Participatory Budgeting in the 26th Ward

The 26th Ward Office is currently accepting ideas for infrastructure projects for the 2025 construction season. You can submit your ideas by calling our office at 773-395-0143 or filling out this form.

Every year, each Alderperson receives $1.5 million for ward infrastructure improvements called a Menu. This is one of the few sources of funding made available to Alderpeople to repave streets, resurface alleys, and make critically needed infrastructure improvements.

In the 26th Ward, Alderperson Jessie Fuentes empowers residents to decide how to spend $500,000 in improving their neighborhood – whether it be fixing specific curbs, resurfacing certain streets, or installing art murals – through participatory budgeting (PB).

Please note: PB DOES NOT include routine repairs like filing potholes, graffiti removal, or requesting a new garbage cart. Click here to request routine repairs and city services.

OPEN NOW!

Coming soon!

I have an infrastructure idea I’d like to submit. How can I submit my idea?

Residents can now submit infrastructure ideas to be considered for our 2025 cycle (and voted on at the end of 2024) by filling out this form or by calling our office before Friday, November 1, 2024.

What types of ideas can I submit?

  • The idea must be a “capital improvement,” e.g. bricks, cement, asphalt, and steel.

    • PB money CANNOT be used to purchase equipment or hire staff.

  • The idea must be for public property - city streets, sidewalks, alleys, public parks, or public schools.

  • The idea must be in the 26th Ward.

  • The idea must include at least 2 photos.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How are projects selected?

For the 2025 Menu, the 26th Ward Office will collect infrastructure improvement ideas from residents via an online form, during community walks, and phone. All ideas for the 2025 Menu are due on Friday, November 1, 2024. Ideas will be reviewed internally for need, cost, and feasibility. By December 2024, the ballot will be created with categories for residents to vote for their preferred infrastructure investments. Winning projects are typically implemented in the spring, summer, and fall, depending on the scope of the project.

Timeline:

  • Phase 1 - Idea Collection: Due Friday, November 1, 2024

  • Phase 2 - Proposal Development: November

  • Phase 3 - Voting: December

  • Phase 4 - Project Implementation: 2025

Who can vote?

Residents of the 26th Ward who are over 14 years-old may vote.