborhood Enhancement Grant Program
The SECC awards grants of up to $10,000 to neighborhood organizations to support beautification projects that enhance the quality of life in our neighborhoods and allows us to work together as community partners for the improvement of all our areas. Recent projects include the creation of a reading garden at a Hyde Park school, the installation of picnic tables and planter boxes at a service organization in Oakland, and refurbished concrete planters for a garden in Woodlawn. Since 1999, we have granted nearly $500,000 in beautification funds.
Transportation
Transportation issues are reviewed and problems brought to the attention of the appropriate agencies to improve the transportation possibilities in each community.
Community Housing
For persons interested in moving to the area, the service directs them to the appropriate property manager based on the specified criteria.
Flower Power Program
This program is an initiative geared toward Hyde Park businesses and organizations to enhance and beautify the commercial corridors of the community.
