January 2006–present
Sanctuary improvements including installation of new pews, flooring and sound system are underway.

December 2005
“A Light in the City: Sharing God’s Grace,” the Capital Campaign supporting Project Light, receives an extraordinary gift of $5 million from Fourth Church members Ken and Anne Griffin in honor of Mr. Griffin’s grandparents, Genevieve and Wayne Gratz.

May – October 2005
Chicago Avenue Community Garden marks its second season with increased programming and activities for children and a growing group of participants from the neighborhood.

January 2005
Chicago Avenue Community Garden wins prestigious Greencorps Chicago grant.

November 2004
Physical improvements to Michigan Avenue site continue with Manse breakthrough from the first floor of the Parish House, making the ground level of the Manse handicap accessible and available for church programming.

September 29, 2004
Planned Development application filed with the City of Chicago

August 2004
Presbytery of Chicago approves Joint Development Proposal and sale of air rights

June 2004
Congregation approves Joint Development Proposal and sale of air rights

May 2004
Chicago Avenue Community Garden opens for its inaugural season; Cabrini residents and church members grow vegetables and flowers in 38 plots.

December 2003
The church’s new exterior lighting is unveiled with an illumination celebration.

November 2003
Requests for proposals sent out to qualified developers

September 2003– Present
Neighborhood outreach extended to individuals and area organizations affected by the possible joint development; presentations made to the city

September 2003– May 2004
Proposal developed involving significant investment by both Fourth Presbyterian Church and development partners

September 2003
“A Light in the City: Sharing God’s Grace,” the Capital Campaign for Fourth Presbyterian Church launched with congregation

September 2003
Edward R. James Partners and OPUS North Corporation selected as development partners and exclusive negotiations begun to create a proposal for consideration by the congregation

May 2003
Eight preliminary proposals from qualified development partners reviewed; three finalists selected

April 2003
Capital Campaign Leadership assembled

July 2002–Present
Well-respected advisers retained, including real estate consultant U.S. Equities, architects Perkins & Will, transactional counsel from Piper Rudnick, and zoning counsel Jack Guthman

July 2002
Air Rights Team of Fourth Presbyterian Church members appointed and charged with exploring the feasibility of selling air rights as a possible funding strategy for Project Light

June 2002
Chicago Avenue property acquired

June 2002
Project Light vision approved by the congregation

March, 2001
Project Light Leadership Team named