CN-Funded “America in Bloom” Grant Wraps Phase I of Hazel Crest Creative Arts Center
Hazel Crest, IL – The transformation of Hazel Crest Proper is starting to become visible from the street. Final touches are now complete on the exterior of the future Hazel Crest Creative Arts Center. This milestone is due in large part to a CN-funded “America in Bloom” grant that funded significant landscaping improvements.
The Dixie Highway, where this is located, used to be the commercial spine of the village. But in recent years, it’s experienced disinvestment and an uptick in commercial vacancies. Now, the story is changing. It’s one step closer to becoming a hub for creative life.
The work completes Phase I of the larger redevelopment project that included structural and signage upgrades. The grant was secured in partnership with the Southland Development Authority (SDA) serving as the Village’s lead grant writer and implementation partner. As Nicholas Greifer, the SDA’s Director of Municipal Economic Development, explained: “We scouted out the funding opportunity, wrote the grant, and supported the Village in implementing it.”
Greifer pointed out that the implementation phase is typically where projects stall. “Once you get the grant, there’s pressure to deliver. That’s where we support the Village. Not just in writing and locating, but in making sure something real gets built.”
“The CN grant allowed us to create energy and activity in a part of Hazel Crest that had been overlooked for too long,” said Village Manager Dante Sawyer. “It’s already generating interest not just from artists, but from people who want to invest and bring life back to the area.”
The now-completed Phase I sets the stage for Phase II. On the docket? A full interior overhaul. An overhaul that will make the building safe, functional, and vibrant. Another step completed toward reawakening Hazel Crest’s historic center.
About the Southland Development Authority (SDA)
The Southland Development Authority is a nonprofit business organization launched in 2019 by business, civic, and political leaders from around the Southland who recognize the potential of the region’s people, businesses, and real estate. Our mission is to bring the resources and capacity needed to achieve transformative, inclusive economic growth for the south suburbs with a focus on investments in the Southland’s communities, industry, housing, and workforce.
