U.S. Bank announced that financing is in place for the first phase of a retail development for Pullman Park, which will provide 1,000 permanent and 700 construction jobs. In addition, the development will expand access to groceries and basic retail goods and services, and increase the tax base on 52 acres of vacant, former industrial land on Chicago’s south side.

Also, the State of Illinois announced a $4.6 million grant for the second phase of road and infrastructure improvements on Woodlawn/Doty Avenue between 103rd Street and 106th Street. The infrastructure upgrades, assisted with Ike disaster recovery funds, will strengthen and elevate the road by 3-4 feet, which has continued to deteriorate after flooding in 2008. The Ike funds will also support substantial sewer and water main improvements, which coupled with the road upgrades, will serve to mitigate future flooding of this stretch of road leading up to the retail site. “This funding will help Pullman Park make much-needed repairs to flood-damaged roads and water mains,” said Governor Pat Quinn. Future phases of Pullman Park, which will be 174 acres in all, will include neighborhood retail stores along 111th Street, housing development, a recreation center, and a 10-acre park.