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massive land sale is underway in Chicago, with hundreds of vacant lots on the market in South and West side neighborhoods. The properties, some in poor condition, were listed for sale as part of bankruptcy proceedings involving a pair of property owners who amassed $15 million in unpaid fines. Community advocates see this as an opportunity to revitalize areas like Englewood and North Lawndale by putting the land into the hands of new owners who can develop it with homes, businesses, or affordable apartments.

    The sale includes over 800 lots totaling 83 acres, many zoned for single-family homes or large enough for apartments, retail, or light industry. Buyers can purchase individual parcels or larger combinations, and bids will be accepted until March 7. However, some community leaders worry that the properties could simply switch owners without being developed.

    The vacant land has been a problem in these neighborhoods for years, with many lots empty for over a decade. Some have been overrun by weeds, infested with rats, or collecting trash. City lawyers cracked down on the previous owners, sisters Suzie B. Wilson and Swedlana Dass, who assembled the portfolio through tax and scavenger sales.

    The bankruptcy sale will be used to pay off the sisters' debt, and city officials hope it will lead to development in these areas. However, small business advocates and affordable housing providers caution that resources are scarce and processes need to be streamlined for businesses to open or housing construction to begin.