===== PDF PAGE 50 =====

CITY OF WEST CHICAGO
CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
ITEM TITLE:
2027-2029 Economic Development
Work Plan
AGENDA ITEM NUMBER:
   _____7.E._____
COMMITTEE AGENDA DATE: N/A
COUNCIL AGENDA DATE:    September 8, 2026
STAFF REVIEW: Kelley Chrisse, AICP, CEcD SIGNATURE  __________________________
ITEM SUMMARY:
The Economic Development Commission (EDC) is charged with making recommendations to the
City Council regarding opportunities to foster an environment in which commercial, cultural, and
community enterprises can flourish in West Chicago. In 2025, the EDC drafted the City's first multi-
year Economic Development Work Plan to establish priorities for economic development activities,
inform annual budget recommendations and resource allocation, and provide a framework for coor-
dinating initiatives and resources over a three-year period.
The Work Plan was established with the expectation that it would be reviewed annually to reflect im-
plementation experience, changing conditions, and emerging opportunities. The current 2026–2028
Work Plan was reviewed during the first half of 2026, resulting in adjustments to project sequencing
and the identification of several new or expanded initiatives for consideration in the next three-year
planning period.
EDC RECOMMENDATION:
The EDC-recommended Work Plan carries forward ongoing economic development activities while
establishing milestones for initiatives anticipated over the next three years. The plan includes contin-
ued emphasis on downtown redevelopment, business attraction and retention, housing develop-
ment, infrastructure, regulatory modernization, workforce development, community partnerships, and
improved communication with the business community.
The recommended Work Plan also incorporates several significant new or expanded projects and
initiatives:
•
West Washington Street Redevelopment – Complete the Concept Plan for the West Wash-
ington Street redevelopment site, prepare City-owned properties for development, and evalu-
ate zoning changes to increase redevelopment opportunities downtown.
•
Indoor Marketplace – Design an indoor marketplace in 2027 within the downtown to provide
space supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses with construction of the facility antici-
pated in 2028. Grant funding has been sought for this initiative.
•
Downtown Futsal Fields – Design futsal fields on the West Washington Street site in 2027,
followed by construction in 2028. The project is contingent upon approval of a text amendment
allowing athletic fields as a Special Use downtown and subsequent Special Use approval for
the site.
•
Grand Lake Boulevard / Elliott Avenue Land Use Study – Study the feasibility of transition-
ing the area from industrial to residential or mixed-use as a potential strategy for eliminating
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the truck route through downtown. The study would consider floodplain constraints, developa-
bility, compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods, transition of existing industrial properties,
and opportunities to accommodate future industrial growth in more appropriate locations.
•
City Rebranding – Undertake a City rebranding initiative in coordination with the launch of the
new City website.
•
Community-Wide Survey and Expanded Engagement – Implement a community-wide sur-
vey and expand opportunities for ongoing public input through surveys, polls, and a future
public engagement platform.
•
Downtown Construction Business Support – Provide ongoing outreach to downtown busi-
nesses and property owners during construction of the Downtown Modernization & Beautifica-
tion Project and evaluate opportunities to assist businesses with increased advertising efforts
during construction.
•
Expanded Business Development Resources – Increase connections between small busi-
nesses and capital resources, establish geographically focused business-owner meetings, ex-
pand business development workshops, and continue development of tools such as the avail-
able-property inventory and InWestChicago business resources.
The Work Plan also establishes 2027 as a significant implementation year for several existing initia-
tives, including construction of the Downtown Modernization & Beautification Project, implementation
of the new City website, continued review of business regulations, evaluation of multi-family housing
regulations, and an update to the Comprehensive Plan.
Following its review, the Economic Development Commission recommended approval of the 2027–
2029 Economic Development Work Plan and its transmittal to the City Council for consideration.
The Work Plan represents the EDC's recommendation to the City Council regarding the priorities
and initiatives that should guide the City's economic development efforts over the next three years
and serve as a basis for future budget and resource recommendations. The Work Plan establishes a
framework for continued planning and implementation but does not constitute authorization of each
individual project. Projects will continue to be subject to applicable budget appropriations, regulatory
approvals, procurement requirements, agreements, and City Council consideration, as appropriate.
ACTIONS PROPOSED:
Approve the 2027–2029 Economic Development Work Plan, as recommended by the Economic De-
velopment Commission.

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
This item did not go to a Committee.

Attachment: 2027-2029 Economic Development Work Plan

===== PDF PAGE 52 =====

City of West Chicago 2027-2029 Economic Development Work Plan
Priority
Initiative
Priority
Alignment
Projects/Policy Updates
Activity Year
Core or
Supporting
Participating
Department / Entities
Milestone
Remarks
Revitalizing
Downtown
Advance Redevelopment &
Infill
1.A.1
Continue promoting Downtown developments to construct 200+
dwelling units in total
Ongoing
Core
BCR, CD
Downtown townhouse project being pursued
via Development Agreement; anticipate
construction in 2027
Revitalizing
Downtown
Advance Redevelopment &
Infill
1.A.2
Conduct outreach and develop concept plan for the public use of the
West Washington Street Redevelopment Site
2027
Core
BCR, CD, Downtown
Revitalization
Commission
3rd Quarter
Project kick-off anticipated in late November
2026
Revitalizing
Downtown
Advance Redevelopment &
Infill
1.A.3
Demolish deteriorated City-owned structures that are unsafe and
beyond reasonable repair
2027
Supporting
CD
Continuation of existing program
Revitalizing
Downtown
Advance Redevelopment &
Infill
1.A.4
Prepare City-owned properties for development, upon demolition
(conduct Survey & Phase I & II Environmental)
2027
Supporting
BCR, CD, PW
To create shovel-ready site(s)
Revitalizing
Downtown
Advance Redevelopment &
Infill
1.A.5
Amend zoning regulations in the B-1 District bulk requirements to allow
greater height, density (perhaps bonuses for TOD), and intensity
2027
Core
BCR, CD, Downtown
Revitalization
Commission
4th Quarter
Downtown Revitalization Commission
recommended a form-based code approach.
Revitalizing
Downtown
Expand Downtown
Business & Retail Mix
1.B.1
Attract new retailers and restaurants to downtown and support existing
ones via the Retail & Restaurant Grant Program
Ongoing
Core
BCR
Revitalizing
Downtown
Expand Downtown
Business & Retail Mix
1.B.2
Assist local entrepreneurs turning vacant buildings into businesses
through the Downtown Investment Program
Ongoing
Core
BCR
Revitalizing
Downtown
Expand Downtown
Business & Retail Mix
1.B.3
Host quarterly meetings with downtown businesses and property
owners to share City updates, coordinate promotions, and obtain
feedback
Ongoing
Core
Admin, BCR, CD, Police,
PW
Quarterly
Revitalizing
Downtown
Expand Downtown
Business & Retail Mix
1.B.3.a
Conduct outreach to business & property owners regarding the
Downtown Modernization & Beautification Project construction
2027
Core
BCR
Ongoing communication during
construction; EDC to consider program to
assist business owners increase advertising
efforts
Revitalizing
Downtown
Expand Downtown
Business & Retail Mix
1.B.4
Support development of a downtown food hall
Ongoing
Core
BCR
Revitalizing
Downtown
Expand Downtown
Business & Retail Mix
1.B.5
Support development of a small business incubator and accelerator
space(s)
Ongoing
Core
BCR
Revitalizing
Downtown
Expand Downtown
Business & Retail Mix
1.B.5.a
Design a new indoor marketplace to support entrepreneurs
2027
Supporting
BCR, CD, PW
3rd Quarter
Revitalizing
Downtown
Expand Downtown
Business & Retail Mix
1.B.5.b
Construct a new indoor marketplace to support entrepreneurs
2028
Supporting
BCR, CD, PW
2nd Quarter
Revitalizing
Downtown
Expand Downtown
Business & Retail Mix
1.B.6
Amend zoning regulations to expand downtown permitted uses to
include artisan manufacturing, arts & culture, child/elder care,
medical services, shared workspaces, and more
2027
Core
BCR, CD
1st Quarter
Revitalizing
Downtown
Expand Downtown
Business & Retail Mix
1.B.7
Nurture home-based businesses to grow into commercial locations
through business registration
2027
Core
BCR
1st Quarter
Consider as part of the new business
regulations & to support marketplace
vendors
1 of 8
EDC Recommendation | 08/20/2026

===== PDF PAGE 53 =====

City of West Chicago 2027-2029 Economic Development Work Plan
Priority
Initiative
Priority
Alignment
Projects/Policy Updates
Activity Year
Core or
Supporting
Participating
Department / Entities
Milestone
Remarks
Revitalizing
Downtown
Activate Downtown with
Events, Arts & Placemaking 1.C.1
Coordinate seasonal decorations and aesthetic enhancements to
create a cohesive Downtown experience
Ongoing
Supporting
BCR, PW
Will need to evaluate banner opportunities if
new light poles are installed in 2027
Revitalizing
Downtown
Activate Downtown with
Events, Arts & Placemaking 1.C.2
Support development of summer Cultural Market & Food Truck weekly
series
2028
Supporting
BCR, CD, Police, PW
2nd Quarter
Mosaic Market launched successfully in
2026. Anticipate consideration of expanded
food truck regulations in late 2026;
anticipate putting implementation on hold
due to downtown construction in 2027
Revitalizing
Downtown
Activate Downtown with
Events, Arts & Placemaking 1.C.3
Identify City-owned properties Downtown for art showcases or murals
and connect with artists to activate
2027
Supporting
BCR - Cultural Arts
Commission
2nd Quarter In conjunction with the Downtown
Modernization & Beautification Project
Revitalizing
Downtown
Activate Downtown with
Events, Arts & Placemaking 1.C.4
Schedule monthly pop-up performances and entertainment in
Downtown during the summer to activate the streetscape
2028
Supporting
BCR
1st Quarter
Revitalizing
Downtown
Activate Downtown with
Events, Arts & Placemaking 1.C.5
Evaluate regulations to activate public sidewalks (i.e. permit sidewalk
sales and pop-up activities)
2027
Core
BCR, CD
2nd Quarter
Revitalizing
Downtown
Activate Downtown with
Events, Arts & Placemaking 1.C.7
Facilitate the design of futsal fields in the downtown to activate the
West Washington Street Site
2027
Supporting
BCR, CD, PW
3rd Quarter
Subject to approval of a text amendment to
allow athletic fields in the downtown as a
Special Use followed by subsequent
approval of a Special Use
Revitalizing
Downtown
Activate Downtown with
Events, Arts & Placemaking 1.C.8
Oversee the construction of the futsal fields and associated
improvements on the West Washington Street Site
2028
Supporting
BCR, CD, PW
2nd Quarter Upon completion of the design of the site
Revitalizing
Downtown
Enhance Mobility,
Connectivity & Public
Realm
1.D.1
Improve signage for Downtown public parking lots and map locations
online
2027
Supporting
BCR, PW
3rd Quarter
In conjunction with the Downtown
Modernization & Beautification Project
Revitalizing
Downtown
Enhance Mobility,
Connectivity & Public
Realm
1.D.2
Conduct outreach to design the Downtown Modernization &
Beautification Project
2027
Core
BCR, PW
1st Quarter
May need to continue outreach for design
elements not included in the engineering
design
Revitalizing
Downtown
Enhance Mobility,
Connectivity & Public
Realm
1.D.3
Construct improvements for the Downtown Modernization &
Beautification Project
2027
Core
PW
4th Quarter
2 of 8
EDC Recommendation | 08/20/2026

===== PDF PAGE 54 =====

City of West Chicago 2027-2029 Economic Development Work Plan
Priority
Initiative
Priority
Alignment
Projects/Policy Updates
Activity Year
Core or
Supporting
Participating
Department / Entities
Milestone
Remarks
Revitalizing
Downtown
Enhance Mobility,
Connectivity & Public
Realm
1.D.4
Study the ability to eliminate the truck route through the downtown by
transitioning the Grand Lake Boulevard / Elliott Avenue Land Uses from
Industrial to Residential or Mixed-Use
2027
Core
BCR, CD, PW
4th Quarter
The study could evaluate floodplain
constraints and developability, compatibility
with surrounding neighborhoods, strategies
for transitioning existing industrial properties
over time, and opportunities to reduce truck
traffic through downtown while supporting
future industrial growth in more appropriate
locations.
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Modernize Digital Service
Delivery & Access
2.A.1
Continue livestreaming City Council meetings
Ongoing
Supporting
Admin
City Council meetings continue to be
livestreamed.
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Modernize Digital Service
Delivery & Access
2.A.2
Expand bilingual/multilingual communications across City channels
Ongoing
Supporting
BCR
Bilingual communications continue to
expand across City platforms, including on
the new website.
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Modernize Digital Service
Delivery & Access
2.A.3
Design and implement new official City website (.gov)
2027
Core
BCR
3rd Quarter
Contract anticipated to be approved in 3rd
quarter 2026; Project anticipated to be
completed during 3rd quarter 2027
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Modernize Digital Service
Delivery & Access
2.A.4
Improve City calendar and meeting records management systems
2027
Core
Admin, BCR
3rd Quarter
Calendar and meeting records management
options are under review for inclusion as part
of a public engagement platform and/or new
website
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Modernize Digital Service
Delivery & Access
2.A.5
Implement consolidated online application process for business
services
2027
Core
BCR
3rd Quarter
Upon completion of the updated business
regulations and implementation of new ERP,
if approved
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Modernize Digital Service
Delivery & Access
2.A.6
Add capabilities for direct mail, SMS/text updates, and WhatsApp
groups
2027
Supporting
BCR
1st Quarter
2026 - Direct mail relaunched. An event
calendar was published in the spring Library
Program Guide that was mailed to residents.
The Quarterly City Bulletins are now available
to be mailed to those who opt-in. SMS/text
updates to be incorporated into the new
website
3 of 8
EDC Recommendation | 08/20/2026

===== PDF PAGE 55 =====

City of West Chicago 2027-2029 Economic Development Work Plan
Priority
Initiative
Priority
Alignment
Projects/Policy Updates
Activity Year
Core or
Supporting
Participating
Department / Entities
Milestone
Remarks
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Modernize Digital Service
Delivery & Access
2.A.7
Evaluate establishing a City informational app (digital help desk) to
provide information and allow issue reporting (service request system)
2028
Core
BCR, IT
1st Quarter
Upon implementation of new ERP, if
approved, or the new website
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Modernize Digital Service
Delivery & Access
2.A.8
Create a digital help desk and service request system
2029
Supporting
IT
Pending outcome of study
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Modernize Digital Service
Delivery & Access
2.A.9
Implement new Enterprise Resource Planning system to improve
public access to City operations
2027
Core
Admin, BCR, CD,
Finance, Police, PW
3rd Quarter
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Build Transparency &
Accountability Through
Data & Communication
2.B.1
Host an annual open house to showcase City projects and services
Ongoing
Supporting
Admin, BCR, CD,
Finance, Police, PW
April
Consider including as part of the State of the
City address
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Build Transparency &
Accountability Through
Data & Communication
2.B.2
Expand feedback opportunities with online surveys throughout the
year, including post-event surveys
2027
Supporting
BCR
2nd Quarter
Implement a Community-wide Survey (NCS
by mail) & also include multiple opportunities
throughout the year to provide input via
surveys, polls, etc. via new public
engagement platform
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Build Transparency &
Accountability Through
Data & Communication
2.B.3
Provide regular communication with the business community through
social media, newsletters, and InWestChicago website
Ongoing
Core
BCR
Monthly
Business e-newsletters resumed;
InWestChicago website development
continues.
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Build Transparency &
Accountability Through
Data & Communication
2.B.4
Review and adjust fees associated with business services to ensure
fairness, competitiveness, and alignment with service costs
2027
Core
Admin, BCR, Finance
2nd Quarter
Upon completion of review and updating of
business regulations (5.B.12). Anticipate
new fees to become effective on July 1, 2027
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Strengthen Coordination &
Engagement Across the
Community
2.C.1
Continue to engage other taxing jurisdictions and public agencies to
share costs of services, facilities, and programs
Ongoing
Supporting
Admin, BCR, Finance
Discussion has begun for a shared
community calendar and potential mailed
community guide
Delivering
Exceptional &
Transparent
Services
Strengthen Coordination &
Engagement Across the
Community
2.C.2
Coordinate and invite all taxing bodies to attend an “Annual
Community Strategy Summit” to align priorities and explore shared
initiatives
Ongoing
Supporting
Admin, BCR
Quarterly
Community Engagement Roundtable
launched in July 2026 to strengthen
partnerships
Connecting the
Community
Expand Mobility & Physical
Connectivity
3.A.1
Develop sidewalk and bicycle network to connect parks, outdoor
spaces, and recreational facilities
Ongoing
Supporting
CD, PW
The City has partnered with Healthy West
Chicago to identify capital improvement and
signage opportunities.
4 of 8
EDC Recommendation | 08/20/2026

===== PDF PAGE 56 =====

City of West Chicago 2027-2029 Economic Development Work Plan
Priority
Initiative
Priority
Alignment
Projects/Policy Updates
Activity Year
Core or
Supporting
Participating
Department / Entities
Milestone
Remarks
Connecting the
Community
Expand Mobility & Physical
Connectivity
3.A.2
Identify opportunities to provide wayfinding signage along trails to
connect users to community assets
2027
Core
BCR, PW
1st Quarter
Wayfinding opportunities are being evaluated
as part of the Downtown Modernization &
Beautification Project.
Connecting the
Community
Expand Mobility & Physical
Connectivity
3.A.3
Evaluate sidewalk and trail connectivity and street lighting coverage to
assess priorities for improvements to public safety and community
appearance
2027
Supporting
PW
Connecting the
Community
Expand Mobility & Physical
Connectivity
3.A.4
Evaluate opportunities to install pedestrian safety and traffic calming
techniques at Neltnor Boulevard and Washington Street & Main Street
intersections, including wayfinding signage
2028
Supporting
BCR, PW
3rd Quarter
Connecting the
Community
Expand Mobility & Physical
Connectivity
3.A.5
Integrate resilience and safety into transportation planning to ensure
equitable mobility access across all neighborhoods
2028
Supporting
CD, PW
Upon completion of the Comprehensive Plan
update
Connecting the
Community
Strengthen Community
Partnerships
3.B.1
Recruit volunteers to serve as City ambassadors to share stories and
connect residents and businesses with City resources that support
local investment and opportunity
2027
Core
BCR
2nd Quarter
Connecting the
Community
Strengthen Community
Partnerships
3.B.2
Expand partnerships with regional and local organizations to connect
residents to workforce and small business resources that grow the
local economy
2028
Core
BCR
2nd Quarter
Elevating Culture &
Community
Identity
Support Diverse Cultural
Expression Through Events
& Storytelling
4.A.1
Evaluate City-hosted or sponsored special events to ensure they
incorporate cultural initiatives
Ongoing
Supporting
BCR
Community partners are coordinating efforts
to align community and cultural events.
Elevating Culture &
Community
Identity
Support Diverse Cultural
Expression Through Events
& Storytelling
4.A.2
Feature one or two parades to celebrate community culture
Ongoing
Core
BCR, Police, PW
Potential to re-evaluate cultural celebrations
through Community Engagement Roundtable
collaborations
Elevating Culture &
Community
Identity
Support Diverse Cultural
Expression Through Events
& Storytelling
4.A.3
Showcase walking tours featuring West Chicago history, culture, and
art
Ongoing
Supporting
BCR - Cultural Arts
Commission & City
Museum
3rd Quarter
Continue expanding the walking tours to
encourage continued exploration of the
community
Elevating Culture &
Community
Identity
Support Diverse Cultural
Expression Through Events
& Storytelling
4.A.4
Strengthen signature events with live art, music, and artisan vendors
Ongoing
Supporting
BCR - Cultural Arts
Commission
Elevating Culture &
Community
Identity
Support Diverse Cultural
Expression Through Events
& Storytelling
4.A.5
Expand music, dance, and performance events in public spaces
2028
Supporting
BCR - Cultural Arts
Commission
1st Quarter
Entertainment areas are being incorporated
into the Downtown Modernization &
Beautification Project
Elevating Culture &
Community
Identity
Champion Inclusive
Initiatives That Reflect
Cultural Richness
4.B.1
Partner with Mexican Cultural Center DuPage to expand cultural
programming and cross-cultural partnerships
2027
Core
BCR
3rd Quarter
5 of 8
EDC Recommendation | 08/20/2026

===== PDF PAGE 57 =====

City of West Chicago 2027-2029 Economic Development Work Plan
Priority
Initiative
Priority
Alignment
Projects/Policy Updates
Activity Year
Core or
Supporting
Participating
Department / Entities
Milestone
Remarks
Elevating Culture &
Community
Identity
Champion Inclusive
Initiatives That Reflect
Cultural Richness
4.B.2
Partner with Casa Michoacán and Despertar Latino to promote cultural
festivals and strengthen Latino heritage celebrations
Ongoing
Core
BCR
Partners are coordinating the Mexican
Independence Day celebration.
Elevating Culture &
Community
Identity
Preserve & Enhance
Historic & Cultural Assets
4.C.1
Continue to publicize and expand local incentives and grants for
preservation where feasible
Ongoing
Supporting
BCR, CD
Elevating Culture &
Community
Identity
Preserve & Enhance
Historic & Cultural Assets
4.C.3
Prepare design drawings for the adaptive reuse of the Washington
Street Train Depot
2028
Supporting
CD
2nd Quarter Contingent on the West Washington Street
Concept Plan; may begin in 2027
Elevating Culture &
Community
Identity
Preserve & Enhance
Historic & Cultural Assets
4.C.4
Review and update design guidelines specifically for historic properties
within the Turner Junction Historic District
2028
Core
CD
Elevating Culture &
Community
Identity
Promote City Identity
Through Branding &
Storytelling
4.D.1
Create monthly business and community spotlight articles across City
communications
2027
Supporting
BCR
3rd Quarter
Business community spotlight articles have
been posted, as applicable (e.g. St. Andrews
100th Anniversary).
Elevating Culture &
Community
Identity
Promote City Identity
Through Branding &
Storytelling
4.D.2
Create an online business directory to promote Shop Local
2027
Supporting
BCR
4th Quarter
Restaurant list developed for the Big Boy
event. Business Directory is being developed
for the InWestChicago website.
Elevating Culture &
Community
Identity
Promote City Identity
Through Branding &
Storytelling
4.D.3
Develop a dining and shopping guide as part of a Shop Local program
2028
Supporting
BCR
1st Quarter
Elevating Culture &
Community
Identity
Promote City Identity
Through Branding &
Storytelling
4.D.4
Rebrand the City's image
2027
Core
BCR
1st Quarter
Rebranding to coincide with the launch of the
City's new website
Investing in Our
Future
Strengthen Physical
Infrastructure
5.A.1
Replace and maintain infrastructure within industrial parks
Ongoing
Supporting
PW
Western, Downs, and Fenton Lane are under
construction in 2026; Industrial Drive will be
reconstructed in 2027
Investing in Our
Future
Strengthen Physical
Infrastructure
5.A.2
Continue maintenance and replacement of water and sanitary systems
to exceed standards
Ongoing
Supporting
PW
Water and sanitary rate study is underway
Investing in Our
Future
Strengthen Physical
Infrastructure
5.A.3
Consider use of development incentives/public financing tools for
roadway/infrastructure
Ongoing
Supporting
BCR, Finance, PW
The City issued a General Obligation Bond to
fund roadway improvements in the industrial
parks in 2026; a subsequent bond issuance
is anticipated for 2027 construction
Investing in Our
Future
Strengthen Physical
Infrastructure
5.A.4
Present concept plan for new elevated water tower at Prince Crossing
Road and Washington Street for public comment
2027
Core
BCR, PW
2nd Quarter Loan application was not approved in 2026
so the project is on hold, pending funding.
Investing in Our
Future
Strengthen Physical
Infrastructure
5.A.5
Construct elevated water tower at Prince Crossing Road and
Washington Street
2028
Core
PW
6 of 8
EDC Recommendation | 08/20/2026

===== PDF PAGE 58 =====

City of West Chicago 2027-2029 Economic Development Work Plan
Priority
Initiative
Priority
Alignment
Projects/Policy Updates
Activity Year
Core or
Supporting
Participating
Department / Entities
Milestone
Remarks
Investing in Our
Future
Promote Sustainable &
Strategic Economic
Development
5.B.1
Actively recruit housing developers by partnering with landowners
Ongoing
Core
BCR
One housing development is ready for permit
issuance; three others are under review.
Investing in Our
Future
Promote Sustainable &
Strategic Economic
Development
5.B.3
Attract new retailers to vacant spaces through Retail Lease Trac
subscription
2027
Core
BCR
3rd Quarter
Investing in Our
Future
Promote Sustainable &
Strategic Economic
Development
5.B.4
Prepare and maintain an online inventory of available land and property
for redevelopment
2027
Core
BCR
2nd Quarter Property inventory development for the
downtown has begun
Investing in Our
Future
Promote Sustainable &
Strategic Economic
Development
5.B.5
Conduct regular business surveys to identify risks for business
relocation or expansion
2027
Core
BCR
4th Quarter
The optional survey with the Business
Registration Renewal will continue until a
public engagement platform is implemented
Investing in Our
Future
Promote Sustainable &
Strategic Economic
Development
5.B.6
Host regular meetings with the DuPage Airport Authority (DAA) to
update the IGA and develop a strategy to leverage the airport as an
asset
Ongoing
Core
BCR
Semi-Annual
Initial term expired on 01/01/2026;
agreement automatically extended for
successive 25-year terms unless terminated
Investing in Our
Future
Promote Sustainable &
Strategic Economic
Development
5.B.7
Coordinate quarterly workshops with partners on business
development topics, including investment, funding opportunities, and
budgeting techniques
2028
Core
BCR
1st Quarter
Investing in Our
Future
Promote Sustainable &
Strategic Economic
Development
5.B.8
Coordinate regional business owner meetings by geography
2027
Core
BCR
Quarterly
Quarterly meetings, with one meeting held
annually in each geographic business area:
Roosevelt Road Corridor, North Avenue
Corridor, DuPage Business Center, and
Industrial Park
Investing in Our
Future
Promote Sustainable &
Strategic Economic
Development
5.B.9
Connect small businesses to capital opportunities (CDFIs, banks,
microfinance)
2027
Core
BCR
2nd Quarter
Investing in Our
Future
Promote Sustainable &
Strategic Economic
Development
5.B.10
Coordinate matchmaking events between entrepreneurs & local
investors
2028
Core
BCR
4th Quarter
Investing in Our
Future
Promote Sustainable &
Strategic Economic
Development
5.B.11
Create and maintain a community job board as a one-stop shop for
employment within the City
2027
Core
BCR
4th Quarter
Capability to be incorporated into
InWestChicago.com
Investing in Our
Future
Promote Sustainable &
Strategic Economic
Development
5.B.12
Review business registration and licensing regulations to support
flexibility and industry shifts
2027
Supporting
Admin, BCR
1st Quarter
Business regulations review is underway
7 of 8
EDC Recommendation | 08/20/2026

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City of West Chicago 2027-2029 Economic Development Work Plan
Priority
Initiative
Priority
Alignment
Projects/Policy Updates
Activity Year
Core or
Supporting
Participating
Department / Entities
Milestone
Remarks
Investing in Our
Future
Promote Sustainable &
Strategic Economic
Development
5.B.13
Conduct a comprehensive review of multi-family housing regulations,
including the R-6 District near Downtown, to identify opportunities for
zoning updates that support redevelopment, compact housing options
including Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), and expanded residential
base to strengthen West Chicago’s business environment
2027
Core
BCR, CD
2nd Quarter Upon completion of a housing analysis
Investing in Our
Future
Promote Sustainable &
Strategic Economic
Development
5.B.14
Evaluate parking minimums, particularly on Roosevelt Road, to identify
opportunities for outlot development on existing sites
2029
Supporting
CD
Investing in Our
Future
Promote Sustainable &
Strategic Economic
Development
5.B.15
Consider zoning map amendments for key properties to align with the
Future Land Use Map
2028
Supporting
CD
Upon completion of the updated
Comprehensive Plan
Investing in Our
Future
Expand Workforce
Readiness & Industry
Collaboration
5.C.1
Support manufacturing talent pipeline by participating in Greater
Chicago Advanced Manufacturing Partnership (GCAMP)
Ongoing
Supporting
BCR
Annual
Current partnership level is Leader Sponsor
Investing in Our
Future
Expand Workforce
Readiness & Industry
Collaboration
5.C.2
Partner with College of DuPage and local industries to develop
internship, apprenticeship, or train-to-hire programs
Ongoing
Core
BCR
Investing in Our
Future
Expand Workforce
Readiness & Industry
Collaboration
5.C.3
Regularly gather data on evolving education and workforce training
needs
Ongoing
Supporting
BCR
Evaluate annually
Investing in Our
Future
Expand Workforce
Readiness & Industry
Collaboration
5.C.4
Explore partnership with Western DuPage Chamber of Commerce to
provide direct workforce development support for manufacturers
2027
Core
BCR
2nd Quarter
Investing in Our
Future
Expand Workforce
Readiness & Industry
Collaboration
5.C.5
Partner with Aurora Regional Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to
provide targeted business and workforce support
2028
Core
BCR
3rd Quarter
Investing in Our
Future
Expand Workforce
Readiness & Industry
Collaboration
5.C.6
Host annual event with manufacturers to understand challenges and
connect to business development resources
Ongoing
Supporting
BCR
October
Planning is underway for 2026
Investing in Our
Future
Ensure Resilient &
Adaptive Policies
5.D.1
Continue proactive evaluation of budget allocations to align with
community-driven priorities
Ongoing
Supporting
Admin, Finance
2027 budget preparation has begun
Investing in Our
Future
Ensure Resilient &
Adaptive Policies
5.D.2
Maintain flexibility in zoning and development codes to respond to
emerging industries and evolving community needs, including the
potential addition of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
Ongoing
Supporting
CD
Investing in Our
Future
Ensure Resilient &
Adaptive Policies
5.D.3
Review regulations for modern practices, enforceability, and
community priorities
2027
Supporting
Admin, BCR, Finance, CD 1st Quarter
Business regulations review continues with
interdepartmental coordination
Investing in Our
Future
Ensure Resilient &
Adaptive Policies
5.D.4
Align land use, infrastructure, housing, and economic development
policies with current community needs and future opportunities
through an update of the Comprehensive Plan
2027
Core
BCR, CD
8 of 8
EDC Recommendation | 08/20/2026