Wood Dale bar getting help with facade improvements

The Wood Dale City Council has approved financial assistance for JB's Inn, a neighborhood bar, as part of the city's facade improvement program.

The city offers the program to encourage improvements to commercial properties within the Town Center and along the its main commercial corridors. Eligible projects can receive a reimbursement grant of up to 50 percent of the cost for improving an existing building, up to $130,000.

JB's Inn was built in 1938, and last remodeled in 1991, with an outdoor seating area added in 2007. The proposed work will improve the exterior aesthetics of the building to make it more inviting and enhance the Irving Park streetscape in one of the city's major commercial corridors.

Planned improvements to JB's facade include constructing a prominent entry vestibule; replacing and adding windows along Irving Park Road and Oakwood Drive; installing new siding and stone veneer; painting the exterior of the building; and constructing a garden wall with landscaping. A new sign with electronic message board also will be installed along Irving Park Road to replace the existing sign.

Reconstruction and improvements are scheduled to begin in spring with completion in early summer.

"The proposed improvements to JB's Inn will enhance curb appeal and create a welcoming atmosphere within the community," Director of Community Development Ed Cage said.

For details on the city's facade program, visit econdev.wooddale.com.