State Street Commission

Special Service Areas are local tax districts that fund expanded services and programs through a localized property tax levy. SSA-funded projects typically include but are not limited to: public way maintenance and beautification; district marketing and advertising; business retention/attraction, special events and promotional activities; auto and bike transit; enhanced security; façade improvements; and other commercial and economic development initiatives. The city of Chicago contracts with local non-profits, called Service Providers, to manage SSAs.