Uneven Spatial Development in Neoliberal Chicago

Overall place-based public expenditure in Chicago has followed patterns of neoliberal spatial selectivity, where business and economic development is prioritized, primarily in and around the central business district or high income residential areas. This prioritization occurs at the expense of social benefits or democratically redistributive policies to help those in need. Tax Increment Financing (TIF) in particular has displayed the same patterns and has been known for egregious abuses. At the behest of critics, the City evaluated its use of TIF with a 2011 reform panel. However, afterwards no noticeable change was realized and TIF use continues within the neoliberal urban entrepreneurialist framework, instead of as a tool to help underserved areas.