Chicago's West Side: A Tale of Two Neighborhoods

Just five miles from the Loop, where life expectancy is a high 87.3 years, neighborhoods like West Garfield Park see residents living on average 20 years less. This gap, driven by factors like crime, drug use, and lack of resources, has persisted for decades.

Systemic Issues at the Root

Local leaders and community members point to systemic issues as the root cause. Pastor Marshall Hatch of New Mountain Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church argues that isolation and segregation from resources have played a significant role. He notes that few businesses, like grocery stores or fitness centers, have thrived in the area, leaving residents without essential services.

Acknowledging the Problem

Mayor Brandon Johnson acknowledges the problem, stating that the gap has persisted due to a lack of focus on neighborhoods like West Garfield Park. He emphasizes the need for investment in education, healthcare, and housing, along with efforts to lower crime rates.

Lack of Investment

Dr. David Ansell, senior vice president for community health equity at Rush University Medical Center, highlights the lack of investment in the area. He notes that the construction of a new wellness center is a step in the right direction, but it's long overdue. Ansell points out that the neighborhood was once a thriving shopping district, but it has struggled to recover since the 1960s.

A Government Problem

Hatch believes that the obstacles facing West Garfield Park are a government problem. He argues that the city cannot be healthy and whole if it continues to neglect certain neighborhoods. He emphasizes that the safety and well-being of all residents are interconnected.