Although Chicago is renowned for its stunning parks and abundant natural areas, including more than 8,800 acres of nature preserves, a recent study found that certain neighbourhoods had significant problems with cleanliness and littering.
Chicago is known as “urbs in horto” (Latin for “city in a garden”) and frequently emphasises its green areas as a source of pride.
But when it comes to complaints from locals, the city is actually dirtier than New York and San Francisco, according to recent data.
Based on complaints from locals, West Englewood, which is on the South Side of the city, has been named the dirtiest zip code in Chicago’s history.
- 19,714 complaints for every 100,000 residents
- The West Englewood neighbourhood
- Zip Code: [60636]
- Rate of poverty: around 36%
West Englewood has a high poverty rate, which is frequently associated with reduced resources for public space maintenance and restricted access to city services.
It’s possible that the residents of this area are dealing with a number of issues that make sanitary issues less important.
Background Information about the Data
The data indicates greater systemic problems in addition to specific areas of concern. Public complaints about unlawful dumping, poor infrastructure, and poor sanitation are more likely to occur in neighbourhoods with lower resources.
Read Also: Data Shows the Most Accident-prone Intersections in New York City
At the same time, Chicago keeps funding community beautification initiatives and greening projects all around the city. However, to close the gap in communities like West Englewood, more focused assistance could be required.
Did You Know?
Despite its challenges, Chicago continues to live up to its motto in many areas of the city, including some of the largest urban nature preserves in the United States.
