Special Service Areas 56
WHAT IS AN SSA?
Special Service Areas are local tax districts that fund expanded services and programs through a localized property tax levy within contiguous areas. The enhanced services and programs are in addition to those currently provided through the City.
Map provided by Chicago Cityscape
Bronzeville SSA #56
SSA 56 GENERAL BOUNDARIES
47th Street between St. Lawrence Ave. and State St.
MISSION STATEMENT
SSA #56 has the mission to stimulate and guide commercial district development, strengthen and foster the growth of local business through technical assistance and lead community marketing activities.
TAX LEVY BUDGET
The tax levy that supports SSA56 is currently $122,586 (2025).
ECONOMIC BENEFITS PROVIDED BY SSA 56
- Support services including public property beautification, such as landscaping of the planters and holiday decorations
- Maintenance – Servicing Bigbelly trash containers and sidewalk sweeping 3 days a week, currently contracted to Cleanslate services
- Area Wide District marketing and events – SSA 56 has created and distributed marketing collateral that promotes area businesses, including a food focused piece, banners on light poles. SSA 56 supports business networking events
- Business Resources and Support – Assist business owners with identifying resources and services to support and sustain operations
SSA MANAGEMENT
SSA 56 By-laws allow for up to a five-person Commission. The Commission is made up of eligible business owners, business representatives, property owners, and other appropriate stakeholders having met the City of Chicago eligibility requirements. Commissioners are recommended to the City of Chicago and are appointed by the Mayor for select terms.
QCDC is the Service Provider for SSA #56 as selected by the SSA Commissioners and under contract with the City of Chicago. QCDC conducts research, negotiates contracts, procures products and services for projects the commissioners identify as part of the annual program. QCDC also assists commissioners with applications, provides all administrative services, performs some of the services, and oversees all contracts.
SERVICES
- Public way maintenance and beautification
- District marketing and advertising
- Business retention and attraction
- Special events and promotional activities
- Security and façade improvements