Chicago Residents Concerned Over Housing Cost Increases as Obama Center Nears Completion

South Side Chicago residents worry about rising rent prices, property taxes with new Obama development

Obama Presidential Center on Chicago's South SidePhoto byScreen Capture/Youtube Video [Creator]

CHICAGO — With the Barack Obama Presidential Center set to open in 2026, residents of Chicago’s South Side are increasingly worried about potential hikes in housing costs. The center, which will include a museum, library, and educational facilities dedicated to former President Barack Obama, is sparking fears among the local population, particularly in the Woodlawn neighborhood, about the affordability of their homes.

Many residents have reported receiving notices of significant rent increases linked to the center’s completion. Pat Hightower, an 81-year-old local, shared her concerns with the Chicago Tribune, describing how long-term residents who have deep roots in the community are being displaced. Hightower recounted an instance where a neighbor’s rent was set to rise from $900 to $1,500, with the property owner citing the anticipated influx of higher-income residents once the center is operational.

The significance of the Obama Presidential Center to the South Side was highlighted during the 2021 groundbreaking ceremony by both Barack and Michelle Obama. Barack Obama spoke about finding his purpose in Chicago, while Michelle Obama expressed her pride in her South Side origins.

In response to these concerns, Hightower and other community members have formed the Community Benefits Agreement coalition. This group met with Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson in June, urging him to advocate for renter and homeowner protections in Woodlawn and neighboring areas. Although Mayor Johnson has shown support and proposed a multimillion-dollar package of new programs, the initiative has been stalled in the City Council’s Housing Committee since October 2023.

At the June meeting, Hightower pressed Mayor Johnson with direct questions, seeking a commitment to protecting the South Shore neighborhoods, which have some of the highest eviction rates in Chicago. Hightower emphasized the urgent need for legislation to prevent further displacement of community members.

Alderman Desmon Yancy supports the coalition’s proposal, viewing it as a critical fight for the future of South Shore. He pointed out that the median income in the area is around $2,000 per month, while the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,200, highlighting the financial strain on residents. Yancy criticized fellow aldermen, such as Greg Mitchell and Michelle Harris, for not backing the proposal, arguing that they underestimate the housing burden faced by many.

Yancy’s comments reflect the broader implications of the Obama Center's development. The discussion around affordable housing and displacement touches on deeper issues of community preservation and economic justice. As the opening date for the Obama Presidential Center draws nearer, the debate over housing affordability and the future of South Side neighborhoods remains a pressing issue for residents and city officials alike.