Chicago Considers Renaming Locations for Notable Residents

Aldermen in Chicago have proposed renaming efforts to honor two prominent figures: Pope Leo XIV and former President Barack Obama. These proposals involve changing the name of Northerly Island and a section of Wabash Avenue.

Pope Leo XIV Northerly Island

Alderman Raymond López has suggested renaming Northerly Island to “Pope Leo XIV Northerly Island.” Despite current regulations preventing public places from being named after living individuals, López believes an exception can be made, especially with Mayor Brandon Johnson considering a similar idea. López emphasizes making Northerly Island an educational site about Illinois’ notable Catholics.

Barack Hussein Obama Way

Alderman Brendan Reilly has proposed honorarily renaming part of Wabash Avenue downtown as “Barack Hussein Obama Way.” This proposal gained traction from an online petition with over 24,300 signatures aimed at renaming the section including Trump Tower. While the full renaming of Wabash Avenue presents logistical challenges due to costs associated with new signage and updates, Reilly sees the proposal as a straightforward solution.

“This is something I joked about years ago, now it seems more appropriate,” Reilly stated.

In 2016, the City Council removed an honorary “Trump Plaza” designation from a location near Trump’s hotel, which Reilly had advocated for. He now sees honoring Obama as a positive step forward. Previously, Alderman Lamont Robinson had suggested renaming Columbus Drive for Obama without success, and Reilly has not consulted with Obama on the current proposal.

The Obama Presidential Center will have its official opening ceremony in Jackson Park.