Chicago’s rough streets get all the press. Where do you find the least crime in the city? It’s not in the richest part of town—just the place the most police live. Read more
Economic mobility is lower in Chicago than in most major American city; lower in the cotton belt than almost everywhere in America; and they share more economic history than you might think. Read more
The CTA retires its 2200 El cars today, designed by SOM in 1969 in the International Style of the time. Will the next series reinvent the wheel or, like previous generations, stick closely to its once-groundbreaking design? Read more
New development in Chicago's distressed neighborhoods can be a change for the area. But a new study shows that people want housing to match its surroundings. Read more
It began early in the Bush administration and has continued consistently since, as the boom economy of the mid-2000s briefly and barely improved unemployment and median income. Read more
The city hasn't paid what it's supposed to. The state hasn't paid what it said it would try to. And a declining city payroll means increased city pensions. We're all going to have to start paying for it soon. Read more
