Sheridan Road + Howard Street SSA Renewals

Engaging local businesses, residents, & property owners in the midst of a pandemic

Rogers Park · Chicago, IL

Project Highlights

  • Close coordination with RPBA & City of Chicago
  • Series of in-person and online Advisory Meetings and Community Workshops
  • Virtual engagement, compelling graphics, and interactive polls
  • Build database of all SSA properties including modeling cost to each property
  • Develop 5-year operating budget reflecting service priorities
  • Deliverables: District Plans and Market Studies for two (2) SSAs

Teska facilitated the outreach and technical support for the renewal of two Special Service Areas (SSA) in the Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago: Sheridan Road SSA #54 and Howard Street SSA #19. The assignment included extensive community outreach to businesses, property owners and residents, preparing District Plans and Market Studies, and managing the renewal process for the Rogers Park Business Alliance (RPBA) and the City of Chicago. With outreach beginning face-to-face and then continuing virtually, the process showed why SSAs are so important in supporting and marketing local business districts.

“Top priorities for me are always safety, the arts, and small businesses. By growing those programs we will help attract residents and retain businesses.”

- Howard Street SSA #19 resident response to Needs Assessment Survey used to inform SSA service priorities



  • Local events, including Chalk Fest, featured local performers, artists, and musicians to celebrate the local history, culture, and diversity of neighborhood organizations, businesses and residents. | Image Credit: Chris Gullien

    Local events, including Chalk Fest, featured local performers, artists, and musicians to celebrate the local history, culture, and diversity of neighborhood organizations, businesses and residents. | Image Credit: Chris Gullien

  • In-person and online advisory group meetings and community workshops helped guide the renewal process and priorities. | Image Credit: Teska

    In-person and online advisory group meetings and community workshops helped guide the renewal process and priorities. | Image Credit: Teska

  • RPBA and local artist Nate Baranowski led a virtual event series via social media that attracted hundreds of viewers. | Image Credit: Chris Gullien

    RPBA and local artist Nate Baranowski led a virtual event series via social media that attracted hundreds of viewers. | Image Credit: Chris Gullien