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 During the days of the steel mills, industry shaped economic activity and local business fit into daily lives of individuals under the umbrella of the mills.
- Small business now acts as the main vein of economic independence within the communities and continue to play an important role in downtown districts and community life.
- Common local businesses in the region include restaurants, bars, bakeries, beauty salons and small groceries.
- Although they do provide employment for some residents, and are keeping downtown districts vibrant, they have not replaced the Steel Mills in terms of regional economic sustainability. According to Census 2000, the majority of residents in the Chicago community areas we studied do not work in their Community Area, and on average have a commute of nearly 40 minutes. The average Indiana commute to work is about 25 minutes.
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