In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the development of a pedestrian plaza and transit stations on 38th Street, focusing on the integration of public transportation into the project. COO Anderson Kelleher explained that two transit stations are planned for the south leg of Chicago Avenue, specifically for Route 5 and the D Line. However, under the pedestrian plaza option, these stations would not be included due to the need for buses to navigate through the area, which is complicated by the existing traffic circle.

Council Member Osman raised concerns about the timeline for presenting the final layout of the project and whether it would require council approval. Officials indicated that the concept layout would be brought through the Community and Neighborhood Impact (CNI) committee, similar to previous projects. They emphasized the importance of securing council approval early to mitigate financial risks associated with potential budget reallocations.

The timeline for construction is ambitious, with plans to begin utility work after the fifth anniversary of George Floyd's murder this year, aiming for completion by 2027. However, delays in finalizing the layout could push construction back to 2026 or even later, extending the completion date to 2028 or 2029.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the historical significance of the site, with officials noting interest from state and federal entities regarding future memorials and developments. The discussions highlighted the project's potential impact on the community and the importance of timely decision-making to honor the site's legacy.