The Chicago Fire Department vacated this early 20th century firehouse at South Hamlin and Ogden Avenues upon the completion of a new fire station at 399 West 16th Street. Sold in 2006 to a partnership between Lawndale Community Church and the House Covenant Church, and converted through pro bono design services from AAG Architects, the historic site reopened as the Firehouse Community Arts Center of Chicago, an expansion of a series of hip-hop services for young adults started in 2003 by Pastor Phil Jackson. The Firehouse now offers “multidisciplinary cultural arts programming, mentorship, leadership and workforce development” year-round, centered on the interruption and prevention of violence. The City of Chicago’s INVEST South/West initiative earmarks funds for new development in the area, between South Kedzie Avenue and South Pulaski Road along Ogden Avenue, and the nonprofit organization that offers programs at the Firehouse now has a second location at 5000 West Roosevelt Road.
