If you pay close attention while strolling through Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood, you’ll notice that the surroundings tell a story. The new retail and residential developments on every corner, the coffee shops up and down the major streets, and The 606 park that runs through the neighborhood are beacons of both progress and gentrification. Below, take a photo tour of some of the new hotspots and old standbys discussed in the summer 2016 DePaul Magazine feature “The Road to Gentrification.”
John Mourikes is co-owner of Foodsmart, a Logan Square grocery store, which has been part of the community for more than 20 years. Mourikes has observed the slow gentrification of the area through the requests of his customers. He has added organic produce next to the nonorganic versions, stocks local bakery products alongside Hostess and Wonder Bread, and sells not only Coke products but also kombucha teas. Photo credit: Megan E. Doherty
The 606 is enjoyed by Logan Square residents and the larger Chicago community. Although the much-needed green space has greatly improved the quality of life in the area, it has also hastened the gentrification that was already underway. Photo credit: Megan E. Doherty
Murals on some of the Latin United Community Housing Association residential buildings allude to the story of its tenants. Photo credit: Megan E. Doherty
This mural illustrates the Hispanic community’s experiences with housing discrimination in Logan Square and surrounding communities. Photo credit: Megan E. Doherty
![The coffeehouse Ipsento is located just off of the Western blue line stop. The eclectic spot opened in 2006 and [will open a second location right by The 606 in summer 2016.] Photo credit: Megan E. Doherty](https://depaulmagazinetest2.files.wordpress.com/2016/06/med_2384.jpg?w=470&h=311)
The coffeehouse Ipsento is located just off of the Western blue line stop. This eclectic spot opened in 2006; a second location right by The 606 opened this summer. Photo credit: Megan E. Doherty
Ipsento’s front window reflects the new retail development across the street. Photo credit: Megan E. Doherty
BlackCAT1 bike shop is just off The 606 California Avenue access ramp. Co-owners Russell Boehringer and Josh Korby offer bike repair classes and other community activities. They hope to serve as a unifier for the whole community. Photo credit: Megan E. Doherty
Read more about Logan Square in the summer 2016 issue of DePaul Magazine. >>
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