The final report of the Environmental Equity Investigation (EEI) was accepted by the Evanston City Council on Jan. 12, 2026 by unanimous vote. Climate Action Evanston and Environmental Justice Evanston played an active and critical role in initiating the year-long project and collaborating with the EEI project team.
The final report documents current disparities across Evanston neighborhoods in several areas: open spaces, parks and trees; streets and transportation (including air quality); housing; and community services (waste management, flooding, etc.). Disparities were clearly linked to historical racial discrimination and policy decisions that led to inequitable conditions. Action plans for each area outlines potential paths for remedying the disparities and preventing them in the future.
Work continues to implement these actions and ensure Evanston lives up to the promise outlined in the EEI final report.