More people are living in downtown Palatine

While high vacancy rates in downtown Palatine are still a pressing concern, village officials were pleased to learn of a sharp spike in population over the last several years.

Since 2000, the number of residents living downtown almost tripled to 1,823 people from 627 people. The housing count more than tripled to 1,169 units from 313 units.

The updated demographic information was obtained through a partial special census conducted last September whose results were revealed this week.

Palatine paid more than $95,000 to the U.S. Census Bureau for the survey. As a result, Village Manager Reid Ottesen expects to collect an additional $313,352 in revenue from motor fuel taxes, income tax receipts and state use taxes. The amount could actually come closer to $450,000 since the results of the 2010 census probably won't be certified until the following year.

"This is a great return on our investment," Councilman Scott Lamerand said.

The U.S. Census Bureau enumerators knocked on every door in the designated area to take stock of basic statistics, including sex, age, race, relationships and income.

The condominium and row house developments downtown have attracted many young professionals. More than 30 percent of downtown residents fall in the 25-to-34 age bracket. Villagewide, the 2000 census showed that same bracket carrying only 18 percent of the population.

The special census also showed a significant difference in the number of Hispanic people living downtown today (4.8 percent) compared Palatine's total Hispanic population in the census nine years ago (14.1 percent).

In addition, downtown residents are more likely to live alone. The special census showed 48.3 percent live by themselves, compared to 2000 census numbers showing just 27.5 percent living alone in all of Palatine.

Palatine's current official population stands at 67,440.

A special census was last conducted in 1996. Another may not be needed for a while since the village is nearly built out.