Chicago Public Media Will Launch Chicago.com Platform
The new digital site is scheduled to debut on October 12, 2026, in Evanston and four Chicago neighborhoods.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Civic Engagement
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Chicago Public Media will officially launch the Chicago.com platform on October 12, 2026. The pilot will focus on Evanston and four distinct Chicago neighborhoods.
Why it matters
The initiative aims to strengthen local information ecosystems by fostering digital connectivity. Evanston was chosen for its high level of civic engagement and demand for such tools.
Chicago.com utilizes the Roundabout software platform developed by the nonprofit firm New_Public. The system employs paid community stewards to moderate discussions.
The players
Chicago Public Media
This is the parent organization of WBEZ and the Chicago Sun-Times.
New_Public
This nonprofit tech firm developed the Roundabout platform used for the project.
Maddie Berger
She serves as the community steward for the Evanston site.
The details
The network will be overseen by local community stewards who manage interactions within the pilot sites. Prospective users in Illinois can currently sign up for a platform waitlist.
Timeline
October 12, 2026: The official scheduled launch date for Chicago.com.
Political Context
The Chicago.com launch follows the pattern set by the Roundabout platform pilot programs in Portland, Richmond, and Chattanooga. This project expands upon previous pilot efforts by bringing the established Roundabout software infrastructure to a new regional market.
Residents in Evanston and the chosen Chicago neighborhoods can currently sign up for the platform's waitlist to secure early access. The use of paid community stewards is intended to foster a moderated and constructive local digital environment.
The takeaway
The platform utilizes a structured approach to local digital moderation to distinguish itself from traditional social media networks. Residents can prepare for the upcoming launch by monitoring official updates from Chicago Public Media.
What happens next
Chicago.com is scheduled to launch on October 12, 2026.
Further reading
For more on efforts to strengthen local information networks, visit the Civic Engagement section.
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Will you sign up for the new local non-commercial social network launching in your area?
