Continually enhancing quality of life in River Forest is one of the village’s main priorities, and this happens, in part, through new development that attracts businesses, services and amenities.
At the most recent “Casual Conversation with the Village President” event, economic development was the conversation’s focus, as we consider many possibilities for new development on open commercial properties in River Forest.
An overview of the village’s development approval process was shared at this event, which includes many steps required of developers to be able to build in River Forest, such as traffic and school impact studies, an economic analysis of the proposal, and other important vetting information. Extensive community engagement opportunities are also provided so our residents can share input prior to any project being considered by the village board.
Earlier this year, the village hired Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) to broker the open Madison Street properties and market them to attract a variety of builders and concepts. The overarching goal is to provide the village with a variety of options to consider so the best fit for the community can be selected. We anticipate receiving proposals over the next two months, and will review options this summer, with the goal of making a selection this fall.
In addition to enhancing quality of life, new development also funds critical village services such as public safety, infrastructure maintenance, storm water management and traffic calming. It also supports our other government entities such as our schools and park and library.
Economic development is one of the many important conversations in River Forest. I invite all residents to be as engaged as possible! Please subscribe to the Village Enewsletter at https://www.vrf.us/E-News.html to stay up to date on news and events, including any new development proposals or possibilities.
Cathy Adduci
River Forest village president