Hazel Crest Creative Arts Center Builds Momentum with September 27 Event
The Village of Hazel Crest will host another milestone event at the Creative Arts Center on September 27. The Blooming Arts Garden Hazel Crest gathering marks the fourth “placemaking event” for the once dormant space, since its unveiling in September 2023 as a cultural destination. In that short time, it has already become a hub for community engagement and artistic expression.
The September event comes as development continues toward the full buildout, according to the Southland Development Authority’s (SDA) Director of Municipal Economic Development, Nicholas Greifer. Greifer said the Phase 1 exterior construction is now complete. He also revealed that landscaping is taking root just as the Village has retained artist and branding expert Summer Coleman to help stage manage this latest celebration.
Bo Kemp, CEO of the Southland Development Authority stated, “SDA is excited to contribute to the “adaptive reuse” of a strategic site located right on the historic Dixie Highway Corridor, and has worked diligently to build the capital stack necessary to complete Phase 1 improvements. These Phase 1 investments are already paying “dividends” in terms of cultural expression for Southland artists, driving investment to a previously underinvested section of town, and setting the table for more improvements in Phase 2. Equally important, this investment sends a signal to small private investors in the area to reinvest nearby, creating a virtuous cycle of future investment.
This year’s program will feature live music performances by Afro-Soul artist Peter Jericho and R&B/Soul artist Nina Taylor. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the evening from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Activities will include live music and art, food and merchant vendors, raffles with prizes, and opportunities to explore creativity “in full bloom.”
Assistant Village Manager LaVern Murphy released this statement:
“Events like this are vital for Hazel Crest. They not only showcase the incredible talent and the possibilities our community can be with embracing the arts but also build a sense of unity and shared purpose. The Creative Arts Center is becoming a cornerstone for cultural expression and economic growth, and these early events are laying the foundation for a thriving arts ecosystem. Giving artists a space to be seen and heard is how we spark innovation and inspire future growth.”
Murphy added that the goal of these gatherings is to foster community engagement, celebrate local creativity, and maintain momentum as development progresses. Phase 2 construction is slated to begin in January 2026.
The Village is also inviting local artists to participate. Those interested can contact Murphy directly at lmurphy@villageofhazelcrest.com to secure a spot and showcase their work in front of the community.
About the Southland Development Authority
The Southland Development Authority, a not-for-profit economic development organization, is committed to driving equitable and sustainable economic growth in the south suburbs of Chicago. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and impactful direct investments, the SDA is building a vibrant, inclusive economy that drives wealth growth for individuals, businesses and municipalities. Combined with the benefits of the South Suburban Land Bank and the Monarch Fund, the SDA serves as a model for regional development.
