Glen Ellyn to give downtown big makeover

Concern about the state of downtown Glen Ellyn has village leaders pushing for a study of the area.

Village officials have been collecting feedback about the downtown from residents and business owners. The list of comments include concerns about lack of parking, a rise in vacancy rates and a reduction in foot traffic.

Now village leaders are searching for consultants to conduct a downtown Glen Ellyn strategic plan study.

A timeline hasn't been determined. But once the study is completed, approved ideas will be added to the village's overall comprehensive plan.

Acting Village Manager Curt Barrett said a study of the downtown hasn't been done in decades.

"We're looking to put together a team that would have the expertise to really help us do a good job of conducting an overall study of the situation we find today," Barrett said.

Consultants will determine what types of opportunities the village has to upgrade, improve infrastructure, promote redevelopment and address certain issues, such as aesthetics and parking.

Barrett said the hope is to get a full picture of what the downtown has to offer and determine how to draw people to it.

The village already has included $50,000 in its budget for downtown development. Officials anticipate additional money will be set aside in the next budget cycle for completion of the plan.

After consultants finish the report, village officials expect to have information about marketing strategies and branding ideas.

Other possible suggestions could include whether a parking garage is needed and if it's necessary to improve the existing transportation infrastructure.

The plan calls for village officials and the consultants to have public hearings with residents, store owners and members of different downtown groups to obtain opinions.

"I think the process will be very inclusive on getting feedback from the different stakeholders," Barrett said.