Local Resident Reflects on Obama Presidential Center Construction
Chicago – A man who has lived on the South Side for 18 years, in close proximity to the newly opened Barack Obama Presidential Center, recently shared his experiences with FOX News Digital about the disruptions brought on by the lengthy construction project.
Akoma Amanze, a taxi driver residing in Jackson Park Terrace, a low-income housing community right across from the new campus, noted that the area has seen a surge of visitors—from celebrities to everyday individuals—clamoring to explore the 19.3-acre complex that includes a museum, library, gardens, and recreational spaces.
Over the weekend, as the influx of visitors continued, Amanze remarked that this sort of excitement and commotion isn’t exactly new to him. He expressed his admiration for President Obama and mentioned that while his experience living in Jackson Park Terrace has generally been positive, the construction has caused significant distress.
He described the ongoing project, which started back in 2021, as “very disturbing at times.” Despite his enthusiastic feelings toward Obama, he revealed that the noise and chaos have taken a toll on residents. He recalled, “My apartment flooded twice during the excavation. Twice. We had to throw away everything that was on the floor—boxes, papers, clothes.”
Amanze shared that he had to handle the water removal himself and clean up the dirt left behind. Unfortunately, he mentioned that neither the apartment management nor anyone from the Obama Center stepped forward to provide assistance with the aftermath of the flooding.
On top of that, he noted, “The drilling sounds were relentless at times. Sometimes it felt like you’d be rocked out of bed with the digging.” He further reflected on how a once-thriving community park, where families used to gather, has been replaced by the center. He reminisced, saying, “It was where everyone came together. My kids grew up playing there.”
Amanze fondly recalled how he would take his youngest child, who turns 14 today, to swing at the park whenever he was upset. “I’d put him on the swing, rock him until he calmed down, and then take him home.” Yet, even with the loss of the park, he remains optimistic.
“When something happens that you can’t control, you learn to adapt. I’ve accepted the situation. I’m not angry. In fact, I’m thrilled my brother Obama has created something significant in our neighborhood. It feels like I’m a part of history,” he concluded, capturing the complex emotions of progress and disruption.
