Chicago Considering a 'Pop-Up' Storefront Program

The new program would allow short-term use of vacant properties, and provide new incubation capabilities to small, start-up businesses.

1 minute read

August 6, 2018, 2:00 PM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell

Carolyn Franks / Shutterstock

"Chicago is on the verge of implementing a novel way of enlivening streetscapes," according to an article by Elizabeth Blasius.

"To combat the spread of vacant storefronts across the city and particularly in economically-challenged neighborhoods, a proposed ordinance would let entrepreneurs test pop-up concepts in empty spaces for anywhere from only five days to a full year."

According to a press release from the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP), the City Council will consider an ordinance that creates a licensing system "to allow for the operation of short-term 'pop-up' stores, including restaurants."

"If approved by City Council, the new license will provide the option of a 5-, 30-, 90-, 180-, or 365-day license, depending on their business activity, all at a very low cost and without an on-site inspection," adds the press release. "In fact, the user license is not tied to a location, so the holder can 'roam' during the length of the license and operate all around the city."

The article by Blasius provides more insight about the potential impact the program could have on communities around the city.

FULL STORY: Chicago proposes experiment with pop-up urbanism

Thursday, August 2, 2018 in The Architect's Newspaper

Community / Economic Development Urban Development Illinois Chicago Pop-Up Planning Temporary Leases community revitalization Vacant Storefronts Pup-Up Urbanism interim use View More

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