CHICAGO ~ Chicago's Englewood neighborhood has a new addition to its business community with the reopening of The Mat, a renovated laundromat located at 7152 S. Halsted St. Mayor Brandon Johnson, along with Alderman David Moore (17th) and the Chicago Department of Planning and Development (DPD), gathered today to celebrate the grand opening.

The project was made possible by a $250,000 Community Development Grant, which is part of Mayor Johnson's efforts to direct resources towards historically disinvested communities. "When a community lacks investment, it affects every aspect of residents' daily lives, including access to basic amenities in their own neighborhood," said Mayor Johnson. "Our administration is committed to changing that by directing public resources where they are most needed, filling gaps in services, supporting local businesses, and revitalizing vacant properties. The Mat is a prime example of this work happening right here in Englewood and I want to congratulate the new operators on their success."

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The Mat offers self-service laundry machines and professional cleaning services in a one-story commercial building that had been vacant for over ten years. The property was purchased in 2023 by William Jackson, who utilized the $250,000 grant to complete necessary upgrades such as a new roof and improvements to the HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems. The total project cost was approximately $340,000.

According to DPD Commissioner Ciere Boatright, Community Development Grants play a crucial role in turning innovative ideas into sustainable neighborhood improvements. "With limited traditional financing options available for projects like this, these grants are essential in promoting neighborhood growth and expanding economic opportunities for residents," said Boatright.

The Community Development Grant program provides funding for business projects that contribute to neighborhood development. Grants cover up to 75% of eligible expenses with a maximum amount of $250,000. Larger grants are subject to additional guidelines.

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Alderman David Moore expressed his excitement for the reopening of The Mat, stating that having a laundromat nearby makes a significant difference in the day-to-day lives of families. "For too long, this practical need has been missing in this part of Englewood," said Moore. "The Mat not only fulfills a need for our residents but also adds another local business to Halsted Street. I am thrilled to see these doors open and this service available to our community once again."

The Mat is just one of over a dozen recently completed or planned projects in Englewood that have utilized DPD funding, totaling over $20 million in project costs.

For more information on the Community Development Grant program, visit Chicago.gov/CDG. With continued efforts and investments like these, Mayor Johnson and his administration are working towards creating a more equitable and thriving Chicago for all its residents.

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