Two prominent Chicago figures may receive special recognition through new ordinances proposed by city aldermen. The proposals involve renaming Northerly Island after Pope Leo XIV and designating part of Wabash Avenue in front of Trump Tower as ‘Barack Hussein Obama Way.’
These initiatives face a significant hurdle. Current city and park district regulations prohibit naming streets and parks after living individuals. Supporters of the proposals believe exceptions can be made for such high-profile figures.
Pope Leo XIV’s Proposed Island Tribute
Alderperson Raymond López introduced the idea to rename Northerly Island in honor of Pope Leo XIV. He explained that this proposal aligns with Mayor Brandon Johnson’s previous suggestion to name a street after the pope. López aims to expand this vision.
‘I think the best thing that we could do is to put Pope Leo in the center of the city of Chicago, resurrect the use of Northerly Island,’ López stated. ‘Use it as a tool to educate people about Illinois’ most famous Catholic.’
Barack Obama Way and Its Implications
Alderperson Brendan Reilly’s proposal suggests renaming a part of Wabash Avenue as ‘Barack Hussein Obama Way.’ This proposal is largely inspired by an online petition with 24,301 signatures supporting the renaming of the road near Trump Tower.
Reilly mentioned that officially renaming the entire Wabash Avenue would involve substantial costs due to updates required for road signs, GPS systems, and maps. However, his proposal includes a clause to bypass the rule that streets can only be named for deceased individuals.
‘The goal is to make a statement that, not only did we remove the honorary street designation for Donald Trump years ago… we think it better to honor Barack Obama,’ Reilly said.
In 2024, an attempt to rename Columbus Drive after Obama met resistance and did not proceed. Reilly has not yet discussed the current proposal with Obama or his team. The Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park is also nearing its official opening, adding context to the timing of this proposal.