Participatory Budgeting

Cast your ballot for the 2026 Participatory Budgeting until February 11th. You’re eligible to vote if you:

✅ are 14 years or older

✅ live in the 47th Ward

✅ OR go to school in 47th Ward

To vote, please fill out our short registration form. Once we verify that you qualify to vote, you will receive an email with a link to your ballot.

What is participatory budgeting? Every year, our office allocates up to $200,000 or two projects to infrastructure projects selected by the community. Initial project ideas are identified and workshopped by 47th Ward Youth Council members. In the past, residents have funded projects like new murals, bike lanes, water fountains, tree plantings, pickleball courts and more. You can view a full list of previous projects here.

What’s on the Ballot

Flashing PEdestrian Signal — Western and Byron ($100k)

This item would fund the installation of Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacons at the intersection of Byron and Western.

The Youth Council has flagged this crossing as unsafe due to high vehicle speeds and limited visibility near two high schools and Bell Elementary.

Accessibility Improvements — Welles Park ($100k)

This item would fund the purchase and installation of inclusive and ADA-accessible improvements at Welles Park. 

Families and disability advocates have noted that the current playground layout limits access for children with disabilities.

If approved, our office would work with the Park to finalize plans. Potential improvements may include installing accessible playground equipment or incorporating rubber surfacing to ensure smooth mobility access throughout the play area.

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