Despite Economic Woes, Redevelopment Plan Moves Forward

The Village of Western Springs remains hard at work on its downtown redevelopment plan, and is in the process of setting a date for the final public hearing before the Plan Commission. After the hearing, the plan will move to the Village Board for final approval.  

Martin Scott, Director of Community Development, is optimistic about the future of the plan coming to fruition. He recently took part in a Funding Summit Breakfast, which brought together developers, brokers, bankers, property owners, and local business owners to discuss the future of the Western Springs redevelopment plan. 

"Our goal was to roll out the plan to the development community, generate interest in our downtown plan for potential investors, and provide feedback. We had 18 attendees and we received a great deal of positive feedback," Scott said. 

Although many investors are understandably guarded at this time due to the state of the economy, Scott predicts an increase in interest in the project over time. 

The village, along with community planners Teska Associates, Inc., have been interested in garnishing as much public input on the topic as possible. According to Scott, overall public opinion has been positive and supportive of the plan. Two open houses were held in June and August, encouraging locals to become informed about the redevelopment plan, ask questions, and provide feedback. 

"We had over 75 people attend the open houses. The vast majority are excited about seeing new development and renovations of existing structures. People want to see more business come to Western Springs, many want to see more restaurants," Scott said. 

According to Scott, some residents expressed concern about building height, and worries over taller buildings dominating the streetscape. Scott remains confident that any new development will remain true to the character and overall vision for a downtown community, and people will approve.

Some of highlights of the plan include; a wayfinding system to help commuters, pedestrians and visitors find their way around downtown Western Springs, a community events sign that is interchangeable and will advertise upcoming events, and a streetscape renovation which includes new plantings and landscaping. 

Renovations to the Metra platform are also on the docket, which include increasing bike parking and improving pedestrian amenities. The Village also wants to improve and expand usage of the Tower Green area.

The village is currently running a $48,000 deficit for government-related business on account of the redevelopment plan. However, 80% of redevelopment costs will be refunded by Metra, which is sponsoring the project.

Western Springs is known for its charming small town, community appeal, and historic atmosphere. The downtown redevelopment plan promises to stay true to the character of the Village, welcome news to many of the Village's long-time residents.

Christine Keuning, resident of Western Springs says she, "enjoys the small town feel of the downtown area, but would like to see more kid-friendly options,"  a sentiment shared by many young parents in the area. With the demographic of young families growing, many are hopeful the redevelopment plan will offer a more family friendly feel.

"Downtown Western Springs lacks a clear vision of what it could be. The goal for this redevelopment plan is to provide a greater revitalization of downtown that will sustain the village into the future," said Scott.

Those interested in learning more about the redevelopment plan for downtown Western Springs can stay up to date by logging on to the Village's website, www.wsprings.com.