About SSA #61

Downtown Hyde Park is the creation of Chicago Special Service Area #61, which is comprised of the 53rd Street and Lake Park Avenue corridors. Special Service Areas, known as Business Improvement Districts or BIDs in other cities, are local tax districts that fund expanded services and programs through a localized property tax levy within contiguous areas. The enhanced services and programs are in addition to those currently provided through the City.

SSA-funded projects typically include but are not limited to: public way maintenance and beautification; district marketing and advertising; business retention/attraction, special events and promotional activities; auto and bike transit; security; facade improvements; and other commercial and economic development initiatives.

The City contracts with local non-profits, called Service Providers, to manage SSAs. Mayorally-appointed SSA Commissioners for each SSA district oversee and recommend the annual services, budget and Service Provider Agency to the City. For additional information, visit the City of Chicago’s SSA Program online or download this presentation.

Current SSA Projects

SSA Special Events Funding Program

To nurture and build public awareness of the neighborhood’s unique history and culture through the sponsorship of public programs and initiatives that enhance the quality of life within the Hyde Park community, the DTHP SSA #61 sponsors public events that demonstrate a measurable benefit to the community and foster community growth and development, with a focus on DTHP’S continued growth as a destination for residents, visitors and tourists.

Click here for SSA#61 Special Events Funding program details.

SSA Commissioner Meetings

Commissioner meetings of the Special Service Area Hyde Park #61 Chicago IL are open to the public. The meetings will be held virtually until further notice.

2022 Meeting Schedule
Meeting locations are date specific:

  • January 25th @ 11:00 am
  • February – No Meeting
  • March 22nd @ 7:00 pm
  • April 26th @ 11:00 am
  • May 24th @ 11:00 am
  • June 28th @ 11:00 am
  • July 26th @ 11:00 am
  • August 23rd @ 11:00 am
  • September 27th @ 11:00 am
  • October 25th @ 7:00 pm
  • November – No Meeting
  • December 13th @ 11:00 am

SSA Meeting Minutes