Special Service Area (SSA) #69
Promoting economic viability and beautification in Auburn Gresham.
For more information about current initiatives and SSA #69, please contact (773) 723-6077.
SSA #69, established in 2015, strives to improve economic vitality, area beautification, and streetscape maintenance on both sides of Ashland Ave from 80th street through 95th street.
For more information about current initiatives and SSA #69, please contact (773) 723-6077.
With a focus on promoting a safe, clean, and viable business district, SSA #69 launched the "Build on Ashland" marketing campaign to drive commercial and economic development. The Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation (GAGDC) serves as the Service Provider for SSA#69, entrusted with funding, reporting, and programming for neighborhood and business initiatives along the corridor.
Urban Green Team’s Impact
Small Businesses Deserve Big Care or Big Care for Small Businesses
The Urban Green Team is our trusted partner for debris removal and weekly cleaning services throughout SSA #69. Their work helps maintain a clean, welcoming environment for residents, visitors, and local businesses.
Why It Matters
Weekly cleaning keeps our business district vibrant and inviting.
Local employment supports economic mobility and neighborhood pride.
Partnership-driven impact aligns with SSA #69’s mission for growth, beauty and equity.
Private Security
Keeping Our Community Safe
Page Security is a Black-owned security firm founded on service, experience, and a commitment to community safety. Owned and operated by veterans and retired law enforcement professionals, the firm brings 25 years of organizational experience to protecting the people and businesses it serves.
Beyond their security responsibilities, officers prioritize community engagement and relationship-building, becoming familiar and approachable faces along the corridor. Through consistent patrols, professional service, and a community-oriented approach, Page Security contributes to a welcoming environment where local businesses can operate and the community can feel more secure.
Protecting Our Local Assets
Page Security helps support a safer commercial corridor throughout Special Service Area (SSA) 69 by providing patrol services Tuesday through Saturday, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Working in support of the Chicago Police Department, Page Security officers help promote a visible security presence and provide an added layer of protection for local businesses, their employees, customers, and visitors.
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SSA#69 Commissioner Meetings
Dates: 2-13-26; 3-18-26; 6-10-26; 11-18-26Location: Call for Zoom link
Time: 8:30 am to 10:00 am21st Annual 79th Street Renaissance Festival
Date: 9-12-26
Location: 79th & Racine
Time: 10:00 am - 7:00 pmFestival Planning Meetings
Date(s): 6-30-26, 7-21-26, 8-25-26
Location: AG Healthy Lifestyle Hub 839 W 79th. St. Call for Zoom link
Time: 8:30 am - 10:00 amSummer Food Vendor Certification Class
Date: 7-7-26
Location: 839 W 79th St., Bears Community Room
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pmSSA#69 Advisory Committee Meetings
Date: Wednesday 4-15-26
Location: Call for Zoom link
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 amFacade Enhancement Program
Opens: January 1, 2026
Ends: June 1, 2026Summer Facade Enhancement Internship Program
Date: May 4, through August 21, 2026Kanderson@gagdc.org
Location: 839 W. 79th st; Chicago, IL 60620Graduate Architecture, Planning, & Graphic Design
Students may submit resumes to: Contact: Khayeem Anderson (773) 723-6077
Kanderson@gagdc.org."Shop Til You Drop"
First 10 people that spend $100 on Ashland, between 80th & 95th Street, during the month of April will receive a $50 gift certificate. Gift certificate can be obtained on May 5th through May 11th at 839 W 79th St, from Mr. Anderson with proof of purchase.
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The Facade Enhancement Program was created and developed by economic development consultant C Johnson and Associates. This program encourages owner investment as well as commercial development on the Ashland Avenue Business District.
The Facade Enhancement program offers architectural services to participants by providing grants up to $5,000 to eligible businesses located within the SSA #69 business district. Approved grant recipients will receive the following services:
— One-on-one architectural consultations
— Professional renderings
— Financial resources and grants related to the proposed renovation
— Visible beautification of their store as a result of upgraded facade improvements
— Enhanced curb appeal of the Ashland Avenue Business DistrictAs part of the program's guidelines, all facade improvements must be visible to pedestrians on the main thoroughfare and must contribute to the overall beautification / improvement of the SSA #69 Business District.
Program Eligibility Guidelines:
Any business or building owner located within SSA#69 seeking to invest in the improvement of their building's facade via the Facade Enhancement program must complete an application available through the SSA #69 management office. All applications must be approved by GAGDC and SSA management prior to starting any work and/or improvements . Download application guidelines by clicking on the PDF link.
For more information regarding this program contact the SSA#69 Management office at: 773-723-6077.
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Public way maintenance and beautification
District marketing and advertising
Business retention and attraction
Special events and promotional activities
Auto and bike transit
Security
Façade improvements
Debris Removal
Community Art
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The Urban Green Team is our partners for debris removal. The company provides needed services and job opportunities for area residents as well as for individuals who need a second chance in the workforce . They provide regularly scheduled, weekly cleaning services throughout our Special Service Area helping to ensure a clean and inviting business district for area residents and local business customers.
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The Urban Green Team also provides landscaping services such as weeding, mulching, and greening services for over 30 blocks of space located within the Business District. They make sure the trees, grasses, and shrubs are maintained to ensure area beautification.
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