JNDC’s leadership and sustained advocacy has helped move a long-awaited 50th Ward fire station renovation into the City’s newly approved budget, marking a significant step forward for public safety in West Rogers Park.

Since 2019, JNDC has advocated for upgrading the ward’s small, century-old firehouse to accommodate a dedicated EMS vehicle—something the 50th Ward currently lacks. This need has been consistently raised by residents, first responders, and community organizations.

With Mayor Brandon Johnson choosing not to veto the City Council spending plan—and the budget now officially in effect—the City prioritized projects with existing state funding commitments. Thanks to years of advocacy, support from Alderman Debra Silverstein, and a strong partnership with Senator Ram Villivalam, there is now a clear path forward.

In 2021, Senator Villivalam secured a $3 million state commitment for fire station improvements, which was later increased to $5 million to account for rising construction costs. While delays at the City level had previously stalled progress, the current budget action has unlocked momentum. Alderman Silverstein and a coalition of City Council members are now working together toward implementation.

This moment reflects what sustained, collaborative neighborhood advocacy can achieve—and JNDC remains committed to seeing this critical investment through to completion for the benefit of the entire community.