More Funding for Open Space Passes City Council

Friends applauds the Chicago City Council’s passage of an amendment to the Open Space Impact Fee Ordinance (OSIF), which will increase funding to address current open space investment needs in the city. The amended ordinance, adopted September 18, 2024, will increase open space impact fees, encourage the installation of native plants, and raise more funds to create new green spaces that support wildlife, expand recreational opportunities, and provide additional stormwater absorption. Details about this proposed ordinance change is available here.

Friends supported amending the ordinance as we advocate for more connected open space along the Chicago-Calumet River system and beyond. Our Chicago River Wildlife Habitat Action Plan helps identify strategies, methodologies, and future project opportunities to expand river-system habitat connectivity.

Thank you to everyone who answered our call on social media to contact City Council members to urge the adoption of these positive open space changes to the ordinance.