Barrington focusing downtown

Looming threats of a poor economy and the onset of Canadian National's increased freight train traffic hasn't distracted Barrington officials from the more basic tasks of downtown redevelopment and stormwater management.

The village board hosted a town hall meeting Thursday night aimed at providing the public with information and soliciting questions on both issues.

About 60 residents attended the meeting, which, despite some venting of frustrations, reflected an optimistic picture of a community united by common goals.

Trustees reviewed the status of various redevelopment projects both downtown and along Route 14, acknowledging that a new hardware store, an independent bookstore and more restaurants remain high priorities.

But Economic Development Director Peggy Blanchard shared the good news that 14 new businesses have opened in the village since January, and things seem to be picking up even faster lately.

"We are probably getting more phone calls in the past two months," Blanchard said. "I don't know what it is. It means to me that people know the market is going to turn."

Trustees hinted that something interesting is pending for the former Wolf Camera site downtown and said a small shopping center is being sought to fill the former site of the Champion Dodge dealership on Route 14.

Village staff and consultants also solicited input for a $150,000 global study of the village's stormwater management problems, an issue brought to the fore by major storms in the past two years.

Engineering & Building Director Greg Summers said residents can call his department at (847) 304-3460 to report new or lingering stormwater issues.

As far as Canadian National, trustees urged residents not to let up in their phone calls and letters demanding relief.