Pilsen gets state historical landmark status

February 27, 2006 (WLS) -- Rich in Hispanic heritage, part of Pilsen will be a state historical landmark district. Pilsen, located on the city's South Side, is one of Chicago's oldest neighborhoods.

Fifteen properties in Illinois were listed in the national register of historic places in February by the National Park Services. The designation places them on the nation's most prestigious list of places with historical significance. The Pilsen district, often called the Heart of Chicago, is the largest area designated in the U.S. in terms of the number of eligible buildings.

The Pilsen historic district represents a distinct neighborhood of residences, churches, meeting halls, schools, commercial and industrial buildings in a clearly defined area on Chicago's South Side.

"Mostly residential. But also commercial, industrial. And what it means is that people who are property owners in this community now have another strategy for staying in this community," said Ald. Danny Solis, 25th Ward.

The landmark status will enable over 4,000 properties to take part in the Illinois' Property Tax Assessment Freeze Program for property owners who invest in their homes.

"By investing 25% of what the county assesses your property to be, you can get eight years of a tax-freeze on your property taxes and four years extension," said Ald. Solis.

Cecilia Gonzalez purchased her Georgian style home on the 1900-block of Ashland Avenue in the seventies for $32,000. It is now worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. The landmark status now means she can get a tax break, fix her home and stay in Pilsen.

"I've done repairs throughout the years. It's minor, here and there. This way I can get some money to do major plumbing repairs and electrical," said Cecilia Gonzalez, Pilsen resident.

"If you are a resident and live on historic property, this is tremendous. You'll be able to do improvements to your property and forego the normal property tax increases that you normally would have," said Dave Betlejewski, 18th St. Development Corporation.

Pilsen reflects Chicago's early bohemian immigration and settlement. In the twentieth century, the area transitioned into a Mexican American neighborhood. Solis says the landmark status is a real boost to the community

"I think it's going to be great for our economy and for the people living here," said Solis.

On April 1 there will be a workshop at Christo Rey School for anyone in Pilsen who wants to learn more about the landmark status, the tax freeze and what it means. Also, lending institutions will be on hand along with builders and architects and stores to help residents improve their property.

You can see the ABC7 report by clicking on the video icon above.  You will need Windows Media Player 9 or higher to view this video. You can get it FREE by clicking here. NOTE: Video clips will only be available for 5-days from the date they were created. ALSO: Video clips will play in a separate window on Mac OS X machines, you may also see a video help screen.

Get more News »

• Email
• Print
• Report a typo
•