Belmont Cragin

Belmont Cragin, eight miles northwest of the Loop, is a community built on commerce and industry. Railroads drew factories and workers to the area, while builders filled the housing needs with bungalows, Cape Cods, and two-flats. Shopping districts added to the commercial atmosphere. Belmont Cragin's overall population grew by more than 6 percent in the 1980s and 37 percent in the 1990s. The Hispanic population increased from 3,072 in 1980 to 16,846 in 1990. By the 2000 census the area was 65 percent Hispanic. Polish immigrants and businesses also arrived during these years. A number of young middle-class professionals joined blue-collar laborers in the area. The neighborhood experienced a drop in manufacturing employment and a decline in retail activity during the 1980s.

Properties that NSP has acquired, or are under contract, in Belmont Cragin.