In its ongoing commitment to downtown revitalization, the City has launched a new program designed to incentivize private investment, attract businesses, and energize the heart of West Chicago. In the spring of 2024, the City’s Economic Development Commission began shaping the Downtown Investment Program to align the City’s goals focused on activating the downtown outlined in the Economic Development Plan, Strategic Plan, and Comprehensive Plan. This new program combines physical property improvements incentives from the former Facade Improvement Program and the Retail and Restaurant Grant Program into a single grant offering. 

Details of the Program are available in both English and Spanish, on the City’s website. 

Program Purpose  

The Downtown Investment Program builds upon ongoing revitalization efforts by supporting the preservation, modernization, and enhancement of the commercial core through reimbursement grants. By supporting property improvements, the City aims to increase property values, strengthen the local economy, and create a more appealing downtown for businesses, residents, and visitors.  

Downtown Investment Program Overview  

Designed with simplicity and impact in mind, the Downtown Investment Program offers key features to help property and business owners make meaningful improvements: 

• Expanded Project Scope: The program encourages larger-scale interior and exterior renovations while also supporting smaller, maintenance-focused projects, making it accessible for more improvements. 

• Increased Funding: Grant awards for eligible improvements have been significantly increased, from $30,000 to a maximum of $75,000, enabling more impactful investment in downtown properties. 

• Support for Historic Preservation: New funding, not included in previous programs, offers grants of up to $100,000 for projects that preserve historically significant or landmarked buildings, helping maintain West Chicago's character while enabling modern improvements. 

• Faster Approvals for Smaller Projects: Eligible smaller projects (up to $5,000) benefit from an expedited approval process that does not require City Council approval, allowing work to begin sooner. 

Additionally, the City is compiling a list of local contractors ready to assist program participants, simplifying the process and helping property owners connect with contractors to get started. Contractors interested in being included on this list can contact Kelley Chrisse at (630) 818-3331 or email kchrisse@westchicago.org. 

Program Eligibility   

The Downtown Investment Program is available to commercial and mixed-use properties within the Downtown TIF District. Grants provide reimbursements for eligible interior and exterior improvements that enhance property value, preserve historic integrity, and improve the overall downtown environment. Streetscape enhancements and design fees related to projects are also eligible for reimbursement.  

Program Funding & Budget  

The program became effective on January 1, 2025, with an initial budget of $125,000. Additional funding may be made available if demand exceeds the budget. Initially funded through the General Fund, future funding for this program is intended to come from the Downtown TIF Fund. 

How to Apply  

Interested applicants are encouraged to schedule a pre-application meeting with City staff to explore how the program can benefit their project. By starting the conversation early, property owners can ensure that their proposed improvements align with the program’s goals and eligibility requirements.  

To schedule a meeting, please call Kelley Chrisse at (630) 818-3331 or email kchrisse@westchicago.org.