Pat Dowell's Bio

Pat Dowell’s Bio

Pat Dowell, Alderman of the 3rd Ward, was a significant catalyst for the rebirth of the historic Bronzeville community that occurred in the 1990’s. She has an extensive background in urban planning and community development and was one of the primary architects of the Bronzeville Development Plan.

Since being elected in 2007, Alderman Dowell’s work has been centered on community engagement and community-based development that is rooted in transparency and celebrates the area’s rich cultural history. Along with attending CAPS meetings and hosting numerous town hall meetings and other events, she has worked hard to create an accessible ward office that truly serves the people.

This type of strong leadership has resulted in initiatives that benefit all who live, work, and play in the Third Ward by promoting public input, openness, and accountability. Alderman Dowell has passed through the City Council, significant pieces of legislation that continue to bring needed resources, jobs, services and infrastructure improvements to our schools, parks, and residents. Recently, Mayor Rahm Emanuel tapped her to serve on the City-County joint Collaboration Committee to identify opportunities in which the County and City of Chicago can work together to deliver quality services to residents in a more efficient and cost effective manner.

Ms. Dowell has a B.A. degree in Developmental Psychology from the University of Rochester and a Masters Degree in Social Service Administration from the University of Chicago. In the City Council, Alderman Dowell is Vice Chair of the Housing and Real Estate Committee and a member of the Aviation, Budget and Government Operations, Rules and Ethics, Education and Child Development, Finance, Health and Environmental Protection, and Transportation and Public Way Committees.