Downtown TIF District
Downtown West Chicago from Route 59 through the historic downtown on Main Street and Washington Street was designated as a TIF District in 1990 to encourage downtown revitalization. TIF funds were used to construct a new streetscape with decorative lighting and brick sidewalks. The City also has several programs in place to assist with redevelopment in the area, including a façade fund program, which provides matching grants to property owners who make improvements to their properties. Since the façade program was initiated, the City has also worked with property owners on new construction projects including a dental office, condominium building and retail center.
TIF funds also provide businesses within the district with tools and support to grow and thrive. They are used to coordinate and subsidize a cooperative advertising program that touted the district’s attributes and mix of businesses and brought greater awareness and appreciation for local business. They also fund special events, including the annual Blooming Fest, which markets downtown as a compelling destination for shopping, dining and cultural pursuits.
Downtown TIF District Map – .pdf
North Avenue and Route 59 TIF District
Another successful use of the creation of a TIF District is the Mosaic Crossing Shopping Center at the northeast corner of North Avenue and Route 59. Due to decreasing tax revenues and a high vacancy rate within the shopping center, the City recognized the need to spark revitalization in this important quadrant. Since its adoption, the City has worked with the existing property owners on individual improvements and redevelopment. New monument signs for the center were erected in 2012 and Old Time Pottery opened a new retail home goods store in the former grocery store location in the summer of 2013. Additional future improvements will also be planned to further enhance this prominent commercial corridor.
