Man with a Plan: CUPPA Grad has a Vision for his Garfield Ridge Community
Introduction
As cars speed through Garfield Ridge on Archer Avenue, recent UIC graduate Danny Villalobos knows it can be better.
“That’s why we need to plan,” he says.
He’s referring to a detailed, comprehensive community plan for Garfield Ridge, one of Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods. The map of ideas for the area’s future — including how to make Archer Avenue a safer, more inviting destination for businesses and consumers — is a passion project for him, in addition to his full-time job as an urban planner.
Villalobos is quick to point out, however, that the plan is not just his vision for the community of about 35,000 on the city’s far southwest side.
“It’s informed by how the people who live and work here, just like me, see the area over the next 25 years or so,” he said. “Residents, community groups and businesses already know what works and what needs to change.
“This plan wouldn’t have become a reality without them — or UIC.”