Highland Park makes plans for Crossroads Business District
This fall, the city of Highland Park will begin a planning project focused on the future of the Crossroads Business District.
One of the city's primary commercial districts, the district represents an approximately one-mile-long corridor along Skokie Valley Road, parallel to Route 41. The planning process began in September with initial public engagement and outreach to property owners, business owners, nearby residents and other stakeholders.
The plan will include land use recommendations and direction for future development.
The city council identified the need for a comprehensive, long-term plan for the Crossroads Business District in 2019. The district is home to a variety of businesses, including automobile dealerships and related services, home improvement and other retailers, food establishments, financial advisers, a hotel, and office uses.
Changes in economic, demographic, and market trends have prompted the consideration for new uses and tenants.
"The city council prioritizes business development and recognized that real estate and commercial market conditions have evolved. This important planning process will proactively position the Crossroads Business District for continued success and growth," Mayor Nancy Rotering said.
"Through community engagement and public meetings, a collaborative vision and plans for the future of the Skokie Valley Road corridor will be created to meet the needs of the community with a strong focus on economic vitality and community vibrancy."
The planning process is designed to identify new potential uses for the district that will assist property owners, developers and business owners in adapting to new trends and market demand. In preparation for this process, city staff have completed an existing conditions analysis, a summary of which will be shared on the city's dedicated project webpage, www.cityhpil.com/crossroads.
The city began hosting virtual outreach meetings in September. Feedback gathered during these meetings will inform goals and objectives for the project. These findings will be incorporated into the city's existing conditions report, which will be presented to the plan and design commission and city council before the end of the year.
In January 2021, a draft plan will be produced and circulated for comment from the plan and design commission, city council, and the general public. This feedback will be incorporated into a final draft that will be presented publicly in February.
City staff will then make any further revisions as necessary before drafting and presenting a final subarea plan to the city council for adoption in early spring 2021. Any zoning-related matters resulting from the policy direction of the city council will then proceed through a formal public hearing in late spring 2021.
To attend a virtual meeting, provide feedback on the corridor or obtain further information, visit the dedicated website project page at cityhpil.com/crossroads.