IL HR0352

The Chicago Park District Board of Commissioners approved a 50% increase in adult admission fees (from $12 to $18) and a 71% increase in senior and student fees (from $7 to $12) at the Art Institute of Chicago, effective May 23, 2009.

A family of four with two student children over twelve would see admission costs increase from $38 to $60 after the fee increase takes effect.

The Art Institute received $6.7 million in funding from the Chicago Park District in 2008, making it directly subsidized by Chicago taxpayers.

Unlike the Museum of Science and Industry, Field Museum of Natural History, and Shedd Aquarium, the Art Institute does not offer reduced admission fees for Chicago residents.

The resolution urges the Chicago Park District Board of Commissioners to repeal the fee increase and to order the Art Institute to implement a reduced admission fee for Chicago residents.