Depending on who you talk to, there’s debate about whether West Bucktown exists. It may not be an official Chicago community, but residents of this small West Side borough have a sense of distinction that has prompted their own neighborhood association—and a fairly active one at that.
If you ask someone who has been in the city for decades, they will not likely refer to the area bordered by North Avenue, Western, California and Armitage as West Bucktown. However, in recent years this tiny half-square-mile haunt between the Humboldt Park, Logan Square and Bucktown neighborhoods has most definitely acquired its own identity.
The West Bucktown Neighborhood Association (WBNA) has become a strong presence in Chicago’s near Northwest Side. Its members are making a concerted effort to make a difference and create a sense of unity among those who call West Bucktown home. In addition to holding regular meetings with the local alderman and district police department, the organization gets people together for dozens of activities throughout the year. There are holiday events, summertime BBQs, neighborhood clean-ups, flower-planting parties, playgroups, charity drives and restaurant outings—to name a few. The WBNA also has committees designated to address zoning, neighborhood safety, environmental concerns, community relations and other issues that affect West Bucktown residents and business owners.
An advisory council for West Bucktown’s two parks was also assembled. The group was instrumental in renovating Maplewood Park and now has its sights set on giving Lucy Flower Park an overhaul this year. Both parks are frequented recreation spots for West Bucktown families. They provide outdoor space where kids can play, dogs can exercise and neighbors can meet.
Besides being on the streets of the West Bucktown neighborhood, WBNA is online with its own website and a regular e-newsletter that informs members of local news, upcoming events, newly-opened businesses and other relevant happenings. Several new single-family homes have gone up in West Bucktown in recent months and North Avenue is getting another new restaurant to add to the neighborhood’s growing dining scene.
For those who doubt West Bucktown’s existence, just keep in mind that Chicago is an ever-evolving patchwork of communities. It may not be one of the originals, but it looks like this newly-formed West Chicago neighborhood is here to stay.
Post by: Dream Town Chicago real estate
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