Aldermen from Chicago’s South Side are welcoming Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s new plans for development in their neighbourhoods. 

Last night, the mayor announced new plans to improve several South Side transit services, extending bus routes like the number 4 and 71 buses farther south. 

Emanuel also named Andrea Zopp as the city’s new Chief Neighborhood Officer.

Alderman Carrie Austin (34) says development in her ward has been a long time coming. 

“They forgot about us,” Austin said. “There’s been a lot of money that has circulated in the City of Chicago. It just didn’t circulate to the far south.” 

Alderman Toni Foulkes (16) says she’s glad to see investment, even if it’s long overdue. 

“I’ve lived in West Englewood for 46 years of my life, since I was 7,” Foulkes said. “I don’t care when it starts as long as it starts.”