FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Diana Martinez | Diana.Martinez@cityofchicago.org | (312) 597-1830
Clerk Valencia’s CityKey program now allows Chicagoans to apply online
The first-of-its-kind platform utilizes technology to increase government efficiency and access
CHICAGO- Clerk Anna Valencia announces the first-of-its-kind CityKey online platform is available for Chicagoans today. The online platform is the second phase of a two-phase approach to expand accessibility for the high-demand program, giving residents the opportunity to apply for a free CityKey from wherever they can access a device. The first phase was the launch of the appointment system, which went live in May.
“By building this new level of access for all Chicagoans, we ensure the CityKey program is not only efficient, but meets the high demand,” Valencia said. “We’re excited to offer an optional and innovative way for our residents to get their free CityKey ID and take advantage of all the great resources our city offers. This is an example of how technology can be helpful in linking communities to government.”
In collaboration with CityKey business partners and prominent Chicagoans, the video demonstrates the new online platform and highlights how Chicagoans can use their ID. It features Sweet Mandy B's, Momentum Coffee, Museum of Illusions Chicago, My Block, My Hood, My City Founder and CEO Jahmal Cole, The Stitch Gawd Artist Emma McKee, E3 Radio and The Qube Founder and CEO Anna DeShawn, Chicago Urban Historian Shermann "Dilla" Thomas, and 77 Flavors of Chicago’s Dario Durham and Sara Faddah.
Residents can submit their CityKey application by visiting www.getcitykey.com, and once their information is verified, they'll receive their CityKey through the mail. Applicants will need to upload the proper Proof of Identity and Proof of Residency documents along with a clear passport-size photo to be approved.
“We’re the first, or one of the first, in the entire country that is giving residents across the city this exclusively online component, which I think is absolutely tremendous, especially for individuals in our communities who are disabled, individuals who may lack access to the transportation that gets them to one of your various sites,” Alderman Matt Martin (47th Ward) said. “It’s a real game changer, something that I think positions us to be true leaders in this regard, not just in terms of other cities but other states as well.”
The information submitted is retained according to the City’s retention schedule and is only kept after the applicant acknowledges and completes the online application process. If applicants do not wish to have their data stored, they can still attend printing events using the appointment system, which will not retain any record.
CityKey is a free and optional government-issued 4-in-1 ID serving as a Ventra card, library and Chicago Rx Prescription Discount Card available to all Chicagoans and can be obtained online or at printing events. Visit our site to learn more at chicityclerk.com/citykey.
View the launch video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9hvdsGsAw0
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