Before Barack and Michelle Obama spent the last eight years living in The White House in Washington, D.C., the 44th U.S. President and First Lady called the Georgian Revival mansion at 5046 S. Greenwood Avenue in Kenwood home. Bought for $1.65 million in 2005, the red brick home has been under the supervision of the Secret Service ever since Obama took office, closing off the street and effectively turning it into a cul-de-sac that required permission to enter.

It's something that neighbors have simply gotten used to dealing with. Now that the Obamas are leaving office, however, that could mean that the street will be opening up once again and the Chicago neighborhood might become a serious tourist destination, much to the chagrin of those who call it home. 

Tour buses were said to drive the street before Obama took office and it was closed off in 2009. Some neighbors worry those days will return and with greater numbers. One resident told reporters that holidays such as Halloween bring out larger crowds than normal as people look for any opportunity to peek at the house and surroundings. 

If the Obamas do decide to remain in the house, that could stem the tide. The Secret Service will continue to protect the Obamas for life and would likely still require some forms of protection along the street. However, the Obamas haven't given many indications that they plan to return to their former home. The President said last year that the family would remain in Washington, D.C. at least until daughter Sasha finishes high school. One thing that could bring the family back to their Chicago roots is his presidential library, which will be built nearby in Jackson Park. 

Whatever happens, something tells us this affluent neighborhood will do just fine. It still boasts a storied Chicago history, a stunning collection of historic single-family homes, and some of the best schools in the city.

Sources:

Obama's Neighbors Worry President's Kenwood House Will Become Tourist Trap [DNAInfo]

Obama Neighbors Welcome 4 More Years of Increased Security [DNAInfo]