As we pass the first anniversary of Chicago's ambitious Cut the Tape initiative, LBBA Architects' Principal Trish Girdwood continues to play a pivotal role in the city's new task force. Selected from several hundred candidates, she serves as one of five architects in this dynamic group that is transforming urban development in Chicago by reducing inefficiencies and encouraging interdepartmental communication.

April 2024 marked a milestone when Mayor Brandon Johnson's administration unveiled the comprehensive Cut the Tape Report—a bold roadmap featuring over 100 strategic actions. These measures aim to streamline administrative processes, accelerate affordable housing creation, and reinvigorate business development throughout the city. By reducing project delays and enhancing interactions with City processes, the initiative aims to reshape Chicago's urban landscape.

The task force driving this transformation brings together seasoned professionals from housing and real estate development. Trish contributes her invaluable expertise—over two decades of experience in affordable and supportive housing projects, coupled with specialized knowledge in construction detailing, accessibility and sustainable design. 

"Being a part of Cut the Tape has allowed me to propose solutions to reduce delays, lower costs, and open doors for more equitable development," says Girdwood. "I have found it to be a powerful intersection of policy and practice."

Read what the City has to say about its impact so far: One Year of Impact – ARO Reform in Action