Chicago City Council passed an amendment to Municipal Code Section 4-60-022 (Liquor Dealers), modifying liquor license permissions across several commercial corridors. The ordinance allows new liquor licenses along specific segments of N Ashland Ave, W Division St, and N Western Ave, while simultaneously prohibiting additional licenses on other stretches of N Ashland Ave, N Western Ave, W Armitage Ave, W Division St, and N Milwaukee Ave. Sponsored by Alderman Daniel La Spata, the action reflects nuanced planning considerations to encourage or restrict alcohol-serving establishments in targeted areas to support neighborhood goals related to business development, public safety, and quality of life.
The amendment tailors liquor licensing to evolving neighborhood needs, promoting commercial vibrancy in some areas while reinforcing restrictions in others. It highlights the City's strategic approach to corridor-level land use planning and economic development.