Loop stakeholders and friends,
Championing the tireless work of the vital industries that make the Loop unique is impossible without the support of your teams and organizations. We have much to celebrate -- Chicago being named Best Big City in the U.S. by Conde Nast Traveler for a historic seventh year in a row; record-breaking attendance at the award winning Sundays on State event series; and historic Chicago Loop Alliance membership. Chicago Loop Alliance also spent 2023 ensuring that the world knew what a gem the Loop remains, hosting the 2023 International Downtown Association conference with nearly 1,500 downtown place managers experiencing the splendor of Chicago. The Loop is a treasure trove of titans in finance and tech; arts and culture powerhouses; a hub of philanthropic, civic and government agencies; and the heart of transportation, education and tourism, and remains a beacon for downtowns across the world.
Aside from Chicago Loop Alliance’s own projects and initiatives, the Loop district hosted many record-breaking events like the first ever NASCAR street race and another great Lollapalooza music festival. Other new opportunities presented themselves with the election of two new Aldermen and a burgeoning relationship with the new Johnson mayoral administration.
To forecast and address a variety of factors impacting State Street, Chicago Loop Alliance partnered with the City of Chicago and Urban Land Institute Chicago to deliver a new plan for State Street, Elevate State, addressing the future of the corridor. Similarly, Chicago Loop Alliance conducted an analysis of the organization, developing a new five-year strategic plan by a professional consultancy. Throughout the process, Chicago Loop Alliance board, staff, members, and partners analyzed the impacts of the last several years on the organization, as well as strategically addressing the future of CLA through four key program areas. The organization’s guiding focus will be led by our new mission of leading the community by creating and supporting inclusive programs that attract people and investment to the Loop.
We continue to address the current challenges we face alongside downtowns all over the world each day, and with the support of our members and partners hope to gain positive forward momentum here in Chicago. On behalf of our Board of Directors and the State Street Commission, thank you for the support you have shown Chicago Loop Alliance.
Michael Edwards
President and CEO
Chicago Loop Alliance
