SSA #1-2015 FAQs
Your guide to how State Street’s Special Service Area works.
Answers on the most frequently asked questions about our special service area.
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. See a full list of Chicago’s SSA providers.
SSA #1-2015 includes property on both sides of State Street between Wacker Drive to the north and Congress Parkway to the south. View a map of the SSA#1-2015 boundaries.
Services funded by SSA#1-2015 include a Clean Team responsible for providing sidewalk litter, graffiti, and snow removal; a Street Team that manages panhandling, connects the homeless to needed services, and gives pedestrians directions; seasonal landscaping; infrastructure maintenance, including painting, caulking, and sidewalk power washing and repairs; research, including economic and education studies to attract investment; and destination marketing to attract media attention, tourism, and economic development.
With federal, state, and city funding becoming increasingly scarce, SSAs guarantee a consistent level of management for a district, ensuring that they remain competitive and high-performing. 100% of the collected tax revenue is devoted to maintaining and improving the designated area.
Special Service Area#1-2015 is under the guidance of the State Street Commission, a body of public and private officials who oversee the allocation of funding within the service area. Commissioners are recommended by the commission and/or SSA Advisory Committee and appointed by the Mayor with aldermanic support.
The budget for the SSA is managed and approved on an annual basis by the State Street Commission. The SSA revenue is collected by Cook County in its regular property tax collection process.
The City of Chicago contracts with local non-profit organizations to manage SSAs. For SSA#1-2015, Chicago Loop Alliance is the sole service provider for the SSA as designated by the city.
About SSA #1-2015
Chicago Loop Alliance is contracted by the City of Chicago as the sole service provider for State Street Special Service Area #1-2015.
State Street Commission
Special Service Area #1-2015 is under the guidance of the State Street Commission, a body of public and private officials appointed to oversee the allocation of funding within the service area.
Chicago Loop Ambassadors
Chicago Loop Ambassadors provide enhanced hospitality services, foster a consistent pedestrian experience and keep State Street safe, clean, and beautiful seven days a week.