Orland Park Village Board Explores Development Strategies

The Orland Park Village Board is focusing on development within four key areas as part of a comprehensive plan review. They aim to revitalize the Old Orland Historic District, Gateway to LaGrange District, Harlem Avenue Corridor, and I-80 Employment Corridor. The plan is to eventually connect these areas with a new downtown.

Collaboration and Community Input

Mayor Jim Dodge emphasized the importance of this initiative, describing it as ‘Orland’s destiny.’ With support from urban planning firm Houseal Levigne, the board will gather input from businesses and residents. An online survey and community meetings will aid in this process, with a final plan expected next summer.

Addressing Challenges and Prioritizing Needs

Board members were tasked to list issues for each area and identify key concerns. In the Old Orland Historic District, enhancing existing properties and balancing development with historic preservation emerged as priorities. The area’s unique character and central location were seen as strengths.

Encouraging New Developments

The board examined potential developments for the I-80 Employment and Harlem Avenue corridors. With post-COVID-19 changes in work habits, board member Michael Milani discussed the need for a new identity for these areas, suggesting data centers despite some opposition.

Cynthia Katsenes noted challenges with data centers, such as high resource demands and noise pollution, particularly near senior housing. Conversely, Milani argued data centers could be more beneficial than warehouses, generating more tax revenue.

Future Plans for the Downtown Area

Although changes are in the long term, Mayor Dodge expressed enthusiasm for gathering diverse perspectives on development. The village plans to present its downtown strategy, linked to a tax increment financing district, in upcoming board meetings. Dodge emphasized the value of board members sharing ideas and anticipated resident feedback.