The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) is taking steps toward transforming an abandoned railway into what’s known as El Paseo Trail in Pilsen, reigniting a years-old discussion about the fear of further displacement for the predominantly Mexican American neighborhood.

CDOT recently hosted a community engagement meeting to gather residents’ input on repurposing the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) railway from West 16th and South Sangamon streets to West Cermak Road and South Laflin Street, near Benito Juarez High School. Officials emphasized that plans remain in early stages, with a final framework not expected until 2026.

The trail is envisioned as a community resource for recreation and connectivity, but the project is facing skepticism from some residents and experts who fear it could accelerate gentrification. More than 10,000 residents have been pushed out of Pilsen in the past 15 years, according to DePaul University professor Winifred Curran, who studies the effect of gentrification on the urban landscape.

“Once people are displaced, it’s much harder to get them to come back than it is to prevent that displacement in the first place,” Curran said. “We need to do it in partnership with very active policies around preserving affordable housing and creating more affordable housing.”

The concept for El Paseo was first introduced in 2016 under Mayor Rahm Emanuel but was stalled in 2022 due to resident concerns and parallels to the 606 Trail, where development in nearby neighborhoods led to sharp increases in property values and rents. CDOT acknowledged these concerns in a statement, noting that the project would include “guardrails to curb forces of gentrification and displacement.”

David Herrera, a former aldermanic candidate and supporter of the trail, believes El Paseo could enhance the community by bringing more business and entertainment.

“There’s a net benefit here, a net gain.” Herrera said.

The railway remains under the ownership of BNSF, and negotiations for the land are ongoing with the city.

Claudia Galeno-Sanchez of Women for Green Spaces emphasized the need for more greenery in the area.

“There is no space for gardens,” said Galeno-Sanchez, who has a sanctuary for monarch butterflies at her home. “I’m pro-green spaces, pro-monarch butterflies, but I’m also concerned about the families, especially the families with children.”

Note: This story has been updated to correct the name of Claudia Galeno-Sanchez.