By: Ashmar Mandou

Residents of the South Loop and Near North Side communities congregated at Second Presbyterian Church on Monday evening to gain additional information on the controversial McCormick Expansion and DePaul Arena development.

Hosted by The Prairie District Neighborhood Alliance (PDNA), residents learned some of the long-awaited specifics on how the developments will impact their neighborhood. Residents have consistently called upon elected officials to release the city’s master plans and traffic studies.

Among the attendees were Jim Reilly, MPEA Trustee, Brad McConnell, Deputy Commissioner of Housing and Economic Development, Centerpoint, Digital Realty, CDOT, architects, and Alderman Pat Dowell, who addressed constituent concerns.

In addition to discussing the McCormick expansion and DePaul arena, MPEA revealed positive details for the historic community, including a presentation on the preservation and relocation of the Landmark Harriet Reese House.

“The saving and relocation of the Rees house, along with a new park are positive signs that the MPEA and the city are making efforts,” said Tina Feldstein, president of PDNA. “But, the community still has many serious concerns about traffic, parking, and security,” said Feldstein. If you would like to learn more about PDNA and upcoming community meetings, visit www.pdnachicago.com or call 312-401-2688.