Special Service Area (SSA) #81

Promoting economic viability and beautification in Auburn Gresham.

2025 RenFest Forms

SSA #81: A Community on the Rise!

For more information about current initiatives and SSA #69, please contact (773) 723-6077.

SSA #81, established in 2025,

SSA #81 is making history as the first SSA to include residents, and the energy in our community has never been more electrifying! With boundaries stretching from 83rd & Vincennes east to 83rd & Lafayette, then south to 91st St before curving northwest back to 83rd & Vincennes, our vibrant neighborhood is buzzing with opportunity.

From exciting new development projects to community events that bring neighbors together, the momentum in our area is undeniable. Growth is on the horizon, creating incredible opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and deeper connections.

Local businesses are embracing bold new ideas, while fresh initiatives are amplifying diverse voices and fostering a strong sense of belonging. Our community engagement efforts are empowering residents, ensuring that everyone has a stake in shaping the future of SSA #81.

As we move forward, the collective passion and determination of our residents will continue to drive positive change. Together, we are building something extraordinary—a stronger, more connected, and more dynamic Greater Auburn Gresham. Let’s keep the energy alive and create a future we can all be proud of!

  • SSA#81 Commissioner Meetings
    Dates: TBD
    Location: 8237 S Princeton
    Time: 10:00 am to 11:30 am

    20th Annual 79th Street Renaissance Festival
    Date: 9-6-25
    Location: 79th & Racine
    Time: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm

    Festival Planning Meetings
    Date(s): 6-24-25, 7-22-25, 8-29-25
    Location: AG Healthy Lifestyle Hub 839 W 79th. St. Call for Zoom link
    Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am

    Summer Food Vendor Certification Class See Shanell
    Date: 4-16-25
    Location: Fifth Third Bank 8140 S Ashland Ave. Chicago, IL 60620
    Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

    SSA#81 Advisory Committee Meetings
    Date: TBD
    Location: Call for Zoom link
    Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am

    Facade Enhancement Program
    Opens: January 1, 2025
    Ends: July 1, 2025

    Summer Facade Enhancement Internship Program
    Date: May 5, through August 22, 2025 Kanderson@gagdc.org
    Location: 839 W. 79th st ; Chicago, IL 60620

    Graduate Architecture, Planning, & Graphic Design
    Students may submit resumes to: Contact: Khayeem Anderson (773) 487-4971
    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

  • The Façade Enhancement Program is designed to encourage investment and development within the boundaries SSA#81 87th Street Business Corridor by offering free architectural services and a building improvement grant up to $50,000 to residence and business owners located within the boundaries of SSA#81.

    The general boundary of SSA#81 includes 83rd & Vincennes east to 83rd & Lafayette. 83rd & Lafayette south to 91st St northwest to 83rd Vincennes. Architectural services include but are not limited to details impacting signage, awnings, doors, exterior lighting, windows, and building masonry.

    Program Eligibility Guidelines:

    Business must be located within the SSA#81 Business District

    ● Business/Homeowner must complete Facade Enhancement Application

    ● Grants must be used to improve the Facade of building

    ● Facade improvements include signage, awnings, doors, exterior lightning, building masonry, and windows

    ● Facade projects must meet city and SSA#81 building improvement requirements

    (see City of Chicago signage guidelines at www.cityofchicago.org)

    PDF Link

    For more information regarding this program contact the SSA#81 Management office at: 773-723-6077.

  • Accounting Services

    Auditor of SSA#81

    Debris Removal

    Security Services

    Landscaping

    • 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

  • Item description
  • Item description

SSA-funded projects can include: