Planning and Zoning Commission

Public participation is invited on each agenda item prior to the Board's deliberation. When called upon, please approach the microphone and state your name. Kindly limit your remarks to three (3) minutes. VILLAGE OF VILLA PARK Village Hall, Board Room Chambers 20 S. Ardmore Avenue Villa Park, IL 60181 Planning and Zoning Commission March 13, 2025 7:30 PM Chairman Jason Jarrett Commissioners: Larry Calvert, Edward Hofstra, Kenneth Jackson, Louis LeMieux, Eric Luedtke, Dominick Romano, Justin Shlensky 1. Call to Order - Roll Call 2. Approval of Minutes a. Minutes of February 13, 2025 3. Public Hearing a. PZ-25-03 - 749 N Harvard Ave - Variation b. PZ-25-05 - Comprehensive Plan 4. Discussion Items 5. Public Comments on Non-Agenda Items 6. Adjournment The Villa Park Village Hall is subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. An elevator is operational at the north side entrance to the Village Hall during normal work hours and also during evenings. lndividuals with special needs are requested to contact the Village's Compliance Officer at (630) 834-8500 so that reasonable accommodations can be made for those persons. Page 1 of 71  Village of Villa Park Planning and Zoning Commission February 13, 2025 I. CALL TO ORDER BY THE CHAIRMAN Chairman Jarrett called the meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission to order at 7:30 p.m. II. ROLL CALL AND DECLARATION OF A QUORUM Commissioners Present: LeMieux, Luedtke, Calvert, Orlowski, Romano, Jackson and Chairman Jarrett Commissioners Absent: Hofstra, Shlensky Staff/Liaison Present: Community & Economic Development Director Marc McLaughlin, Planner Rachel Leedom, Village President Nick Cuzzone. A Quorum was present. III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Orlowski moved to approve the minutes from December 12, 2024, as presented. The Motion was seconded by Commissioner Calvert. On roll call: AYES: Commissioners LeMieux, Luedtke, Calvert, Orlowski, Romano, Jackson and Chairman Jarrett (7) NAYS: None (0) The motion carried. IV. New Business a. PZ-25-02-600 N. Villa - Special Use for Vehicle Body and Paint Finishing Shop Petitioner: Wladyslaw Chlebek. Rachael Leedom summarized that the Petitioner is requesting a Public Hearing to consider approval of a Special Use for a Vehicle Body and Paint Finishing Shop within the M-1 Light Industrial District. The property includes a large industrial Page 2 of 71 building with ample parking. It will be a Vehicle Body and Paint Finishing Shop for a trailer truck repair company proposes to occupy tenant Space B. Paint Finishing will not be done on the property therefore no spray booth is needed but can be in the future with this zoning. Krystian Chlebele stated that they are Pro Fix Trailer Repair company and will be repairing trailers. They will not be painting just repairing damage to trailers. Commissioner LeMieux stated that the petition did not include the paint booth but asked if it can be added in the future. Marc McLaughlin said that it could be, but they would need an exhaust, sprinkler, and separated areas for that. Commissioner Jackson asked if they would have to come back and get a permit for that. Marc McLaughlin responded yes, it would be a building permit not Planning and Zoning Commission. Chairman Jarrett asked how many trailers would be parked there. Krystian Chlebele answered about four in the shop. They will have drive and go parking spaces on site. Parts will be stored in a fenced area with a roof. Rachael Leedom said there will be 31 trailer parking spaces. Commissioner Jackson asked if they were running this business in another area. Krystian Chlebele answered yes. Commissioner Jackson asked how many trailers would be there. Krystian Chlebele answered three or more depending on how many repairs were needed. They do mostly big jobs that take weeks to assemble. Chairman Jarrett said it comes down to an enforcement issue. Sometimes this can turn into trailer storage. Marc McLaughlin said this is why the site plan is tied to the project. MOTION Commissioner Luedtke recommends approval of PZ-25-02 for a Special Use for Vehicle Body and Paint Finishing Shop as shown in Exhibit A located at 600 N Villa Avenue “Tenant B” for Pro-Fix Trailer Repair Inc. Page 3 of 71  Commissioner Romano seconds the motion On roll call: AYES: Commissioners LeMieux, Luedtke, Calvert, Orlowski, Romano, Jackson and Chairman Jarrett (7) NAYS: None (0) The motion carried. V. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS Marc McLaughlin let the board know that starting February 14, 2025 the Comprehensive Plan will be available online for everyone to see. It will be on the web site; public comments will be open for a month. Open House for the Comprehensive Plan will be February 26, 2025, at the Villa Park Rec Center Multi-Purpose at 5:30 P.M.. The next Planning and Zoning meeting will be a public hearing on the Comprehensive Plan. VI. ADJOURNMENT Motion Motion to Adjourn made by Commissioner Calvert. Seconded by Commissioner Romano. Voice vote: AYES have it. Meeting Adjourned at 7:45 p.m. Page 4 of 71  Village of Villa Park Community & Economic Development 11 W Home Avenue, Villa Park, IL 60181 TO: Planning & Zoning Commission FROM: Community & Economic Development Department DATE: March 13, 2025 RE: Petition PZ-25-03 | 749 N Harvard Avenue | Variation PETITIONER OWNER Dan Leonard Gary Leonard 749 N. Harvard Avenue 749 N. Harvard Avenue Villa Park, IL 60181 Villa Park, IL 60181 Request Summary The Petitioner proposes to build an addition on to the rear of the existing building. The proposed addition would encroach into the required 10.0-foot interior side setback by 6.9 feet on the south side. Pursuant to the relevant provisions of Article 11 of the Zoning Ordinance, the Petitioner is seeking a Variation to allow the reduction of the minimum required interior side (south) setback from 10.0 feet to 3.0 feet. The Petitioner is also seeking a Variation for the street side setback. The proposed addition would encroach into the required 35.0-foot street side setback by 28.12 feet on the north side of the property. The Petitioner is seeking a Variation to allow the reduction of the minimum required street side setback from 35.0 feet to 6.0 feet. Background The subject property is an industrial battery company. The Petitioner wishes to install an addition on the rear of the building. The proposed addition would follow the existing building walls and would horizontally expand the existing encroachment into the required setbacks. The property is abutting an alley to the north which is why the 35.0-foot street side setback is required, as opposed to the 10.0-foot interior side setback on the south. The rear setback requirement in the M-1 district is 15.0 feet and the proposed addition would be setback 28.41 feet from the rear (east) property line, so no Variation is needed for the rear. If the Petitioner were required to follow the required setbacks, the building would only be 5.0 feet wide which would be unusable and impractical for their business. Building along the existing walls is a more feasible solution. Site Information Present Zoning: Light Industrial District – M-1 Present Land Use: Industrial Property Size: 9,605 sq. ft. / 0.22 acres PINs: 06-04-203-012 Surrounding Zoning Surrounding Land Use North: Service Business District- C-3 Commercial West: Light Industrial District – M-1 Industrial East: Light Industrial District – M-1 Industrial South: Light Industrial District – M-1 Industrial Comprehensive Plan Designation – Corridor Mixed Use This land use category is intended for a mixture of multi-family residential, corridor commercial and institutional uses along major transportation, auto-oriented corridors. This classification encompasses the Village’s main transportation corridors. Page 5 of 71 Zoning Request The Petitioner proposes to build an addition on to the rear of the existing building. The proposed addition would encroach into the required 10.0-foot interior side setback by 6.9 feet on the south side. Pursuant to the relevant provisions of Article 11 of the Zoning Ordinance, the Petitioner is seeking a Variation to allow the reduction of the minimum required interior side (south) setback from 10.0 feet to 3.0 feet. The Petitioner is also seeking a Variation for the street side setback. The proposed addition would encroach into the required 35.0-foot street side setback by 28.12 feet on the north side of the property. The Petitioner is seeking a Variation to allow the reduction of the minimum required street side setback from 35.0 feet to 6.0 feet. Internal Staff Review Variation The Zoning Ordinance specifically allows for Variation petitions in order to grant relief to a property owner from strict compliance with the regulations of the Zoning Ordinance. Variations are intended to help alleviate a practical difficulty or particular hardship that would be caused by the literal enforcement of the subject ordinance requirements and are site specific. Site Plan Review 1. Building and Structure Location - The following comments relate to the issue of building and structure location in regard to the proposed development plans: a. The proposed addition to the building continues along the existing exterior walls. The M-1 district requires a 10.0-foot setback on south side of the building for the interior side setback. The current building is setback 3.1 feet from the south property line. A 35.0-foot setback is required on the north side of the building due to the alley next to the property. The current building is setback 6.88 feet from the north property line. b. The rear setback requirement in the M-1 district is 15.0 feet and the proposed addition would be setback 28.41 feet from the rear (east) property line. 2. Building scale - The following comments relate to the issue of building scale in regard to the proposed development plans: a. The continuation of the non-conforming exterior walls provides an appropriate building scale for the lot. 3. Lot Coverage - The following comments relate to the issue of lot coverage in regard to the proposed development plans: a. As this area is currently paved, no additional lot coverage would be added. 4. Completeness - If the Planning and Zoning Commission requires additional information to determine whether the applicant’s development requests comply with the applicable standards of the Code, they may direct the Petitioner to furnish additional information and evidence that may provide clarity regarding their concerns. Findings Per Sec. 11.5.6.8. The Planning and Zoning Commission's recommendation must be accompanied by specific findings of fact regarding whether practical difficulties or particular hardships would result if a Variation is not granted. The Petitioner has submitted the following justification for a Variation from Article 3, Section 3.2, Table 3-2 of the Zoning Ordinance: A. State the particular hardship and/or practical difficulty created for you in carrying out the strict letter of the zoning regulations to wit: The owners have been operating their business from this building and neighborhood for years, but the lack of storage area has made their operation challenging. This has caused hardship to run an efficient 2 Page 6 of 71  business and continue to keep up with their growth. B. A reasonable return or use of your property is not possible under the existing regulations because: The owners prefer to stay and continue to operate their business at this location, which is a suitable location for their type of use. Due to their business growth and necessity to operate more efficient business, a storage room is required. Their current layout and the lack of adequate storage has made their operation very challenging for a reasonable return at this location due to current regulation. C. Your situation is unique (not applicable in other properties in the area or zoning classification) in the following respect: The location is very ideal for the owners to continue operating their business. Without a properly laid out interior layout including a needed storage room, operating this business is getting very challenging. The use of the adjacent vacant alley to expand their building is unique to this property, which allows this building to be expanded for proper operation of the existing business. D. The variation will not alter the essential character of the locality, impair an adequate supply of light and air to adjacent property; not increase hazard from fire; not impair property values in the neighborhood; not unduly increase congestion in the streets, or otherwise impair public safety; health and convenience because: Approving and granting this variation for expansion of this building by adding a storage room at the rear of this building will not alter the essential character of the locality, or affect the adjacent properties, since the use will remain the same. The approval also will not affect the supply of light and air to the adjacent properties; increase hazard and fire, impair the property values in the neighborhood or increase congestion in the streets, or otherwise impair public safety; and convenience. Notification Legal Notice was published in the Daily Herald on February 25, 2025, a sign placed on the subject property, and notifications sent to property owners within a 250.0 foot radius of the subject property in advance of the Public Hearing. Staff Recommendation Village staff has reviewed the petition and is supportive of the request. Recommended Action To recommend approval of PZ-25-03 for a Variation from Table 3-2 of Article 3 Section 3.2. – Lot and Building Regulations of the Zoning Ordinance to reduce the minimum street side (north) setback requirement to 6.0 feet and to reduce the minimum interior side (south) setback requirement to 3.0 feet as depicted on Exhibit A for 749 N. Harvard Avenue. Exhibit List A. Site Plan 3 Page 7 of 71 4 Page 8 of 71 EXHIBIT A Page 9 of 71  Village of Villa Park Community & Economic Development 11 W Home Avenue, Villa Park, IL 60181 TO: Planning & Zoning Commission FROM: Community & Economic Development Department DATE: March 13, 2025 RE: Petition PZ-25-05 | Comprehensive Plan PETITIONER Village of Villa Park Marc McLaughlin, AICP, GISP - Director of Community & Economic Development 20 S Ardmore Avenue, Villa Park, IL 60181 Request Summary The Petitioner is requesting a Public Hearing to consider the recommendation of adoption of the Comprehensive Plan as defined in 65 ILCS 5/11-12-5 (1), to prepare and recommend to the corporate authorities a comprehensive plan for the present and future development or redevelopment of the municipality. Notification Legal Notice was published in the Daily Herald on February 20, 2025 in advance of the public hearing. Project Summary In 2023 the Village began the process of creating a new Comprehensive Plan, with the firm Houseal Lavigne and Associates (HLA). The planning process has been a 6-step adventure. First, the Kick-Off and Existing Conditions, which resulted in a memo presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission on February 8, 2024. Next, Public Engagement continued throughout the planning process, but most notable were the Business Workshop, Key Stakeholder Interviews, and Community Visioning Workshop. The third step was the Plan Visioning and Key Recommendations, which resulted in a memo presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission on June 13, 2024 and the Village Board on June 24, 2024. The fourth step was the Subarea Plans, which the boundaries were originally discussed in October 2023, but dialed in simultaneously with step 5 Draft Comprehensive Plan Elements. This was the first full rough draft of the plan which Staff reviewed in January 2025. The sixth and final step is Draft & Final Comprehensive Plan, which began February 13, 2025 with opening the Comprehensive Plan to public comments and hosting an Open House on February 26, 2025. The Comprehensive Plan drafted date 3- 5-2025 presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission has considered most of the public comments submitted online, the comments and notes from the Open House, additional Staff input, as well as, some Key Stakeholder feedback. This version is ready for a Public Hearing and has been vetted continuously. The Planning and Zoning Commission has the ability to make additional recommended changes, and the Village Board has final authority to adopt the Comprehensive Plan, which is tentatively scheduled for April 14, 2025. Staff Recommendation Village staff has reviewed the petition and is supportive of the request. Recommended Action To recommend adoption of PZ-25-05 for a Comprehensive Plan as outlined in Exhibit A. Exhibit List A. Villa Park Comprehensive Plan – draft date 3-5-2025 Page 10 of 71 2025 - 2045 | DRAFT 03/05/2025 DRAFT 03/05/2025 Page 11 of 71 Page 12 of 71  CHAPTERS 1 Introduction 4 2 Community Vision 10 3 Land Use and Development 12 4 Transportation and Mobility 38 5 Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure 46 6 Implementation 52 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS VILLAGE BOARD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION VILLA PARK COMMUNITY ■ Nick Cuzzone, President ■ Jason Jarrett, Chairperson A special thanks to all who participated in the ■ Hosanna Korynecky, Village Clerk ■ Larry Calvert Villa Park Comprehensive Plan process. This Plan was made possible by the contributions and ■ Carine Alfono, Trustee ■ Edward Hofstra insights of residents, business persons, property ■ Jorge Cordova, Trustee ■ Kenneth “Ken” Jackson owners, and representatives from various groups ■ Jack Corkery, Trustee ■ Michael Orlowski and organizations. ■ Deepasriya Kumar, Trustee ■ Eric Luedtke ■ John Kozar, Trustee ■ Louis LeMieux CONSULTANT TEAM ■ Kevin Patrick, Trustee ■ Dominick Romano ■ Justin Shlensky VILLAGE STAFF ■ Marc McLaughlin, AICP, GISP, Director of Community & Economic Development ■ Michelle House, AICP, Deputy Director of Community & Economic Development with technical ■ Rachel Leedom, Planner assistance from DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 3 For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 13 of 71  CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION WHAT IS A PURPOSE OF THE The Villa Park Comprehensive Plan will serve as a foundation for decision-making and help guide the COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COMPREHENSIVE Village as it implements the community’s vision and goals. This chapter explains the role of the The Illinois State Law 65 ILCS/11-12-5 allows Villa Park PLAN? Comprehensive Plan in shaping future growth and the power to formulate a Comprehensive Plan for both development, detailing its function as a guiding existing and future development or redevelopment. document for land use, transportation, and A Comprehensive Plan represents the Village’s official The Plan aims to steer decisions related to infrastructure decisions. Additionally, it provides a vision for the future, looking ahead to the next 20 development regulations, capital improvements, and snapshot of the community’s current conditions as it years. As a policy guide, the Comprehensive Plan other local policies and actions. It is a tool for the plans for the next 20 years. This understanding of the outlines specific actions to achieve the Village’s vision. community to help coordinate efforts and direct how Village’s needs and existing opportunities supported It is designed to serve as a foundation for decision- the Village may use its resources. The Village of Villa the foundation for Villa Park’s vision and goals. making for the Village, developers, residents, and Park adopted its current Comprehensive Plan in 2009, other stakeholders. a Comprehensive Plan should be updated every 10-20 years to ensure it remains a useful and relevant tool for guiding development and growth. 4 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Introduction For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 14 of 71 PLANNING PROCESS TASK 2: PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT TASK 4: SUBAREA PLANS TASK 5: DRAFT COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ELEMENTS The Village of Villa Park Comprehensive Plan is the result of a multi-step process that focused Public engagement involved several methods to gather input. An interactive project website was linked to the Village’s website, which featured an online The Comprehensive Plan includes six Subarea Plans, North Avenue Corridor, Uptown District, St. Charles Corridor, Old Town District, Historic Ardmore This task included the preparation of preliminary 1 Kick-0ff & Village-wide policies and recommendations for on community engagement, assessing current community survey and the map.social engagement District, and Roosevelt Road Corridor. During a the core elements of the Comprehensive Plan. Existing Conditions conditions, identifying opportunities and challenges, platform. Key stakeholder interviews, focus groups, working session with Village staff specific land use These elements, which included land use, housing, setting a vision, goals, and objectives, and creating 2 DIY workshop kits, a business community workshop, recommendations were developed for each area. The economic development, transportation, community planning recommendations and policies. The and a community visioning workshop were also used subarea plans provide detailed recommendations facilities, and public infrastructure, were based on the following is a summary of the Comprehensive Plan to collect feedback. Village staff, residents, business on land use, development sites, access and mobility, vision, goals, and key recommendations developed process: Public owners, managers, and other key stakeholders were parking, and other essential aspects in addition to earlier in the planning process. invited to participate in these outreach activities. conceptual plans and 3D visualizations. The Subarea Engagement TASK 1: KICK-OFF AND Plans were presented to the Planning and Zoning TASK 6: DRAFT AND FINAL EXISTING CONDITIONS To “kick off” the planning process, initial meetings TASK 3: PLAN VISIONING AND KEY RECOMMENDATIONS Commission and the Village Board. Based on their feedback, necessary adjustments were made before incorporating them into the Comprehensive Plan. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Following completion of the draft elements and 3 Plan Visioning & were held with Village staff, department heads, A Vision Statement and Goals for the Comprehensive incorporating feedback received during community Key Recommendations Planning and Zoning Commission, the Village Board, Plan were created based on community feedback outreach, the draft and final versions of the and elected officials. This task included an assessment and existing conditions analysis. This established Comprehensive Plan were prepared for review, of existing conditions and the preparation of an Existing Conditions Memo. Relevant past plans, policies, and reports were reviewed, along with an an overall vision for the future of Villa Park that formed the cornerstone of the planning process. This consideration, and adoption. The public reviewed the Draft Plan during an Open House. After receiving 4 task also included preparing preliminary land use feedback and holding discussions, a revised Subarea analysis of Villa Park’s demographic and economic recommendations to form the Village’s future land use version was presented to the Planning and Zoning Plans trends. Upon completion, the Existing Conditions map. This culminated in a memo that consisted of the Commission at a formal public hearing. Upon 5 Memorandum (ECM) was finalized and presented to vision, key recommendations, and future land use. approval from the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Village Board. the final version of the Comprehensive Plan was Draft presented for formal adoption by the Village Board. Comprehensive Plan Elements 6 Draft & Final Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 5 For Public Comment Introduction 03/05/2025 Page 15 of 71  USE OF THE PLAN FOUNDATION FOR THE REGULATORY FRAMEWORK PREPARE FOR FUTURE STUDIES The Plan establishes a path forward but cannot PLAN ORGANIZATION CORE ELEMENTS AND POLICY DIRECTION The Comprehensive Plan intends to be a document The Plan is a foundation for zoning regulations, the adequately address every issue faced by the Village. It Although the Comprehensive Plan includes six The Villa Park Comprehensive Plan is built around that is utilized by the Village, residents, developers, official zoning map, and other decisions governed by will serve as a tool to help identify additional studies chapters, it can be more broadly organized into four several core elements, each covered in dedicated and others. The Comprehensive Plan serves the these regulations . The Village should amend its rules and future action steps to address specific community sections: chapters. These include specific recommendations following key functions: to align with the Plan’s long-term goals. needs. for land use and development in the Village’s BASELINE UNDERSTANDING commercial and industrial areas, as well as residential COMMUNICATE THE COORDINATE INITIATIVES INFORM AND GUIDE A comprehensive understanding of Villa Park’s existing areas and neighborhoods. The Plan also addresses VILLAGE’S VISION The Plan informs and coordinates planning initiatives The Plan is beneficial for the Village Board, the conditions is essential for effective future planning. transportation and mobility, community facilities, infrastructure, and environmental considerations. The Plan is a powerful statement of the community’s that affect the Village at local, county, and regional Planning and Zoning Commission, other government The planning context and community engagement vision for how it will grow and change over the coming levels. The Plan may guide and inform efforts related committees, commissions, departments, elected form the foundation of these elements. These sections ■ Chapter 3: Land Use and Development years. It identifies the Village’s priorities and charts a to housing, transportation, transit, trails, natural officials, businesses, and residents. It should inform introduce the plan and are based on analyzing past ■ Chapter 4: Transportation & Mobility path for strategic growth, infill, and redevelopment. resources, economic development, and recreation. the community and provide vital information to guide planning efforts, market and demographic data, and public outreach. ■ Chapter 5: Community Facilities and Public future initiatives. The Plan is also a valuable marketing Infrastructure INFORM DEVELOPMENT tool to promote the community and highlight ■ Chapter 1: Introduction PROPOSALS IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN investment opportunities. The Plan serves as a long-term guide for evaluating LOOKING AHEAD TO THE FUTURE The Plan’s implementation strategy details specific public and private proposals that impact the The Plan’s Vision and Goals are both ambitious projects and actions needed to realize the vision, community’s physical, social, and economic and implementable. Along with the future land use goals, and recommendations outlined in the core environment. The Plan aids in assessing development map and general land use policies, they outline elements. It involves prioritizing actions, defining proposals to ensure they align with the Village’s long- the community’s goals over the next two decades, roles, and identifying potential funding sources for term objectives. providing the framework for recommendations and the Village and its departments, committees, and The Villa Park outreach policies in the core elements. stakeholders. process generated ■ Chapter 2: Community Vision ■ Chapter 6: Implementation significant participation. Look for quotes from the community throughout the Plan. 6 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Introduction For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 16 of 71  VILLA PARK 83 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VISIONING WORKSHOP ADDISON Senior v Villa A CRICKET CREEK Belden Av Housing TWIN LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVE PARKS Cana dian Natio nal/Il linois COMMUNITY ONLINE OUTREACH Centr Participants input included developing the Historic al Ra ilroa d Ardmore District, and diversifying business types OUTREACH Wildfire Dr The project website served as a central hub for the in the community and filling vacant buildings and 64 North Av online engagement process, providing access to an storefronts. Participants also highlighted workforce 64 online community questionnaire and the map.social, talent shortages and lack of jobs. Ston e Rd Schiller St 1 ELMHURST As part of the planning process, community outreach Better implemenation an online mapping tool. The questionnaire recorded Ridge Rd NORTH of code enforcement PARK Westmore Av was conducted to identify and address the issues and es S t input from residents on key topics such as housing, Jam NORTH FIRE TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY ELEMENTARY Sunset Dr opportunities most important to Villa Park residents, SCHOOL STATION 82 transportation, and more, with additional optional Av Infill housing Underpass local businesses, the development community, Village or Overpass WESTMORE rle Me PARK questions for the business community. Through map. Participants highlighted the need for improvements Plymouth St LOMBARD St Wisconsin Av Harvard Av Princeton Av uth Biermann Av Michigan Av Chatham Av Ellsworth Av Hamilton Av staff, and other key stakeholders. Public engagement Ply mo 2nd Av 3rd Av Iowa Av Yale Av Beverly Av Douglas Av Fulton Av Gerald Av social, stakeholders and residents were able to map around the train station and St. Charles Corridor, included both in-person and online outreach events. Vermont St out issues, opportunities, strengths, and assets across with opportunities for transit-oriented development Pleasant Av JEFFERSON MIDDLE SCHOOL 2 METRA The planning process incorporated 685 engagement STATION the area. The online outreach efforts resulted in a along the Uptown District. Concerns expressed during IOWA Mission Av Maple Av points through in-person and online community Lincoln Av COMMUNITY CENTER completed map showcasing location-specific insights e Av outreach efforts included the lack of overpasses or Terrac Pine St outreach tools and exercises. The map located to Division St and participant feedback. underpasses at train crossings, pedestrian safety, and NORTH TERRACE PARK Swimming Pool the right summarizes findings from the Visioning Improvements Revitalize Oak St Di vi traffic congestion. Respondents indicated support for Ardmore Rd FRANKLIN sio Villa Av Vacant buildings Addison Rd PARK n St Workshop held in February of 2024. OUTREACH TAKEAWAYS Elm St Summit Av d ilroa Wider sidewalks an alternative north-south route through Villa Park, n Pacif ic Ra and bike lanes Cornell Av Illinois Av Charles Av 83 Unio Holly Ct completing roadway projects, rethinking parking IN-PERSON OUTREACH The outreach feedback themes identified in this section were consistent across workshops, the online strategies, and enhancing streetscape beautification VILLAGE HALL St Charles Rd to boost the local economy. LION'S ROTARY To gather input for the Villa Park Comprehensive Plan PARK 3 PARK questionnaire, focus groups, and interviews. A broad GREAT WESTERN TRAIL Wildwood Av a series of workshops and stakeholder interviews were Kenilworth range of community-identified issues, opportunities, Av LOMBARD CORTESI Need better PARK conducted with Village staff, community members, PARKS AND RECREATION facilities 4 and priority projects shaped the Plan. These outreach and key stakeholders to identify community issues, lv d takeaways influenced the Comprehensive Plan. Participants supported the expansion of parks, Community School St gardens 5 Cen tral B Blvd opportunities, strengths, and assets in the Village. E PATH Park Astor Ct Unique PRAIRI Businesses Participants provided valuable insights on topics recreation, and natural resources, including extending Highland Av trails into community gardens and improving park such as governance, land use, business support, and HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS Interactive art Kingery Hwy community development. Additionally, stakeholder amenities and signage. Additional ideas included installations interviews were conducted to explore specific Participants emphasized need for the development of multi-family apartments near the Metra Station. installing park art, upgrading Cortesi Park, and Visioning Topics Woodrow Av topics in greater depth. The process culminated in increasing the use of the Ardmore Avenue Train Washington St Senior and adult living spaces, making the code Station. Housing/Residential Areas Monterey Av Riverside Dr Oakland Av a Community Visioning Workshop, which engaged Ardmore Rd Summit Av enforcement and permitting process more user- Eculid Av Villa Av Princeton Av Cornell Av Commercial and Industrial Areas Illinois Av Wisconsin Av Michigan Av Harvard Av Yale Av a broader group of residents and stakeholders friendly, and increasing allowable building heights Transportation to map Villa Park’s challenges and aspirations, to accommodate more housing and offering tax COMMUNITY FACILITIES Bike and Pedestrian Madison St ultimately shaping the Plan’s Vision, Goals, and incentives were also recommended. Parks, Open Space, and Natural Resources Participants suggested adding a senior center, a new Monroe St Grant Av Myrtle Av Recommendations. The complete list of in-person pool, and redeveloping the Iowa Center to support Community Facilities and Infrastructure Adams St outreach events is listed below: Ln SUGAR CREEK Sound community activities. They also supported improving COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL AREAS GOLF COURSE Cultural Resources and Community Assets Barriers rry Te Jackson St Dr lia ■ Village Department Heads Workshop Jefferson Park’s infrastructure, such as sewers and Ju JACKSON Other MIDDLE SCHOOL Van Buren St LUFKIN Van Buren St Participants mentioned that Villa Park has many sidewalks, and upgrading parks and recreational PARK ■ Planning and Zoning Commission Workshop services and goods that attract tourists from Context Congress St spaces. Leslie Ln ■ Business Workshop neighboring areas. Participants emphasized the Municipal Boundary Subarea Boundaries ISLAMIC FOUNDATION OF VILLA PARK WILLOWBROOK PARK Harrison St Lane Dr 83 1 North Avenue Corridor High Ridge Rd ■ Key Stakeholder Interviews importance of commercial development along the Old Railroad Wayside Dr Kolberg Ct 2 Uptown District Town District and revitalizing areas near the Uptown CULTURAL RESOURCES AND WILLOWBROOK 3 St. Charles Corridor ELMHURST HIGH SCHOOL ■ Community Visioning Workshop 4 Old Town District District while preserving the commercial character. COMMUNITY ASSETS WESTLANDS 5 Historic Ardmore District Riordan Rd PARK ■ Community Open House 6 Roosevelt Road Corridor Infill housing Renovate Participants recommended establishing a 6 FIRE STATION 81 POST OFFICE Post Office multicultural and art center to promote local creativity, 38 preserve the Old Town’s historical ambiance, Roosevelt Rd and ensure that new residential developments complement the existing neighborhood character. Canterbury Ln DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 7 For Public Comment Introduction 03/05/2025 OAKBROOK TERRACE Page 17 of 71 56  58 14 83 45 72 294 90 83 D U PAG E 90 COU N TY O'Hare REGIONAL SETTING PLANNING AREA International Airport The Villa Park Comprehensive Plan focuses on the 19 The Village of Villa Park, located about 20 miles west Village’s boundaries and selected unincorporated of Downtown Chicago in DuPage County, is home to areas, identifying issues and opportunities within this 22,755 residents. Neighboring communities include area and offering specific recommendations. Although CI TY OF Addison to the north, Elmhurst to the east, Oakbrook it considers the broader regional context of northeast Terrace to the south, and Lombard to the west. Villa Illinois, the Plan primarily concentrates on policies CH I CAG O Park is conveniently situated just 10 miles from and recommendations for areas within and directly 20 O’Hare Airport and 20 miles from Midway Airport. adjacent to Villa Park. 355 290 Often referred to as the Garden Village, Villa Park was originally planned to be a community that offered a Per Illinois statue, Villa Park is authorized to plan for suburban lifestyle with an emphasis on gardens and all areas within their municipal boundaries as well 64 green spaces. Villa Park boasts a proud history dating as land within their extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ). 64 64 back to the early 1800s when German immigrants The ETJ refers to a 1.5-mile area extending from the purchased farming land and settled in the area. Its rich municipal boundary. It excludes other incorporated 83 history, along with its strategic location near major communities, non-contiguous areas, and land claimed highways and transportation networks, makes Villa by other communities through a formal boundary Park an excellent residential community in the western agreement. All of Villa Park’s planning area extends suburbs. into its neighboring municipalities, making the Village a landlocked community restricted from outward 56 290 growth. Therefore, any future development will be 38 focused within the Village’s existing boundaries. 38 290 45 56 294 34 COOK 88 COU N TY 55 171 83 53 355 43 290 55 294 8 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Introduction For Public Comment WI L L 03/05/2025 20 COU N TY Page 18 of 71  71.4% White Gro 0 % wt 0.9 h 74.9% 37.1 Median age 4.2% live in Years in Villa Park single-dwelling detached Black or African American homes 2.7% Asian and Pacific Islander 7.1% 25.1% live in Some Other Race multi-dwelling units 14.1% Two or More Races PAST PLANS, STUDIES, DEMOGRAPHICS AGE RACE AND ETHNICITY HOUSEHOLDS AND REPORTS In 2023, the median age in Villa Park was 37.1 years, In Villa Park, the predominant racial group is White, Like DuPage County and Illinois, Villa Park’s housing Demographic data plays a crucial role in formulating younger than the county’s 40 years and the state’s making up 71.4% of the total population. The Black stock is predominantly owner-occupied and consists the Comprehensive Plan. Understanding Villa Park’s 38.9 years. Among Villa Park’s 22,456 residents, the or African American category represents 4.2% of the of single-dwelling homes. In the Village, 95% of As part of the Existing Conditions Memorandum, demographic profile enables the Village to address largest age group is 35-54, comprising 26.8% of the population, followed by the Asian or Pacific Islander housing units are occupied, aligning with the county a review was conducted of past plans and studies community needs, provide necessary services, and population. The age group 5-19 makes up 18.4% of category at 2.7%. Additionally, 7.1% of the population and slightly above the state average. Of these, 73.1% that have been adopted by the Village of Villa Park. predict future service demands more accurately. the population, reflecting established families. The identifies as Some Other Race, while 14.1% identify as are owner-occupied, while 26.9% are rented, mirroring These plans were summarized and relevant data, Demographic conditions were assessed using US 25-34 age group makes up 14.2% of the population, Two or More Races. county trends. Villa Park’s housing stock consists of information, and recommendations were pulled to Census Bureau’s American Community Survey data compared to 25.9% in the county and 26.8% in the 74.9% single-dwelling detached homes, exceeding the help the creation of the Comprehensive Plan. (2023 ACS 5-year estimates). The U.S. Census Bureau defines Hispanic or Latino state. Since 2010, the median age in Villa Park has county and state averages by almost 15% and 26%, decreased. In contrast, the median age of the county ethnicity as individuals of all races. In 2023, 25.8% of respectively. 23.2% of residents live in multi-dwelling ■ Villa Park Comprehensive Plan Update (2009) POPULATION and state has increased from 37.4 and 36.2 in 2010 to Villa Park’s population identified as Hispanic or Latino. buildings (two or more units), which is lower than the ■ Villa Park Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan That percentage is higher than the county 15.7% and 40 and 38.9, respectively. county’s 29.8% and the state’s 35.7%. (2018) Over the past three decades, Villa Park’s population the state 18.5%. ■ Villa Park Complete Streets Policy (2020) has remained stable, with a slight increase in the last ■ Villa Park Capital Improvement Plan (2021) decade. According to the 2023 American Community HOUSING VALUE Survey estimates, the population was 22,249 Since Villa Park’s housing values have increased since 2010, 2010, the Village’s population has grown by 0.9%, which aligns with county and state housing values. compared to a 1.7% increase in DuPage County, while Home values in Villa Park increased from $269,300 Illinois experienced a 0.4% population decline. in 2010 to $313,100 in 2023, a 16.3% increase. The county and state experienced increases from $316,900 and $202,500, reaching up to $374,910 (18.3%) and $250,500 (23.7%) in 2021, respectively. Housing cost burden is defined as a household paying more than 30% of its income on housing, with anything greater than 35% indicating a severe burden. Of the 8,841 occupied units in Villa Park, 24.2% of households are considered cost-burdened, with 16.2% being homeowners and 8.0% renters. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 9 For Public Comment Introduction 03/05/2025 Page 19 of 71  CHAPTER 2 COMMUNITY VISION The vision statement for Villa Park outlines the ideal The Vision Statement paints a picture of what the attributes of the village following the successful Village can achieve following the adoption of the execution of the Comprehensive Plan. It incorporates Comprehensive Plan. The Vision Statement is the feedback from the community and embodies the foundation for the Plan’s goals that are long term shared aspirations for Villa Park’s future. The vision targets that state what the community wants to statement reflects our community’s efforts and plans accomplish over the course of the plan. from a future perspective, offering insight into what Villa Park could look like 20 years from now. 10 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Community Vision For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 20 of 71 Vision Statement Goals Over the last century since its incorporation, the Village of Villa Park has LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT Facilitate land use and development patterns that allow the Village’s unique experienced growth within its population, economic base, and geographic aspects to flourish – with a range of complete neighborhoods, commercial size to become home to nearly 23,000. Over the coming decades, the Village districts, employment areas, and an emphasis on protecting Villa Park’s ‘Garden Village’ identity. will continue its tradition of providing high quality housing, commercial and retail areas, regional connectivity, municipal services, and amenities. HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS Encourage the strategic infill and development of complete neighborhoods that provide a variety of attainable housing choices for people in all stages of life – The Village will provide a range in its housing stock that welcomes and from youth to seniors, and from singles to families – and ensure access to key amenities, commercial areas, and personal services. attracts people in all stages of life, ensuring anyone can call Villa Park home. The Village will promote and support its commercial districts to ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT grow as regionally recognized activity centers, known for its year-round Stimulate economic growth by placing emphasis on new small businesses, job creation, and creating experiential corridors that focus on creating memorable activities, local businesses, diverse commercial offerings, and cultural and engaging customer experiences rather than just selling products. events. The Village will connect housing stock, commercial areas, and TRANSPORTATION local amenities through a multimodal network giving residents and Provide a safe and well-connected multimodal network that connects all areas visitors the option to comfortably walk, bike, drive or take transit. of Villa Park and major destinations beyond, accommodating all modes of travel including walking, biking, transit, and driving. Known as the “The Garden Village,” Villa Park will provide superb COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE recreational spaces, while strategically expanding offerings to ensure Provide facilities, services, and infrastructure that both meet the needs of current residents and lay the groundwork for potential residents through all residents have access to green space. Villa Park will offer a unique continued investment and planning. experience and sense of community for residents and visitors drawn to its picturesque neighborhoods, attractive retail areas, high quality parks and recreation, excellent school system, and diverse cultural offerings. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 11 For Public Comment Community Vision 03/05/2025 Page 21 of 71  CHAPTER 3 LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT LAND USE INFLUENCES EXISTING LAND USE Villa Park is a suburban community characterized by its unique blend of residential charm and regional appeal. The Village is characterized by mostly single- A review of existing land use was conducted to inform family homes, along with commercial and industrial The Future Land Use Plan establishes the framework the planning process and better understand the areas, and natural amenities. The Future Land Use for the use and development of land within the Village’s land use and development patterns. This Plan is designed to meet the community’s evolving Village and the adjacent unincorporated areas within review was guided by field reconnaissance, research, needs while preserving a balanced approach to the Village’s planning jurisdiction. A range of factors and available data. support future growth and demographic changes. The influence the Village’s development pattern, including existing land use, new development, demographic The Future Land Use Plan for Villa Park identifies Comprehensive Plan and its accompanying goals and trends, image and identity, and community input. preferred land use patterns within the Village, recommendations will help guide land use and policy maintaining existing land use configurations in several decisions, ensuring Villa Park reaches the aspirations This Future Land Use Plan aims to highlight the areas and identifying select areas for future growth. outlined within the vision statement. Village’s assets, leverage existing land use patterns, The Plan reflects the Village’s built-out status, and new and guide development and redevelopment to growth and development areas have been planned to maximize limited opportunities within the Village’s change, reorient, and maximize land use in the Village. built-out areas. This section provides long-term policies and recommendations to support high-quality residential, commercial, and mixed-use development, along with the protection and improvement of parks and open spaces in Villa Park. 12 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Land Use and Development For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 22 of 71 OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT EXPANSION IN UNINCORPORATED AREAS. DEVELOPMENT ALONG MAJOR ROADWAYS. The Union Pacific West Line serves Villa Park between Villa Park includes several unincorporated areas Three major Illinois State Highways bound Villa Park: IL The Future Land Use Plan for Villa Park identifies Ogilvie Transportation Center in Chicago and as within and adjacent to its boundaries that present 83 (Kingery Highway), IL 64 (North Avenue), and IL 38 preferred land use patterns within the Village, far west as Elburn, Illinois. Focusing on mixed-use, opportunities for strategic growth. Incorporating (Roosevelt Road), along with the local thoroughfare, maintaining existing land use configurations in several pedestrian friendly, and transit-oriented spaces close these areas, when and if appropriate, would increase St. Charles Road. These major thoroughfares connect areas and identifying select areas for future growth. to the Metra Station will encourage public transit the Village’s residential base, enhancing property the Village to broader metropolitan, regional, and usage and help support the local economy. The Village tax revenue. In some cases, annexation can address national interstate systems. Several underutilized DEVELOP AND REDEVELOP STRATEGICALLY should focus on establishing multi-dwelling units housing needs by expanding supply and offering and vacant parcels of land are located along these Due to the Village’s landlocked municipal boundary, near the Uptown District to promote transit-oriented diverse housing options, catering to household types important roadways, offering unique development it should develop and redevelop to ensure its neighborhoods and diversify the housing options and income levels. Additionally, annexation can opportunities. The Village should capitalize on neighborhoods, businesses, and employment areas available to residents. increase Villa Park’s population, attracting businesses the underutilized and vacant land along these are well designed, compatible, and economically and promoting economic development. major roadways by promoting and facilitating the sustainable. When development sites are available, development of large shopping centers, big-box retail the Village should work with property owners and stores, destination attractions, hotels, restaurants, and developers to ensure they contribute to the economy warehouses/distribution centers. This would leverage and meet the community’s needs. According to these arterials’ high traffic volumes and connectivity to community feedback, local unique commercial stimulate economic growth and enhance the Village’s development, multi-dwelling units, and mixed-use commercial appeal. options are desired. WHAT IS LAND USE PLANNING? Land use planning is the practice of strategically designating land use types to create desirable neighborhoods and communities. Local government’s create land use plans to guide desired development. Villa Park’s Future Land Use Plan predicts what the Village will look like if all the recommended policies from the Comprehensive Plan were implemented. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 13 For Public Comment Land Use and Development 03/05/2025 Page 23 of 71  FUTURE LAND SINGLE-DWELLING MULTI-DWELLING MIXED-USE LOCAL COMMERCIAL USE PLAN Single-dwelling residential areas are neighborhoods Multi-dwelling residential development refers Mixed-use areas combine distinct functions, such as Local commercial areas are designed to provide small- where each lot contains one dwelling unit, which to properties that accommodate multiple units offices, shops, and homes, within the same building or scale retail and services catering to nearby residents’ can be a standalone house or attached units like or households on a single lot. This can include development. These developments often have retail day-to-day needs. These areas typically include a The Future Land Use Plan is intended to guide future townhomes and duplexes. These areas encompass independent buildings comprised of condominiums stores and restaurants on the ground floor to create grocery store or restaurant and other smaller retailers, growth and development for the Village. The Future carefully planned subdivisions and older, established or apartments, structures within mixed-use an active and engaging pedestrian environment, such as gas stations, dry cleaners, convenience stores, Land Use Plan aims to improve the character and neighborhoods exhibiting classic neighborhood developments, or specialized housing for seniors. with residential or other service-based activities and banks. The Village should look to provide these quality of the Village’s residential neighborhoods, layouts. Single-dwelling homes are the most common Currently, such developments exist in various above. Mixed-use developments should be targeted daily necessities and services close to home as an enhance commercial and employment areas, and form of residential property in the Village and most locations throughout the Village. These types of near the Uptown District, along the St. Charles Road amenity for nearby residents and to reduces the need support a balanced approach to development. likely will remain so. developments should be prioritized in areas close to Corridor, and the Old Town District to increase density. to drive. transit options and commercial centers to facilitate Mixed-use areas provide more amenities and higher easy access to amenities and transportation, residential density than single-use areas while creating INTENT enhancing residents’ quality of life. a vibrant, safe, and attractive pedestrian environment. INTENT ■ Preserve the character of existing single-dwelling ■ Establish small-scale businesses that serve the residential neighborhoods. surrounding area primarily. ■ Allow a mix of single-dwelling housing typologies INTENT INTENT ■ Provide everyday shopping and service in a neighborhood, such as single-dwelling ■ Provide housing options for people of varying ■ Provide higher-density residential options. convenience. detached and attached homes, and townhomes. incomes and stages of life. ■ Allow for flexibility in type/size developments. ■ Allow for the use of accessory dwelling units. ■ Increase the housing density in key areas and ■ Maximize development potential. CORRIDOR COMMERCIAL corridors. Corridor commercial areas refer to commercial ■ Allow for live workspaces. ■ Serve as a transition between commercial and developments located along highways and major lower density residential areas. roadways. These developments are intended to serve the local population and those moving throughout the Village. These areas typically include retail and services that support nearby residential areas and big-box retailers. The Village should look to concentrate this use along Roosevelt Road and North Avenue. INTENT A lack of newer multi-family ■ Concentrate commercial developments along dwellings and senior major roadways. housing is a determent to ■ Accommodate various business and commercial the long term health of the uses, including national retailers. community. 14 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Land Use and Development For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 24 of 71  Cri cket Creek AD D I SON INDUSTRIAL PUBLIC AND SEMI-PUBLIC PARKS AND OPEN SPACES 64 The industrial category includes facilities that Public and semi-public areas include local Parks and open space areas encompass recreational 1 Sch i l l er St manufacture, store, and distribute products. government uses, municipal facilities, community and natural environments. The Village maintains Most of these uses have a minimal impact on the service providers, schools, and places of worship public parks that offer active and passive recreation Ri dg e Rd surrounding areas and are often clustered together. and assembly. Village Hall, the Villa Park Historical opportunities. Some notable parks are Willowbrook r LOM B AR D Su n s et D E L M H U RST The manufacturing-related uses are in the northern Society Museum, police station, fire stations, Villa Park Park, Prairie Path Park, Franklin Park, Lufkin Park, and part of the Village, particularly near the Canadian Library, churches, and schools are examples of public private open spaces within subdivisions. P l ym ou th St National railroad tracks should look to remain there. and semi-public functions within the Village. Several Verm on t St Additionally, appropriate screening and buffers should public and semi-public uses are located throughout INTENT P l ea sa n t Av be utilized. the Village, which are integrated into residential and 2 commercial areas. ■ Preserve open space and natural areas. D i vi si on St ■ Ensure continued access to recreational Cre e k INTENT opportunities. Ard m ore Av INTENT Ad d i son R d E l m St Sal t ■ Locate near transportation networks to minimize Vi l l a Av ■ Preserve natural assets for public and private use. 83 its negative impact on residential neighborhoods ■ Identify and preserve valuable facilities and institutions within the community. ■ Expand park offerings ■ Ensure light industrial uses contribute positively St. Ch 3 St. Chaarlrles es RRdd UTILITIES to the Village’s economic health. ■ Improve accessibility to and connectivity ■ Consolidate low-impact industrial uses in key between public and semi-public facilities. Future Land Use Ke n i l wo rth Av 4 Utilities include facilities that support transportation locations. Single-Dwelling systems, utilities, municipal infrastructure, and Village ■ Minimize conflict with adjacent non-industrial operations that are not generally accessible to the Multi-Dwelling Sch ool St Bv tr a l Cen uses. public. Water towers and substations fall under this 5 Mixed-Use Bv ■ Allow for incubator spaces. category. The purpose of these areas is to support P a rk H i g h l a n d Av M on terey Av Local Commercial services for Villa Park residents and businesses. E u cl i d Av H a rva rd Av Corn el l Av Corridor Commercial Industrial INTENT Wa sh i n g ton St Oa kl a n d Av P ri n ceton Av Su m m i t Av Wi scon si n Av Public and Semi Public ■ Maintain facilities and other infrastructure essential to the operation of the Village. Parks and Open Space M a d i son St Utilities Ad a m s St Subareas Ja cks on St Subarea Boundary Va n B u ren St 1 N o rth Aven u e Co rri d o r 2 H a rri son St U p to wn D i stri ct H i g h Ri d g e R d 3 St. Ch a rl es R oa d Co rri d o r 4 O l d To wn D i stri ct R i ord a n R d 5 H i sto ri c Ard m o re D i stri ct 6 R o o sevel t R oa d Co rri d o r 6 38 OAKB R OOK TE R R ACE DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 15 For Public Comment Land Use and Development 03/05/2025 Page 25 of 71  Cri cke t Cre e k AD D I SON HOUSING AREAS AND RESIDENTIAL GROWTH AND ENHANCEMENT UNINCORPORATED CAPTURE 64 1 These areas should focus on accommodating more These areas represent the housing captured due NEIGHBORHOODS Sch i l l er St housing where appropriate. With the potential for to the Village’s annexation of unincorporated land. The Ri dg mixed-use development and close access to public Village should leverage its resources to assess these e Rd r The Housing and Neighborhoods section provides spaces and shopping, this area is well-suited for additional neighborhoods, ensuring they are viable LOM B AR D s et D E L M H U RST Su n guidance on key issues impacting residential areas additional residential options. New development and attractive residential areas for years to come. P l ym ou th St of the Village. It highlights areas where investment should encourage walking and cycling. and prioritize opportunities and the maintenance of existing safe routes to schools. Verm on t St neighborhoods can ensure that the community MAINTAIN AND PRESERVE P l ea sa n t Av 2 meets growing demands. The section provides more A majority of Villa Park has well-established details on growth opportunities, offering specific MIXED-USE CORE neighborhoods with a mix of single-dwelling homes, D i vi si on St recommendations for preserving and enhancing Villa These areas of the Village have the most potential luxury residences, and some multi-dwelling housing. Cre e k Ard m ore Av for dense, mixed-use development. Building off the To enhance these areas, the Village should focus on Ad d i son R d Park’s neighborhoods. E l m St Sal t Vi l l a Av existing form along Ardmore Avenue and St. Charles public improvements like sidewalks, curbs, gutters, 83 HOUSING FRAMEWORK Road, the Village should utilize redevelopment and lighting while ensuring new construction and strategies to reimagine key areas of Villa Park. The renovations add additional value to the economic 3 St. Ch a rl es R d The Housing Framework focuses on the neighborhood Village should encourage mixed-use developments base. Introducing single-dwelling attached homes and residential areas within the Village. It supports combining multi-dwelling residential units with and multi-dwelling housing near parks, schools, and Housing and Neighborhood Ke n i l wo rth 4 Framework Av existing housing while looking to intensify slightly, commercial spaces. Additionally, focusing on adaptive community hubs could also meet growing demand where appropriate. reuse, infill of vacant parcels, and converting older and complement the neighborhood’s character. Residential Growth and Enhancement Sch ool St Bv tr a l buildings into mixed-use or residential spaces will Cen Mixed-Use Core 5 enhance these area’s vibrancy and strengthen both P a rk Bv H i g h l a n d Av housing and commercial options. Subarea Edge E u cl i d Av M on terey Av H a rva rd Av Corn el l Av Unincorporated Capture SUBAREA EDGE Single-Dwelling Wa sh i n g ton St Multi-Dwelling Oa kl a n d Av Su m m i t Av Currently, these areas are primarily comprised of Wi scon si n Av P ri n ceton Av single-family homes. As the subareas evolve, they Mixed-Use could also introduce a larger variety of housing. M a d i son St When redevelopment occurs, it should align with the character and style of nearby subareas and transition Subareas to Villa Parks’ well-established neighborhoods. Several Subarea Boundary Ad a m s St of these areas are unlikely to develop over the life 1 N o rth Aven u e Co rri d o r Ja cks on St of the plan; however, as development occurs, they 2 Va n B u ren St U p to wn D i stri ct should continue to adhere to the Village’s design guidelines. 3 St. Ch a rl es R oa d Co rri d o r H a rri son St H i g h Ri d g e R d 4 O l d To wn D i stri ct 5 H i sto ri c Ard m o re D i stri ct R i ord a n R d 6 R o o sevel t R oa d Co rri d o r 6 38 OAKB R OOK TE R R ACE 16 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Land Use and Development For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 26 of 71 EXPAND HOUSING OPTIONS RECOMMENDATIONS These types include townhomes, duplexes, triplexes, ■ Identify opportunities for infill development to and small apartment buildings. In addition to ■ Support developments integrating residential, introduce townhomes, duplexes, triplexes, and Expanding housing options focuses on increasing promoting affordability, walkability, and sustainability, small apartment buildings in strategic areas, retail, and office spaces along key corridors, housing diversity to meet the needs of residents at these housing options are suitable for a range of adding a range of housing choices that fill the particularly in Uptown and Historic Ardmore, to different stages of life and income levels. Although residents, in all stages of life. Expanding these options gap between single-dwelling homes and large offer ownership and rental housing options close single-dwelling homes are the most common type of across Villa Park’s neighborhoods will help the Village apartment complexes. to amenities and services. housing in Villa Park, the community has expressed a accommodate growth while preserving its unique ■ Promote the development of compact, higher- ■ Prioritize housing development in locations with need for a variety of types and rental options, mainly character and community feel. density senior housing along St. Charles Road, easy access to public transportation, shopping, along key corridors such as St. Charles Road, Ardmore providing convenient access to shopping, and community facilities to promote walkability Avenue, and in the Uptown and Historic Ardmore Paying more in housing may lead to difficulty services, and amenities. Locations along the and reduce vehicle reliance. Districts. The opportunities the Village could explore affording other necessities including food, clothing, include attainable and affordable housing, starter transportation, and healthcare. The Village has a corridor will allow seniors to walk to nearby ■ Work with the Illinois Housing Development homes for first-time buyers, senior-friendly units, notable housing cost burden disparity between shops, restaurants, and other destinations, Authority to provide tax credits and subsidies and mixed-use developments combining residential, homeowners and renters. Approximately 59.1% of fostering a more age-friendly, accessible to developers who build or renovate affordable retail, and office spaces. The landlocked nature of Villa homeowners are housing cost burdened while 40.9% community. housing units. Park makes context-sensitive urban infill with missing of renters are housing cost burdened. ■ Explore partnerships with DuPage Housing ■ Encourage universal design elements and middle typologies an ideal way to introduce housing Authority and DuPage Foundation, offering assistance programs to increase accessible types that offer an alternative to large apartment incentives that facilitate the development of housing options for residents of all ages and buildings and single-dwelling homes. affordable housing units and ensure access for abilities. low to moderate-income residents. LIVE WORK SPACES Live-work developments and spaces combine residential and non-residential uses and can include anything from a small home office to a large commercial space that is also used as a residence. Almost 1/4 of all Village households are Encouraging live-work spaces in key commercial considered cost-burdened. areas can support entrepreneurial endeavors, reduce vehicle miles traveled, and promote investment in small businesses. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 17 For Public Comment Land Use and Development 03/05/2025 Page 27 of 71  MAINTAIN NEIGHBORHOOD RECOMMENDATIONS PROMOTE HISTORIC RECOMMENDATIONS CHARACTER AND APPEAL ■ Continue to promote home renovation and upkeep to preserve neighborhood character, PRESERVATION ■ Promote adaptive reuse of historic structures to encourage revitalization and preserve Villa Park’s residential character is defined by its support housing quality, and maintain the appeal The Historical Preservation Commission advises the architectural significance, including mixed-use established single-dwelling neighborhoods, with of established neighborhoods. Village President and Board of Trustees on preserving options that maintain the character of older nearly 75% of the housing stock built before the sites and buildings with historical, community, or buildings. ■ Work with IDOT, DuPage County, and Public 1970s. The Village’s original lots were subdivided aesthetic value. Villa Park’s historic sites, featuring Works Department to prioritize infrastructure ■ Work with the Illinois Historical Preservation to accommodate more homes, driven mainly by its diverse architectural styles such as Prairie, Queen upgrades in mature neighborhoods, such as Agency and the Historical Preservation railroad connection and proximity to Chicago. While Anne, Arts and Crafts, Craftsman, Bungalow, English roads, sidewalks, and lighting, to support safety, Commission to maintain and update an much of the housing stock is aging, many homes have Tudor, and Spanish Revival, contribute to the Village’s accessibility, and neighborhood vitality. inventory of historic sites, protect significant been renovated, preserving their functionality and unique character and sense of place. ■ Actively engage with residents to educate buildings, and evaluate the potential for charm. Continued reinvestment will help sustain the them on the availability of programs, like the Notable landmarks include three 1860s farmhouses. creating historic districts. Village’s housing and maintain neighborhood appeal. With 40 locally recognized landmarks and multiple ■ Work with the Historical Preservation Infrastructure improvements and initiatives like the Illinois Housing Development Authority’s HISTORIC PRESERVATION AWARD PROGRAM Illinois Housing Development Authority’s Home Repair Strong Communities Program and DuPage sites listed on the National and State Registers of Commission on maintaining and updating an Historic Places, Villa Park fosters a connection to The Historical Preservation Commission honors and Community Revitalization Program and other County’s Neighborhood Revitalization, to inventory of historic sites and structures. its heritage. Preserving these sites would not only structures with historical significance through the related programs will support revitalization in these identify neighborhood revitalization and home ■ Partner with local organizations to offer enhance the quality of life but also increase the Historic Preservation Award in Villa Park. To qualify, a established neighborhoods and encourage home renovation efforts funding opportunities. incentives for homeowners to restore and Village’s appeal to residents and visitors. Protecting building must be at least 50 years old, have historical renovations. Additionally, if and when opportunities ■ Develop guidelines for infill development maintain historic homes, including grants like importance (such as a notable owner, architect, or arise for the consolidated development of multiple that ensures new development respects and historic resources also supports neighborhood the Illinois Historic Preservation Tax Credit revitalization and economic growth. Collaborating event), feature a defined architectural style, or be a single-dwelling unit lots, thoughtful infill could reinforces neighborhood character. Program (IL-HTC) or low-interest loans for kit home (Sears, Aladdin, etc). Nominations are open strengthen the Village’s long-term stability. with local and regional organizations to support preservation-focused renovations. ■ Create educational pamphlets, courses, or to all, but owner consent is required for the award. preservation efforts and promote adaptive reuse articles to educate residents about the benefits Awardees receive a plaque, which should be displayed within historic areas will help Villa Park strengthen and processes of home renovations, promoting prominently on the building’s exterior. neighborhood character and enhance the community-wide investment in the appearance community’s unique appeal, allowing the Village to and quality of their neighborhoods. maintain its historic legacy while accommodating ILLINOIS HISTORIC PRESERVATION AGENCY future development. The Illinois Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program (IL-HTC) provides a state income-tax credit equal to 25% of a project’s Qualified Rehabilitation Expenditures (QREs), not to exceed $3 million, to owners of certified historic structures who undertake certified rehabilitations. The substantial investments will create jobs in Illinois, stimulate local economies, and revitalize historic structures and neighborhoods. 18 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Land Use and Development For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 28 of 71 ENSURE HOUSING SUSTAINABILITY RECOMMENDATIONS STREAMLINING DEVELOPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS With housing areas as the most prevalent type of ■ Promote higher-density housing options in subarea districts and along St. Charles Road PROCESSES ■ Simplify code enforcement procedures to ensure clarity and accessibility for residents and property development in Villa Park, linking sustainability efforts Improving regulatory processes and strengthening to reduce car dependency and support public owners and to address community concerns with housing practices is essential. Reducing energy zoning and land use policies can assist in aligning transit and local businesses. about property upkeep and safety. use in new and existing homes can lower overall development with community needs. During consumption while promoting walkability and public ■ Provide resources or incentives for homeowners ■ Evaluate building height limits in key areas like outreach, residents highlighted the complexity of the transit use, which supports these goals. Additionally, to retrofit older homes with energy-efficient Subarea districts and corridors to expand housing permitting process and the need for more accessible increasing housing density in key areas like subarea features like improved insulation, energy-efficient options and enhance neighborhood appeal development guidelines. Community members also districts and along St. Charles Road could reduce windows, and modern heating systems. in response to community interest in diverse expressed concerns about the transparency of zoning car dependency and foster a cleaner and healthier ■ Identify vacant buildings that are structurally housing. changes. community. The Village should consider allowing the sound and suitable for conversion into housing ■ Strengthen property maintenance requirements adaptive reuse of vacant buildings that are in good or mixed-use spaces, reducing the need for new Simplifying the permitting process with digital in the Village to improve their appearance condition and repurposing them into functional construction and preserving resources. tools and clear guidelines can help residents and and address resident concerns about corridor spaces that align with sustainability goals and reduce ■ Encourage new housing developments to property owners navigate development requirements. aesthetics. the need for new construction. follow green building standards, such as Additionally, strengthening design guidelines ■ Encourage middle housing growth through LEED, to improve energy efficiency and reduce along key corridors will improve the visibility and targeted incentives like density bonuses and environmental impact. aesthetics of Villa Park’s business areas, enhancing the streamlined permitting for redevelopment community environment. ■ Consider updating zoning codes to allow higher-density housing and diverse types while considering incentives or requirements for including affordable housing in new developments. INFILL DEVELOPMENT Infill development offers a sustainable alternative to suburban sprawl by revitalizing underused or vacant We need to maintain land within Villa Park’s existing neighborhoods. Villa Park’s traditional neighborhoods are well- the quaint character of connected, with established streets and convenient our neighborhoods and access to nearby amenities located in and around the Prairie Path. Subarea districts and corridors. By integrating a mix of housing options into thoughtfully designed infill developments, Villa Park could become more vibrant and economically stable. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 19 For Public Comment Land Use and Development 03/05/2025 Page 29 of 71  Cri cket Creek AD D I SON ECONOMIC ST. CHARLES ROAD INFLUENCE ARDMORE AVENUE AREAS OF CHANGE St. Charles Road runs east to west through the Ardmore Avenue runs north south and crosses 64 DEVELOPMENT 1 center of Villa Park, providing ample commercial boundaries with five of the six distinct subareas. Sch i l l er St opportunities and hosting key government facilities. These areas present walkable, bike, and pedestrian- Ri dg e Rd The Village boasts regional corridors and areas With changing community needs and feedback friendly development opportunities with mixed-use r designated for manufacturing and industrial use, suggesting a shift from an auto-oriented corridor, options to help economic growth. By integrating these LOM B AR D Su n set D E L M H U RST which are anchors in its economic framework reestablishing this area as pedestrian- and bicycle- development components into the districts with a P l ym ou th St and development strategy. This section of the friendly with housing options could enhance its focus on accessibility and cohesive design, the Village Verm on t St Plan addresses these key elements, aiming to appeal. The Village should conduct a road diet, can create a connected and vibrant environment that P l ea sa n t Av optimize their integration and contribution to the enhance the streetscape, and transform St. Charles boosts its commercial appeal. 2 Village’s overall vitality and sustainability. It will be vital Road into a vibrant, multi-functional, complete street D i vi si on S t to work with the Economic Development Commission to create an inviting destination with retail, dining, given their role in serving as the centralized entertainment, and residential options catering to INVESTMENT AREAS Cre e k Ad d i son R d information source for all economic development diverse age groups. Most of Villa Park’s commercial areas were developed E l m St Ard m ore Sal t Vi l l a Av 83 activities within the Village. when planning dictated the segregation of uses, Av which has limited pedestrian connectivity between TRANSIT INFLUENCE St. Ch 3 St. Chaarlrles es RRdd ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT commercial centers and surrounding areas. As FRAMEWORK Villa Park residents and commuters use the Metra trends shift toward connectivity and walkability, Economic Development Ke n i l wor th 4 station to access regional destinations and daily these areas could benefit from strategic investments, Av The Economic Development Framework focuses on commutes conveniently. Despite substantial foot including façade upgrades, redevelopment, and Framework the commercialization and industrial areas within traffic, the area around the Metra station could benefit infrastructure enhancements, to improve their appeal Ardmore Avenue Areas of Change Sch ool St tr a l Bv Cen the Village. It supports existing businesses, attracts from a stronger sense of place and investment. The and accessibility. The Village should promote cohesive 5 Investment Areas Bv new businesses, diversifies the Village’s tax base, Village should collaborate with Metra to enhance the design, enhance pedestrian access, and promote P a rk H i g h l a n d Av M on terey Av St. Charles Road Influence H a rva rd Av and ensures that there are high-quality employment station area and create an inviting, well-designed revitalization in alignment with the Future Land Use Corn el l Av E u cl i d Av opportunities for its residents. space that meets commuters’ and visitors’ needs. Plan. Transit Influence The Village should also work with property owners Commercial Anchor Wa sh i n g ton St and developers to develop mixed-use and multi- Oa kl a n d Av COMMERCIAL ANCHORS Wi scon si n Av P ri n ceton Av dwelling development based on the Future Land Use Mixed-Use Su m m i t Villa Park’s regional commercial anchors attract Plan. Additionally, branding the area as the “Uptown Local Commercial Av visitors from neighboring communities for shopping, District” would establish a distinct identity, making it a M a d i son St Corridor Commercial dining, and entertainment, primarily along North vibrant destination within the Village. Avenue and Roosevelt Road. To maximize their appeal, Industrial More local Ad a m s St these centers should feature a mix of small and large establishments and Ja ck so n St commercial uses that draw regional customers while shopping near Subareas Va n B u ren St meeting local shopping needs. Although car access and ample parking are important, these areas should residential areas would Subarea Boundary also include pedestrian-friendly designs to create be amazing, especially 1 N o rth Aven u e Co rri d o r H a rri son St distinctive shopping destinations and generate with all of the 2 U p to wn D i stri ct H i g h Ri d g e R d significant sales tax revenue. bike paths 3 St. Ch a rl es R oa d Co rri d o r R i ord a n R d 4 O l d To wn D i stri ct 5 H i sto ri c Ard m o re D i stri ct 6 38 6 R o o sevel t R oa d Co rri d o r OAKB R OOK TE R R ACE 20 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Land Use and Development For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 30 of 71 ENHANCE COMMERCIAL AREAS IMPROVE INDUSTRIAL AREAS RECOMMENDATIONS ■ Identify and support high-value, long-standing businesses contributing to Villa Park’s unique ■ Establish clear guidelines for landscaping, Commercial corridors and districts anchor Villa character. Villa Park’s industrial areas, primarily located in fencing, or transitional spaces between industrial Park, supporting the local economy and providing the northern part of the Village near the Canadian ■ Identify and pursue opportunities for lot and residential zones to minimize noise, visual, residents and visitors with essential goods, services, National railroad tracks, play a crucial role in the local consolidation to enable more cohesive and and traffic impacts. and gathering spaces. Villa Park’s primary commercial economy. These sites are strategically positioned near impactful commercial redevelopment projects. ■ Support the creation of incubator spaces and corridors are North Avenue, St. Charles Road, and regional transportation networks to minimize impacts Roosevelt Road, which offer development and ■ Encourage incorporating public art, on nearby residential neighborhoods. However, some flexible-use buildings to attract startups and redevelopment opportunities, while Historic Ardmore, streetscaping, and placemaking elements within industrial areas border residential zones, which can small businesses, encouraging innovation and Old Town, and Uptown serve as neighborhood- commercial corridors to increase visual interest lead to conflicts that affect neighborhood character local job growth. focused districts. Revitalizing underutilized spaces, and create distinctive, attractive environments. and quality of life. Proper screening and buffering ■ Collaborate with DuPage County Economic supporting small businesses, and expanding dining, ■ Coordinate with Pace to improve access to bus of industrial uses can mitigate these issues and Development, the Chamber of Commerce, and retail, and entertainment options can address routes along major corridors, adding transit maintain compatibility between zones. Consolidating other agencies to attract businesses to Villa Park’s community demand for more restaurants and shops. shelters, signage, and real-time schedules to low-impact industrial uses in designated areas industrial area. Focusing redevelopment on sites suited to higher- encourage transit use. would contribute to a more cohesive industrial ■ Encourage sustainable practices among industrial density uses and incorporating Complete Streets ■ Work with Pace to improve routes to ensure the area. Additionally, partnering with the Chamber of users, including waste reduction, energy principles can improve safety, accessibility, and highest potential ridership. Commerce to market Villa Park as a destination for efficiency, and environmentally responsible walkability. By preserving valuable existing businesses incubators and flexible-use spaces could encourage landscaping, to reduce environmental impact. ■ As redevelopment opportunities arise, and strategically investing in these areas, Villa Park small business growth, foster innovation, and promote collaborate with developers to consolidate and can attract new businesses, strengthen its commercial job creation in the Village. relocate parking to the rear or side of the lot corridors, and support a vibrant, connected where feasible. community. ■ Encourage businesses to incorporate outdoor COMMERCIAL IMAGE seating or extend operating hours to increase foot The character of commercial areas forms the overall RECOMMENDATIONS traffic and enhance the vibrancy. image of a community. Commercial areas function ■ Encourage redevelopment that integrates as focal points of activity and are often what visitors see first and most often. Higher quality, attractive innovative concepts like experiential retail, Industrial businesses need entertainment, and residential uses to create commercial areas can foster greater economic to beautify their development by drawing new businesses and vibrant, multi-functional spaces that attract landscaping to appease customers. During public engagement, community residents and visitors alike. the nearby community members stressed the desire to improve the character ■ Continue implementing Complete Streets residential neighborhoods. of the Villa Park’s commercial areas, avoiding “cookie principles adopted in 2020 along key commercial cutter” development and strip malls that were corridors by adding pedestrian-friendly features monotonous in design. Instead, citizens aspired to see such as widened sidewalks, street lighting, bike shopping areas that were memorable and unique to lanes, and improved crosswalks to enhance Villa Park. safety and walkability. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 21 For Public Comment Land Use and Development 03/05/2025 Page 31 of 71  BRAND THE UPTOWN DISTRICT RECOMMENDATIONS ENCOURAGE A BUSINESS- RECOMMENDATIONS Villa Park offers several development incentive programs to support business growth and property Transit-oriented development (TOD) focuses on ■ Consider conducting TOD specific study for the Uptown District to examine ways to develop FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT improvements within its Tax Increment Financing (TIF) ■ Actively promote upscale dining and entertainment options along the corridor and creating lively, walkable communities centered around A business-friendly environment encourages districts. These programs provide matching grants to affordable housing near transit, improve districts to address the community needs and fill public transit areas. These areas encourage residential, businesses to establish, thrive, and expand within cover eligible expenses with reimbursements. The key economic development and ridership potential market gaps. commercial, and recreational uses and are easily the Village. Community feedback has highlighted the programs include: and enable mixed-use development near transit ■ Work with property owners and developers to accessible to transit stations. Villa Park’s Metra station impact of COVID-19 on small, locally-owned shops stations. ■ Façade Improvement Program – This program repurpose vacant spaces into vibrant dining and offers a prime opportunity that could catalyze growth and a strong demand for more dining options. While in the surrounding area. Multi-dwelling apartments ■ Continue pursuing development opportunities offers grants for exterior enhancements for retail locations. Offer tax incentives or reduced supporting existing businesses in expanding and and mixed-use developments near the station could for multi-dwelling apartments and mixed-use businesses along public roadways. Eligible permit fees for businesses that occupy and diversifying their base, attracting new establishments leverage transit access, offering convenient living buildings near the Metra station to create a more improvements include masonry, painting, renovate vacant storefronts along high-visibility is necessary to strengthen Villa Park’s economic vitality options and fostering a lively, walkable community. diverse, walkable, and commercial environment. storefront upgrades, signage and more. corridors. and tax base. To help local businesses, the Village can It could boost local businesses, ease traffic, and ■ Collaborate with Metra and Pace to enhance work with the Chamber of Commerce, DuPage County ■ Tenant Improvement Program – This program ■ Collaborate with the Villa Park Chamber promote sustainability by encouraging greater use of connectivity through improved transit schedules, Economic Development Alliance, and the Illinois is aimed at assisting restaurants, retail store of Commerce to provide resources and public transit. Collaborating with Metra and Pace to better access to regional transit routes, and Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. and entertainment venues that need interior workshops for small business owners, including increase connectivity could help transform this area convenient transfers. These partnerships can help develop emerging sectors upgrades. Eligible improvements include assistance with digital marketing and storefront into a dynamic and thriving district. Additionally, ■ Continue to invest in sidewalk improvements, and encourage future growth of businesses within the demolition, plumbing, electrical work, HVAC and improvements. branding this area as the “Uptown District” could crosswalks, lighting, and bike lanes to create a Village. Additionally, converting vacant spaces along similar improvements. ■ Partner with the DuPage County Economic create a strong sense of place, establishing it as a safe and welcoming pedestrian environment corridors into active businesses, restaurants, and ■ Site Improvement Program – This program Development Alliance and Illinois Department of unique and connected district. that supports a walkable community around the other commercial uses can further enhance Villa Park’s focuses on exterior site enhancements including Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to Metra station. economic landscape. parking lots, landscaping, sidewalks, and outdoor connect local businesses with grants, incentives, ■ Encourage green building practices and lighting. This is available to property owners and resources to facilitate economic growth. infrastructure, such as energy-efficient buildings within the TIF districts. ■ Work with the Chamber of Commerce to hold and rain gardens, to support sustainability within business roundtables for local business owners the Uptown District. to discuss challenges, opportunities, and ■ Brand the Metra station area as the “Uptown community needs with Village representatives. District “ to establish a recognizable identity and ■ Promote facade improvement grants to reinforce its role as a connected, vibrant center enhance the appearance of existing businesses, for Villa Park. particularly along major corridors and in the districts, to improve appeal and attract customers. 22 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Land Use and Development For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 32 of 71  Over 90 school d RELATIONSHIP TO SURROUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS SUPPORT WORKFORCE RECOMMENDATIONS NEIGHBORHOODS ■ Assess current parking demand and capacity in high-traffic areas, especially near commercial DEVELOPMENT ■ Partner with local businesses, especially in high- demand sectors, to prioritize hiring Villa Park Most workers in the Village commute from outside the anchors. Consider implementing digital tools for Villa Park is an employment hub in DuPage County, residents. Organize local job fairs and provide community, while many residents travel for their jobs. real-time parking availability to streamline access attracting workers from neighboring areas to fill local resources for job postings to connect residents 8,932 506 10,445 Only a small percentage of people live and work in and reduce overflow into residential streets. jobs, while many residents commute outside the with job opportunities. Villa Park. Unlike many traditional suburbs, the Village Village for work. Community feedback has revealed ■ Partner with Pace to increase bus routes and ■ Collaborate with the College of DuPage, Elmhurst functions as a small employment center, resulting concerns about a local skills gap and a lack of job service frequency to key employment hubs University, and workforce development programs in increased daytime population, traffic, parking opportunities that align with residents’ qualifications, within Villa Park. to offer training to address local skill gaps. demand, and infrastructure strain due to incoming causing many to seek employment elsewhere. By People are employed in Villa Park and live outside Villa Park commuters. The regional and neighborhood centers ■ Work with IDOT, and other relevant agencies to fostering partnerships with educational institutions ■ Work with local businesses and employers People live in Villa Park and are employed outside of Villa Park People live and are employed in Villa Park generate tax revenue, but they also bring more traffic improve sidewalks, bike lanes, and pedestrian and workforce development programs, Villa Park can to establish internship and apprenticeship Source: U.S Census Bureau, On the Map, 2022 to the Village. To address these unique challenges, pathways to encourage non-vehicular support targeted training, encourage local hiring, and programs for residents to gain relevant skills and Villa Park can enhance traffic management, improve commuting options and make it easier for build a pool of talent that meets local employers’ experience. parking infrastructure, and strengthen transit residents and commuters to access employment needs. This can reduce commute times, increase job ■ Continue coordinating with Northern Illinois connections working with Pace to balance its role with centers sustainably. retention, and contribute to economic stability within University to promote franchise opportunities in residential needs. ■ Work with DuPage Economic Development the Village. Villa Park. Alliance and DCEO to provide resources and tax ■ Work with the Chamber of Commerce and incentives to offer financial support for projects. other relevant organizations to offer workshops and upskilling opportunities to enhance PLACEMAKING residents’ skills to qualify for better local jobs. Placemaking helps define a community’s identity and contributes to a unique sense of place that differentiates it from other areas of town and the region. Placemaking combines branding, beautification, and functional infrastructure to create new draws to the community, encouraging formal and informal social interactions. Examples of placemaking efforts by the Village include banner signs, decorative streetlights, planters, and public art. The Village should continue these efforts to incorporate placemaking elements. Public gathering spaces such as plazas and parklets should be used in combination with decorative signage and lighting, seating areas, planters, and other beautification elements to create cohesive and inviting destinations. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 23 For Public Comment Land Use and Development 03/05/2025 Page 33 of 71  SUBAREAS STRUCTURE OF THE CHAPTER REDEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES CORRIDORS DISTRICTS AND CORRIDORS The subareas are divided into three districts and The chapter outlines the six distinct subareas each Subarea plans focus on specific areas of the Village accompanied by a vision, improvement framework, three corridors. The corridors span the length of OPPORTUNITY SITES NORTH AVENUE to address unique issues and opportunities and the Village and are often auto oriented, with many and opportunities for redevelopment. Additionally, The chapter identifies several redevelopment The North Avenue Corridor (Illinois Route 64) is a to identify site-specific recommendations and regional commercial uses. The districts are smaller, a catalyst site is identified providing an illustrative opportunity sites made up of vacant parcels, significant east-west road and State Route in the improvements. They offer clear directions on more pedestrian focused spaces that serve locals with 3D visualization that produces a sense of scale, underutilized properties, and/or surface parking northern area of Villa Park, stretching from the east to improving design, access, and evaluating opportunity smaller businesses. orientation, land use, and development character for lots where redevelopment would have a significant west municipal boundaries. The Illinois Department sites. A subarea plan encourages potential key portions of the subarea. positive effect on the appearance and functionality of Transportation classifies this area as a Strategic reinvestment, promote development, and establish IMPROVEMENT FRAMEWORK of the surrounding area. New development on these Regional Arterial. The Corridor mainly consists of or reinforce the character of a particular area. properties should be aligned with the recommended commercial properties but also includes residential, These plans are practical tools for shaping future The improvement framework provides a set of key improvements and recommendations that can be uses and character identified in the Land Use and light industrial, and vacant land. The Corridor development and reviewing proposals. Development chapter. emphasizes vehicular movement with some regional applied in the subareas. Aligning with community The Comprehensive Plan identifies six distinct input, the framework aims to improve the commercial commercial encompassing either side of the road. subareas within the community that warrant more vitality, preserve character, and enhance the appeal of CATALYST SITES detailed planning. These areas include the North the subareas. Catalyst sites are highlighted due to their significant Avenue Corridor, Uptown District, St. Charles Road impact within their respective corridor and district. Corridor, Old Town District, Historic Ardmore District, The illustrative visualization reimagines the sites and Roosevelt Road Corridor. These six subareas were selected as highly impactful development that could identified because they are most likely to evolve over serve as the catalyst for additional development the next 20 years. This chapter of the Plan provides within the subareas. detailed recommendations intended to help direct investment and redevelopment within these subareas. We need to add a combination of residential and commercial spaces, especially near Old Town 24 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Land Use and Development For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 34 of 71  AD D I SON 64 1 Sch i l l er St Ri dg e Rd LOM B AR D et D r E L M H U RST Su n s P l ym ou th St ST. CHARLES ROAD DISTRICTS HISTORIC ARDMORE P l ea sa n t Av Verm on t St The St. Charles Road Corridor serves as a major The Historic Ardmore District, established in 1910, is 2 east-west route through Villa Park and the western UPTOWN a unique area with a diverse set of land uses. It was suburbs. The proposed subarea spans from Westmore initially developed around the Ardmore Avenue train D i vi si on S t The Uptown District surrounds the only Metra station Avenue (west) to Salt Creek (east) and is home to station, which now houses the Chamber of Commerce Ad d i son R d in Villa Park, which serves the Union Pacific/West Line. Ard m ore various retailers, restaurants, and offices. Additionally, and is a key landmark in this district. It extends from E l m St Vi l l a Av The proposed subarea boundaries are Vermont Street 83 there are many inactive storefronts and a lack of Princeton Avenue (west) to School Street (north), Av (north) to Division Street (south) and Yale Avenue infrastructure to accommodate any form of movement Cornell Street (east), and Highland Avenue (south). It (west) to Douglas Avenue (east). The station and the 3 St. Ch a rl es R d other than vehicles. is divided by the Illinois Prairie Path, Park, and Central multifamily housing adjacent to it may present a Subareas Boulevard. The area includes offices, shops, and significant opportunity for additional transit-oriented Ke n i l wor th 4 taverns. Various community events are held within the Av ROOSEVELT ROAD development. district. Subarea Boundary Running along the southern edge of Villa Park, from the Sch ool St v 1 N o rth Aven u e Co rri d o r ra l B Ce n t eastern to western municipal limits, the Roosevelt Road OLD TOWN 5 Corridor (Illinois Route 38) hosts a wide range of major 2 U p to wn D i stri ct P a rk Bv H i g h l a n d Av The Old Town District, is a business district that stops M on terey Av retail options. The majority of Villa Park is situated north H a rva rd Av Corn el l Av E u cl i d Av short of St. Charles Road (north), Monterey Avenue 3 St. Ch a rl es R oa d Co rri d o r of the corridor, while Oak Brook Terrace is immediately (east), Myrtle Avenue (west), and Park Boulevard to the south. The corridor facilitates regional vehicular 4 O l d To wn D i stri ct (south). It features a mix of residential, commercial, Wa sh i n g ton St movement. Much of the commercial retail within the Oa kl a n d Av mixed-use, and institutional properties. There are H i sto ri c Ard m o re D i stri ct P ri n ceton Av 5 Wi scon si n Av subarea is big box and automobile oriented. Su m m i t good developments within this area which include 6 R o o sevel t R oa d Co rri d o r Av the transformation of the former Ovaltine factory into M a d i son St the thriving Ovaltine Court apartment complex. Such developments provide good momentum for an area that could potentially serve as a destination within the Ad a m s St Village. Ja ck so n St Va n B u ren St Encourage a more walkable community by H a rri son St building denser mixed-use H i g h Ri d g e R d housing near business districts at Villa Ave and R i ord a n R d Ardmore Ave 6 38 OAKB R OOK TE R R ACE DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 25 For Public Comment Land Use and Development 03/05/2025 Page 35 of 71  NORTH AVENUE CORRIDOR Ellsworth Av Purchase Land from Illinois Department The North Avenue Corridor aims to improve the State Route by inviting of Transportation (IDOT). These small Consolidation of Small Lots. Currently, there new and cohesive land uses at key opportunity sites, establishing urban portions of land fronting the southern blocks are several small parcels located along North design and placemaking improvements, annexing nearby areas, and Avenue. As the corridor develops, the Village of North Avenue are currently owned by IDOT. improving the commercial experience for both residents and those passing The Village should look to purchase these Sidney Ct should look to consolidate a number of these and repurpose how it sees fit. through. smaller parcels for a more cohesive development pattern. Adele Ct Harvard Av Yale Av Adele Av 3 North Av 2 1 Ardmore Av Ston Schiller St e Rd Villa Av Roy Dr Western Av 2nd Av 3rd St Hill St Lincoln Av Ridg e Rd Wisconsin Av Manor Ln Addison Av Michigan Av Iowa St Land Annexation. With so few opportunities to grow, the Village 64 should look to annex this land , Modernize Industrial Area. The areas when appropriate, and redevelop surrounding Stone Road and Ridge Road are given its proximity to North Avenue. home to industrial uses that are unsightly and Improvements noisy. Given the residential nearby it will be 83 Catalyst Site Pedestrian Crossing important to establish clear guidelines for Improvement landscaping, fencing, or transitional spaces. If Trail Connections. Given the proximity to the Model Block Billboard Removal there are opporuntites to introduce more Salt Creek Trail, the Village should look to add Redevelopment Opportunity additional connections to it from North Ave. Gateway Signage modern uses that should be welcomed. Parking Reduction and the surrounding area. Wayfinding Signage Streetscape Improvement Curb Cut Consolidation Trail Connections Site Access Improvement Screening and Buffering Land Annexation 38 26 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Land Use and Development For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 36 of 71 IMPROVEMENT PEDESTRIAN CROSSING IMPROVEMENT MODEL BLOCK APPROACH FRAMEWORK The model block represents a typical site configuration Pedestrian crossing improvements involve enhancing that can be replicated along a corridor. The model Parking the safety and accessibility of locations where block serves as a template for future development, Entrance PARKING REDUCTION pedestrians cross the streets. Improvements can establishing key elements of urban design and placemaking, sustainable economic growth, and safe include marked crosswalks, pedestrian signals, and Currently, the corridor is overparked, meaning refuge islands where people can stand safely. These transportation and mobility strategies. that there are more parking spaces than visitors at changes help keep all road users safe by giving REDEVELOPMENT any given time. It is recommended that the Village Plaza pedestrians clear and safe places to cross, reducing Parking promote the utilization of existing parking spaces conflict with vehicles, and making walking easier. Lot OPPORTUNITIES more effectively and explore outlot development The Village should work with IDOT to prioritize the opportunities. This would provide opportunity identified pedestrian improvements along the corridor Plaza for additional sales tax generating uses for the to improve users’ safety. Village. Though some landscape features currently exist, additional improvements including interior OPPORTUNITY SITE 1 Parking BILLBOARD REMOVAL Entrance landscaped islands, perimeter landscaping, and This site, located between Lincoln Avenue and Kramer decorative fencing should be incorporated to further Avenue, is currently home to a used car dealership, Too many billboards create a visually unappealing auto body repair shop, and a Sherman Williams. reduce its negative visual impact and screen it from corridor for those passing through. Additionally, there the right-of-way. This site could provide additional retail that is more are safety and environmental concerns, particularly experiential. around digital billboards. The Village should look to limit STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENT the amount of billboards around Villa Park, and remove OPPORTUNITY SITE 2 Commercial billboards along key corridors as they redevelop. Streetscape improvements enhance the aesthetic Office appeal of public streets and surrounding areas This site off of Addison Avenue could fit into through various improvements such as street trees, GATEWAY SIGNAGE the model block approach located along North Avenue. The model block is intended to serve as NORTH AVENUE MODEL BLOCK CATALYST SITE DEVELOPMENT INFORMATION decorative lighting, benches, art instal­lations, and Gateway signage serves as a welcoming entrance upgraded sidewalks. The goal is to create a more a flexible blueprint, establishing a visual concept marker to a community, district, or significant location. for transforming the corridor into a vibrant, well- Site: 125, 31, 35, 39 W North Ave, 735, 747, 747 N Yale pleasant and inviting environment that encourages The site should be developed as a commercial It typically features the name of the area, along functioning corridor. This site would be appropriate Ave pedestrian activity and improves overall quality of corridor featuring high-quality developments easily with thematic elements that reflect its identity and for a mixed-use development including first floor Lot Size: ~2.60 Acres life. Within the corridor, the Village should work to accessible to vehicles and pedestrians. Commercial character. The purpose of gateway signage is to create commercial use with office or residential use on the Future Land Use: Corridor Commercial integrate improvements along North Avenue to cater a businesses should be located along the site’s frontage a sense of arrival and distinc­tion, setting the tone for upper levels. It should have an appealing facade that Current Zoning District: C3 - Commercial, M-1 bit more to pedestrians than vehicles. to maximize visibility and convenience for visitors, the area and enhancing its visual appeal. Currently, encourages interactions along North Avenue. Industrial with office spaces positioned behind. The site should there is no indication to those moving along North SCREENING AND BUFFERING accommodate a mix of regional and national retailers Avenue that they are entering, or in, Villa Park. It is Buffering is used in areas of transition between recommended that the Village incorporates signage to OPPORTUNITY SITE 3 and businesses connected by shared parking areas. Parking lots should be well-landscaped and designed provide a sense of place on the corridor. This site, nestled between South Chatham Avenue and residential dwellings and adjacent commercial or with cross-access to enhance connectivity and reduce industrial developments. It can include landscaping, North Ellsworth, includes an aging used car dealership vehicular access points. fencing, distance, or sound barriers to mitigate noise, WAYFINDING SIGNAGE and a restaurant supply store. The site could transition into the residential nature to the north by providing visual disturbances, and other impacts. To enhance Wayfinding signage assists people in finding important the area’s appeal and reduce impact on neighbors, the Village a site for a multifamily development. community landmarks, while enhancing the the Village should work with property owners to streetscape. Like gateway features, wayfinding should strategically incorporate buffering along the corridor. consist of signage complemented by landscaping and lighting. The Village should establish design guidelines specifically tailored for wayfinding, signage placement, and directions given the amount of people traversing North Avenue. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 27 For Public Comment Land Use and Development 03/05/2025 Page 37 of 71  Cross Access and Curb Cut Reduction. Curb cuts ST. CHARLES ROAD CORRIDOR provide a transition between sidewalks and streets, typically for vehicle access to driveways or parking lots. Overusing curb cuts increases traffic congestion, reduces pedestrian safety, and creates a less attractive St. Charles Road Corridor’s lack of pedestrian pathways, minimal greenery, streetscape. A cross-access arrangement or agreement St Charles Road Diet. A road diet reduces and excessive driveway entrances highlight the need for holistic allows people or vehicles to move between two or redevelopment. It is intended to become a vibrant commercial area for the number of vehicular lanes on the road, more adjacent properties. Cross access will enable dining, shopping, and leisure activities. The redevelopment will prioritize a reallocating space for bicycle lanes, pedestrian drivers to shift between developments without using road diet on St. Charles Road to take back some of the space for vehicular areas, and green spaces to improve safety. the roadway. It improves accessibility by allowing traffic and make the area a more pedestrian friendly environment. Road diets would reduce traffic speeds, shared pathways between neighboring properties, accommodate alternative transport modes, enhancing traffic flow, and reducing detours through and foster healthier, more sustainable lifestyles public areas. This can increase interaction, simplify site in Villa Park and on St. Charles Road. access, and streamline space efficiency. Ardmore Av 3rd Av Villa Av Oakland Av Monterey Av Westmore Av Biermann Av Addison Av Wisconsin Av Michigan Av Harvard Av Princeton Av Cornell Av Illinois Av Charles Av Summit Av Euclid Av Pick Av 2nd Av Yale Av 1 3 2 Monterey Av Wildwood A v Kenilworth Av 64 Municipal Campus. The Village should work to create a municipal campus to provide an efficient delivery of services with departments Improvements located all within short distance of one 83 Catalyst Site Gateway Signage another. Opportunity Sites Wayfinding Signage Trail Connections. Given the proximity to the Streetscape Improvement Curb Cut Consolidation Great Western Trail, the Village should look to add additional connections to it from St. Landscaping Improvement Trail Connections Charles and the surrounding area. Pedestrian Crossing Municipal Campus Improvement 38 28 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Land Use and Development For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 38 of 71 IMPROVEMENT PEDESTRIAN CROSSING IMPROVEMENT REDEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK Pedestrian crossing improvements involve enhancing the safety and accessibility of locations where pedes­ OPPORTUNITIES Parking Lot STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENT OPPORTUNITY SITE 1 Commercial trians cross the streets. Improvements can include marked crosswalks, pedes­trian signals, and refuge Multi-dwelling Streetscape improvements enhance the aesthetic This site is currently home to auto-focused uses and islands where people can stand safely. These changes appeal of public streets and surrounding areas an underutilized surface lot. The Village could explore help keep all road users safe by giving pedestrians through various improvements such as street trees, a possible senior development given the need for clear and safe places to cross, reducing conflict with decorative lighting, benches, art instal­lations, and additional options for its aging population. Parking Public vehicles, and making walking easier. The Village Entrance upgraded sidewalks. The goal is to create a more Plaza should work to prioritize the identified pedestrian pleasant and inviting environment that encourages pedestrian activity and improves overall quality improvements along the corridor to improve users’ OPPORTUNITY SITE 2 safety. This site, currently taken up mostly by bus parking, of life. Within the corridor, the Village should work to integrate improvements along St. Charles Road can provide more focus for neighborhood scale GATEWAY SIGNAGE St. Charles Road has many driveways, to accompany the road diet to cater a bit more to commercial and mixed-use redevelopment along St. leading to frequent car crossings that Charles Road. could impact future bike lanes. Creating pedestrians than vehicles. Gateway signage serves as a welcoming entrance bike lanes will require reducing and consolidating these driveways as marker to a community, district, or significant location. OPPORTUNITY SITE 3 development occurs. The lanes should LANDSCAPING IMPROVEMENT It typically features the name of the area, along connect from the Great Western Trail in the west to the Salt Creek Trail/Prairie with thematic elements that reflect its identity and This site includes a motorcycle dealership with large Path in the east. A well-maintained landscape enhances a commercial character. The purpose of gateway signage is to create parking and connects with an opportunity site from property’s appeal and welcoming atmosphere, a sense of arrival and distinction, setting the tone the Old Town District. It could be redeveloped to drawing in potential customers and having a positive for the area and enhancing its visual appeal. While provide retail or larger scale mixed-use for nearby visual impact on surrounding areas. Perimeter the Village currently has a welcome sign off of Villa residents. landscaping should be designed to maximize stormwater management and improve water quality Avenue, it is recommended that it incorporates further MONTEREY GATEWAY CATALYST SITE DEVELOPMENT INFORMATION signage to provide clear directions and establish an Site: 501, 505, 511, 525, 543 E St. Charles Road, 6 S through the implementation of BMPs, such as This site at the entrance to Villa Park could serve as identity. Monterey Ave bioretention areas. Screening should also be used a gateway to the village. Mixed-use buildings with to enclose or conceal necessary, but unsightly, commercial and office spaces on the ground floor and Lot Size: ~ 3.50 Acres infrastrcuture. To improve the appearance of St. WAYFINDING SIGNAGE residential units above would maximize its location, Future Land Use: Mixed-Use Charles, the Village should work with property with retail along St. Charles Road and offices or addi- Current Zoning District: MX-3 - Mixed Use Corridor Wayfinding involves orienting oneself within an owners along the corridor to incorporate land­scaping environment using signage, which includes visual tional commercial spaces on the other streets. Two improvements to enhance the area’s visual appeal, elements like signs and symbols. It improves “L” shaped designs would position parking behind the particularly along the southern end of St. Charles orientation, provides clear guidance, and assists buildings, accessible from cross streets. A gateway fea- Road, west of Ardmore Avenue. As the area rede­ individuals in efficiently navigating complex spaces, ture at St. Charles Road and Monterey Avenue, along velops, the Village should continue to enforce its including cities, campuses, and buildings. Clear with quality architecture and landscaping, would zoning landscape standards. wayfinding signage can improve safety, reduce make this site a catalyst for future development along confusion, and create a smooth flow of people, the corridor.. thereby increasing accessibility and user-friendliness. As an entryway to the Village and a highly traversed corridor, it would benefit from establishing design guidelines specifically tailored for wayfinding, signage placement, and directions leading to key areas. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 29 For Public Comment Land Use and Development 03/05/2025 Page 39 of 71  ROOSEVELT ROAD CORRIDOR Roosevelt Road Corridor does not look to change the character of the area but rather make urban design and placemaking improvements to improve Catalyst Site Collaboration. The Village the experience of those within the corridor. It looks to promote more should work with Oakbrook Terrace to efficient site design and circulation and increasing the development redevelop the site for the benefit of both potential of existing commercial parcels. As the Village’s most heavily municipalities. traveled gateway from the west, it is important that the aesthetic of this section is enhanced, including landscaping, parking lot screening and greening, and improving key intersections. Villa Av Cornell Av Summit Av Euclid Av Oakland Av Monterey Av Ardmore Av 3 Roosevelt Rd Roosevelt Rd 1 2 Luther Av Wisconsin Av Michigan Av 3rd St Signage Reduction. While signage can provide clarity, too many creates clutter that is visually unappealing. The Village 13th St should look to reduce the amount of signage along the corridor. 64 Cross Access and Curb Cut Reduction. Curb cuts provide a transition between sidewalks and streets, Land Annexation. With so few typically for vehicle access to driveways or parking lots. opportunities to grow, the Village should Improvements Overusing curb cuts increases traffic congestion, look to annex this land and redevelop reduces pedestrian safety, and creates a less attractive 83 given its proximity to Roosevelt Road. Catalyst Site Sidewalk Gap streetscape. A cross-access arrangement or agreement Opportunity Sites Site Access Improvement allows people or vehicles to move between two or Parking Reduction Curb Cut Consolidation more adjacent properties. Cross access will enable Facade Improvement Land Annexation drivers to shift between developments without using the roadway. It improves accessibility by allowing Streetscape Improvement shared pathways between neighboring properties, Pedestrian Crossing enhancing traffic flow, and reducing detours through Improvement public areas. This can increase interaction, simplify site access, and streamline space efficiency. 38 30 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Land Use and Development For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 40 of 71 IMPROVEMENT PEDESTRIAN CROSSING IMPROVEMENT REDEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK OPPORTUNITIES Parking Pedestrian crossing improvements can include a Lot Pocket combination of physical infrastructure, on-street Park PARKING REDUCTION markings, signage, and lighting. An effective strategy OPPORTUNITY SITE 1 for improving conditions for pedestrians and bicyclists Currently, development along the corridor is This site is currently an auto repair shop. The Village outside intersections is installing pedestrian refuge overparked, meaning that there are more parking should look to create additional retail along the islands where possible. These islands help wide spaces than visitors at any given time. It is corridor that invites and keeps people within the roadways become safer and less intimidating for recommended that the Village promote the utilization Village. It could cater to those passing through on Parking non-drivers by providing mid-way landing areas that Lot of existing parking spaces more effectively and explore Roosevelt Road as well as residents living directly break up the crossing length. outlot development opportunities. This would provide south. opportunity for additional sales tax generating uses for the Village. SIDEWALK GAP OPPORTUNITY SITE 2 Parking Entrance The extension of sidewalks enhances community FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT This site is currently an auto repair shop and car rental safety and accessibility, reduces accidents, and spot. The Village should look to create additional retail encourages physical activity. Currently, there are Façade improvements refer to enhancements and to enhance the corridor and offer residents nearby several gaps in the sidewalk network within the Village. renovations to the exterior appearance of a building. somewhere to shop. To improve connectivity, it is recommended that the As the Village works towards becoming a destination, Village prioritize filling these gaps and ensuring ADA Commercial it should improve the appearance of this corridor to achieve a more cohesive community aesthetic, compliance. This would help foster a more pedestrian- OPPORTUNITY SITE 3 Office friendly environment and begin to shift the emphasis This site is currently a motel. The Village should look particularly between Michigan Avenue and Ardmore Multi-dwelling from cars to other modes of transportation. to create additional smaller, more local, commercial Avenue. This would help strengthen businesses, helping keep dollars in the local economy. to offer something different to the Villa Oaks Shopping SITE ACCESS IMPROVEMENT Center. EUCLID PLAZA AND RESIDENCES CATALYST SITE DEVELOPMENT INFORMATION STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENT Site: 0S741 Euclid Ave, 17W474 Roosevelt Road It is important for sites to have several points of The site offers an opportunity for two distinct Lot Size: ~3.50 Acres entry for improved flow and connection. There are developments. The front section could feature a Streetscape improvements enhance the aesthetic Future Land Use: Corridor Commercial businesses between Canterbury Lane and Roosevelt mixed-use building with commercial spaces on appeal of public streets and surrounding areas Current Zoning District: Oakbrook Terrace that can only be accessed through Roosevelt Road. the ground floor and offices above, complemented through various improvements such as street trees, The Village should look to attach additional access by parking accessible from Euclid Ave. The decorative lighting, benches, art instal­lations, and other section is designated for a standalone points along Canterbury Lane for improved flow. upgraded sidewalks. The goal is to create a more multifamily residential building. Parking for pleasant and inviting environment that encourages this building will be located on a first-floor pedestrian activity and improves overall quality of life. deck to improve convenience and maintain a Along the corridor, the Village should work to integrate clean streetscape. The front portion of the first floor will include amenities such as a gym and landscaping similar to portions of Roosevelt Road that indoor recreational areas for residents. Both run west through the community of Glen Ellyn and buildings should align with the height of existing Lombard. developments along the corridor and prioritize high-quality design using sustainable materials. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 31 For Public Comment Land Use and Development 03/05/2025 Page 41 of 71  UPTOWN DISTRICT The Uptown District looks to establish further residential, commercial, Vermont St and recreational development around Villa Park’s sole Metra Station. The goal is to create a dense, walkable, mixed-use development that enhances connectivity and revitalizes the area. Toolkit Improvements 1 Douglas Av Ardmore Av Cornell Av Princeton Av Chatham Av Catalyst Site Parking Reduction Opportunity Sites Gateway Signage Residential Growth and Wayfinding Signage 2 3 Enhancement Metra Station Streetscape Improvement Screening and Buffering Terrace St Yale Av 4 Maple St Ardmore Av Illinois Av Cornell Av Princeton Av 64 Metra Station. The Metra Station, operated by 83 Metra on the Union Pacific West Line, serves commuters in Villa Park. The Village should collaborate with Metra, Union Pacific, and nearby property owners to transform the station into a Potential Crossing Underpass/Overpass. vibrant mixed-use development utilizing vacant The Village should explore the feasibility of a parking lots and underused spaces. crossing underpass or overpass to address north-south traffic congestion during peak hours and train crossings. This effort should involve collaboration with the railroad, and property owners along the affected road segment. 38 32 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Land Use and Development For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 42 of 71 IMPROVEMENT PARKING REDUCTION REDEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK OPPORTUNITIES Currently, development around the Metra station is overparked, meaning that there are more Parking parking spaces than visitors at any given time. It is Lot RESIDENTIAL GROWTH recommended that the Village promote the utilization OPPORTUNITY SITE 1 AND ENHANCEMENT of existing parking spaces more effectively and explore This site is a laundromat with a parking lot facing the development opportunities that further activate the This area provides a growth opportunity for the Village, street. As this area transforms to be more pedestrian extra parking areas. This would provide opportunity given its proximity to the Metra. As development oriented, this site should redevelop with a friendlier for additional sales tax generating uses for the Parking occurs within the district, the Village should look to façade and welcome those coming on and off the Village. Though some landscape features currently Entrance add additional multifamily and single-family attached Metra. exist, additional improvements including interior options where appropriate. landscaped islands, perimeter landscaping, and decorative fencing should be incorporated to further OPPORTUNITY SITE 2 STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENT reduce its negative visual impact and screen it from This site is currently undeveloped but should reflect the right-of-way. transit-oriented development given its proximity to the Streetscape improvements enhance the aesthetic appeal of public streets and surrounding areas Metra. Its size, around 2.90 acres, and prime location through various improvements such as street trees, GATEWAY SIGNAGE makes it a priority site for the Village to develop. decorative lighting, benches, art installations, and Gateway signage serves as a welcoming entrance upgraded sidewalks. With the Metra being located in marker to a community, district, or significant location. OPPORTUNITY SITE 3 Commercial this district, the Village should be looking to create It typically features the name of the area, along with This site includes multiple large parking lots. It could a more pleasant and inviting environment that thematic elements that reflect its identity and char­ Multi-dwelling include other commercial, entertainment, or mixed- encourages pedestrian activity and improves overall acter. The purpose of gateway signage is to create a used developments with pedestrian amenities that tie quality of life. The Village should work to integrate sense of arrival and distinc­tion, setting the tone for the into the Metra. UPTOWN CORNER DEVELOPMENT CATALYST SITE DEVELOPMENT INFORMATION additional pedestrian amenities along Ardmore area and enhancing its visual appeal. The rebranding Avenue. of this area means additional signage should work to not only welcome those coming off the Metra to the OPPORTUNITY SITE 4 The catalyst site near the Metra station is an Site: 344, 348-356 N Ardmore Avenue Lot Size: ~0.6 Acres SCREENING AND BUFFERING Village but to the “Uptown District” as well. These multifamily structures should be renovated and opportunity for redevelopment due to its central Future Land Use: Mixed-Use redeveloped to accommodate more residents as this location and potential to enhance the area. The site Current Zoning District: MX1 - Commercial Buffering is used in areas of transition between residential dwellings and adjacent commercial or WAYFINDING SIGNAGE area welcomes additional people. should be transformed into a mixed-use building industrial developments. It can include landscaping, Wayfinding involves orienting oneself within an with commercial space on the ground floor facing fencing, distance, or sound barriers to mitigate noise, environment using signage, which includes visual Ardmore Avenue and residential apartments above. visual disturbances, and other impacts. To enhance elements like signs and symbols. It improves Parking should be located behind the building the district’s appeal the Village should work with orientation, provides clear guidance, and assists to maintain a clean streetscape. Commercial property owners to strategically incorporate buffering individuals in efficiently navigating complex spaces, space should include a grocery store and other along the rail line. including cities, campuses, and buildings. Clear essential shops to meet daily needs. Given its wayfinding signage can improve safety, reduce proximity to the Metra station, the development confusion, and create a smooth flow of people, could also include senior living options to provide thereby increasing accessibility and user-friendliness. convenient access to transportation and services. With many people entering and exiting the Village through the Metra, the Village would benefit from establishing design guidelines specifically tailored for wayfinding, signage placement, and directions leading to nearby destinations. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 33 For Public Comment Land Use and Development 03/05/2025 Page 43 of 71  OLD TOWN DISTRICT 1 Villa Park Recreation Center. Situated at the site of the The Old Town District aims to capitalize on its location along both the previously existing and outdated recreation center at Lions Prairie Path and the Great Western Trail to provide residents with Park in Villa Park, the Villa Park Recreation Center provides additional dining, shopping, and leisure activities. This would also benefit the community with a revitalized home for their community the many residents within the Ovaltine development and compliment the Villa Av Monterey Av new recreation center that is located nearby. The area will cater to events, programs and fitness all together in one location. pedestrians through additional streetscape amenities, outdoor gathering The nearly 38,000 SF community center includes a gym, areas, and well-designed facades. multi-purpose rooms, program rooms, teaching kitchen, fitness, dance, a running track and more including Oakland Av administrative office spaces and support spaces. 2 Toolkit Improvements Wildwood Av Catalyst Site Euclid Av Wildwood Av Opportunity Sites Streetscape Improvement Union Residential. Recently approved by Village Utilty Line Burial Board, Catalyst and Marquette are building a $50 Landscaping Improvement million, 238-unit residential complex called The Wayfinding Signage Union with 10,000 square feet of ground-floor retail or restaurant space at the corner of Villa and Gateway Signage Fairfield A East Wildwood Ave. v Facade Improvment Historic Asset Parklet Outdoor Dining. Taking advantage of the Union Residential foot traffic from additional development in Lions Park the district, the Village should work with Kenilwort businesses to offer outdoor dining along h Av Villa Avenue. Parklets. As a potential addition to the Prairie Path and the Great Western Trail, the Village should explore the possibility of developing parklets on smaller parcels or underutilized parking areas throughout the Myrtle Av district, as they become available and contingent on 64 private landowners choosing to sell portions or all of their property. Parklets should feature a distinctive design incorporating seating, greenery, and/or bike Park Blvd racks, helping to meet the demand for public space in vibrant neighborhood retail areas. vd al Bl 83 r Cent Monterey Av Oakland Av Park Blvd Villa Av Myrtle Av 38 34 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Land Use and Development For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 44 of 71 IMPROVEMENT WAYFINDING SIGNAGE REDEVELOPMENT Proposed Apartments FRAMEWORK OPPORTUNITIES Wayfinding involves orienting oneself within an The Great environment using signage, which includes visual Western Trail Recreational Area Villa Park Recreation Center elements like signs and symbols. Given the amount STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENT OPPORTUNITY SITE 1 borders the west side of the catalyst site. of destinations within the district, (Prairie Path, Great Western, Villa Park Historical Society, Union Streetscape improvements enhance the aesthetic This site, currently taken up mostly by underutilized Development, Villa Park Recreation Center, etc.) clear appeal of public streets and surrounding areas parking, should be redeveloped along with the wayfinding signage would improve safety, reduce through various improvements such as street trees, adjacent opportunity site on St. Charles Avenue. confusion, and create a smooth flow of people, decorative lighting, benches, art instal­lations, and The redevelopment of these sites should match the thereby increasing accessibility and user-friendliness. upgraded sidewalks. Within the district, the Village mixed-use nature of the rest of the district. should work to inte­grate additional pedestrian OLD TOWN GATEWAY SIGNAGE Entrance to the amenities given that both the Prairie Path and Great Western Trail run through the district. Gateway signage serves as a welcoming entrance OPPORTUNITY SITE 2 parking garage This site, currently home to several businesses, should marker to a community, district, or significant UTILITY LINE BURIAL be redeveloped to offer retail and commercial for the location. It typically features the name of the area, additional residents to be introduced through the along with thematic elements that reflect its identity Utility line burial refers to the practice of placing Union residential development. BMO Bank and character. The Old Town District is and will power lines, telecommunication cables, or other continue to a be a key area within the Village, so it is utility infrastructure underground rather than on recommended that it incorporates further signage to poles. Burying overhead wires enhances the overall Commercial provide clear directions and announce to residents aesthetics of an area by removing clutter from the about their arrival to the district. Multi-dwelling visual landscape. The roads, such as Villa Avenue, where overhead lines are should consider burying these lines during roadway projects to improve the FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT appearance and character of the district. Façade improvements refer to enhancements and OLD TOWN LOFTS ON VILLA CATALYST SITE DEVELOPMENT INFORMATION renovations to the exterior appearance of a building. Site: 54 S Villa Avenue, 22-44 S Villa Avenue LANDSCAPING IMPROVEMENT It is recom­mended that the Village encourage and The site next to the new Villa Park Recreation Center Lot Size: ~3.50 Acres incentivize these improvements along roads such as should feature a mixed-use building with ground- Future Land Use: Mixed-Use A well-maintained landscape enhances a commercial floor commercial space and residential units above. Current Zoning District: MXT -Transitional Villa Avenue to further add to the cohesive community property’s appeal and welcoming atmosphere, Ground-floor commercial space should activate Mix Office - Residential aesthetic being created within the district. drawing in potential customers and having a positive the streetscape, attract foot traffic, and provide visual impact on surrounding areas. Perimeter HISTORICAL ASSET amenities for residents and visitors. Parking should landscaping should be designed to maximize be integrated within the first two floors, with a stormwater management and improve water Historically or culturally significant structures or sites mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom quality through the implementation of BMPs, such are recognized and preserved as historic landmarks. apartments above. The design should include as bioretention areas. Screening should also be They benefit a place by attracting tourists, fostering recreational areas on the podium level to enhance used to enclose or conceal necessary, but unsightly a sense of identity and community pride, and residents’ quality of life. High-quality materials infrastructure. The Village should work with property contributing to economic development through and thoughtful design are essential to ensure the owners along Villa Avenue to incorporate land­scaping cultural and heritage tourism. Within the district, the building serves as an enduring neighborhood asset. improvements to enhance the area’s visual appeal. Villa Park Historical Society should continue to be As the area rede­velops, the Village should continue to preserved and promoted as an important historic site. enforce its zoning landscape standards. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 35 For Public Comment Land Use and Development 03/05/2025 Page 45 of 71  HISTORIC ARDMORE DISTRICT The Historic Ardmore District looks to build upon its quaint nature by continuing to add retail, pedestrian amenities, and placemaking improvements. Any additional commercial added will match the characteristics of those found along Park Boulevard and serve local residents, and those enjoying the Illinois Prairie Path. Toolkit Improvements Catalyst Site Landscaping Improvment National Park Designation. With multijurisdictional Opportunity Sites Gateway Signage support from DuPage County, the Historical Society, the School St Facade Improvement Wayfinding Signage Cornell Av State of Illinois and other relevant entities, Villa Park Parking Reduction Historic Asset should work to obtain a National Park Designation for the Prairie Path. Streetscape Improvement Parklet Ardmore Av Parklets. As a potential addition to the Prairie Path and the Great Western Trail, the Village should explore Princeton Av the possibility of developing parklets on smaller parcels or underutilized parking areas throughout the 1 d district, as they become available and contingent on ral Blv private landowners choosing to sell portions or all of Cent their property. Parklets should feature a distinctive design incorporating seating, greenery, and/or bike racks, helping to meet the demand for public space in vibrant neighborhood retail areas. 2 Blvd Park 64 Outdoor Dining. Taking advantage of the diagonal parking along Park Boulevard, the Village should work with businesses to offer outdoor dining in this quiet and quaint district. 83 3 Cornell Av Princeton Av Infill Development. Infill development is building on unused and underutilized land. Infill here would revitlize this unused parcel by offering an additional use in a heavily foot 38 trafficed area. 36 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Land Use and Development For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 46 of 71 IMPROVEMENT LANDSCAPING IMPROVEMENT HISTORICAL ASSET FRAMEWORK A well-maintained landscape enhances a commercial Historically or culturally significant structures or sites property’s appeal and welcoming atmosphere, are recognized and preserved as historic landmarks. drawing in potential customers and having a positive They benefit a place by attracting tourists, fostering ark Villa P ibrary FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT b li c L visual impact on surrounding areas. Perimeter a sense of identity and community pride, and P u landscaping should be designed to maximize contributing to economic development through Parking Façade improvements refer to enhancements and Entrance stormwater management and improve water cultural and heritage tourism. Additionally, they renovations to the exterior appearance of a building. t quality through the implementation of BMPs, such provide residents and visitors with information about ing Lo It is recom­mended that the Village encourage and Park as bioretention areas. Screening should also be the history and culture of the Village. The Ardmore ing incentivize these improvements along Park Boulevard used to enclose or conceal necessary, but unsightly Avenue Train Station should be preserved and Build sion g x t e n ist in and Central Boulevard to create a more appealing and E Ex ley infrastructure. To improve the appearance of the advertised as an asset to the Village and to the district. A l invite those on the Prairie Path to stop in. This would district, the Village should work with property owners REDEVELOPMENT help strengthen businesses, helping keep dollars in along Park Boulevard and Central Boulevard to the local economy. integrate landscaping to match the greenery running OPPORTUNITIES along the Prairie Path. th PARKING REDUCTION ra iri e Pa Currently, development within the district is GATEWAY SIGNAGE OPPORTUNITY SITE 1 i no isP overparked, meaning that there are more parking Ill Gateway signage serves as a welcoming entrance spaces than visitors at any given time. It is This site, currently composed entirely by parking, has marker to a community, district, or significant location. recommended that the Village promote the utilization the potential to be redeveloped into a neighborhood The purpose of gateway signage is to create a sense Commercial of existing parking spaces more effectively. This would commercial development featuring dining and of arrival and distinc­tion, setting the tone for the area Multi-dwelling provide opportunity for additional sales tax generating shopping options. The development would benefit and enhancing its visual appeal. The Village should uses for the Village. Though some landscape features from the inclusion of parklets or other public spaces look to add some signage to announce to those on the currently exist, additional improvements including at the front, along with adequate parking facilities to CENTRAL AND ARDMORE CATALYST SITE DEVELOPMENT INFORMATION Prairie Path that have arrived in the district and should interior landscaped islands, perimeter landscaping, serve the businesses. MIXED USE NODE stop to explore or enjoy the commercial and retail Site: 317 S Ardmore Avenue and decorative fencing should be incorporated to options. OPPORTUNITY SITE 2 further reduce its negative visual impact and screen it Lot Size: ~0.4 Acres from the right-of-way. The site, currently consisting of a underutilized Future Land Use: Mixed-Use WAYFINDING SIGNAGE This site, currently composed of Park Plaza, has the building and parking lot, presents an opportunity Current Zoning District: MX2 - Mixed Use potential to be redeveloped into a neighborhood STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENT Wayfinding involves orienting oneself within an environment using signage, which includes visual commercial development featuring retail options for adaptive reuse. The existing structure could accommodate two additional floors for residential Streetscape improvements enhance the aesthetic or become a mixed-use development similar to the units, with the ground floor designated for essential elements like signs and symbols. It improves appeal of public streets and surrounding areas buildings to the west of the site. services such as a grocery store, laundromat, orientation, provides clear guidance, and assists through various improvements such as street trees, bank, or café. The design should complement individuals in efficiently navigating complex spaces. decorative lighting, benches, art installations, and upgraded sidewalks. The goal is to create a more Clear wayfinding signage can improve safety, reduce OPPORTUNITY SITE 3 the surrounding architectural style and meet confusion, and create a smooth flow of people, high-quality standards. Incorporating thoughtful pleasant and inviting environment that encourages This site is currently an underutilized parking lot. Given thereby increasing accessibility and user-friendliness. landscaping and well-designed sidewalks will ensure pedestrian activity and improves overall quality of life. its location, the Village should look to redevelop this the space is both welcoming and accessible. Within district, the Village should work to integrate lot as a potential parklet or multifamily development pedestrian amenities for those on the Prairie Path to match the residential nature surrounding it. looking to stay and enjoy the district. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 37 For Public Comment Land Use and Development 03/05/2025 Page 47 of 71  CHAPTER 4 TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY ROADWAY NETWORK ROADWAY JURISDICTION A balanced, efficient, and well-connected transportation system provides access to goods, services, and community resources, and supports The roadways in Villa Park are controlled by several land use development through a variety of modes. Villa Park’s road network accommodates traffic jurisdictional entities such as IDOT, DuPage County, The transportation system in Villa Park consists of an circulation, maintains efficient connections between York Township and the Village. Most of the major integrated network of roadways, regional public transit local neighborhoods and commercial corridors, and travel arteries serving the Village are controlled by services, pedestrian facilities, and an emerging bicycle provides direct access to the regional arterial roadway IDOT, including North Avenue (IL Route 64), Kingery system. system. Its roadways are classified as either arterial Highway (IL Route 83), and Roosevelt Road (IL Route roads, collector roads, or local roads based on the 38). Villa Avenue (north of North Avenue) is under function that they serve and their capacity. The road the jurisdiction of Dupage County Department classification also indicates eligibility for certain of Transportation (DuDOT). The Village controls types of federal transportation funds. North Avenue the remaining roadways in the Village except for (IL 64), Roosevelt Road (IL 38), Kingery Highway (IL portions of Riordan Road, Cornell Avenue, Summit 83), and St. Charles Road are the Village’s primary Avenue, Euclid Avenue, Manor Lane, Hill Street, and arterial roadways with the highest volumes of traffic Villa Avenue that are under the jurisdiction of York through the Village. North Avenue, Roosevelt Road, Township. and Kingery Highway are also designated by Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) as Strategic Moving forward, the Village should continue to Regional Arterials, which have more stringent access partner with IDOT and DuDOT, and maintain close control and traffic signal spacing requirements. communication, to ensure appropriate maintenance and improvement of their roadways while supporting future development. Coordination with adjacent municipalities, such as Elmhurst, Lombard, Addison, and Oakbrook Terrace, that rely on these roadways is also important in addressing traffic flow concerns and organizing larger corridor safety projects. 38 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Transportation and Mobility For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 48 of 71  Cri cke t Cre e k AD D I SON FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION MAJOR ARTERIALS MINOR ARTERIALS 64 Major arterials provide a high degree of mobility and Minor arterials augment the major arterials by For planning and design purposes, roadways are function as the primary travel routes through urban accommodating somewhat shorter trips to and Sch i l l er classified in a hierarchical structure by function to St areas. These roadways are continuous and serve from residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, define their role in the transportation system and their Ri dge S a l t Cr e e k Rd the broader region, connecting the freeway system employment centers and recreational facilities at the eligibility for certain types of federal transportation r with the local system of minor arterials and collector community level. As such, operating speeds and road LOM B AR D Su n se tD E L M H U RST funds. Four general functional classifications are roads, as well as the major activity centers within a capacity may be less than that of the major arterials, typically used, including freeways, arterials, collectors, P l ym ou th St community. with less stringent controls on property access. Minor and local roads. Verm on t St arterials in Villa Park include Addison Road which In Villa Park there are three major arterials, North has a four-lane cross section and Villa Avenue and P l ea sa n t Av Arterials and collectors are commonly subdivided Avenue (IL Route 64), Kingery Highway (IL Route 83), Ardmore Avenue which have two-lane cross sections. into major and minor designations based on location, and Roosevelt Road (IL Route 38) and all three are part These roadways carry traffic volumes ranging from D i vi si on S t service function and design features such as right- 83 of the Strategic Regional Arterial (SRA) system. The 4,000 to 15,700 vehicles per day. of-way, road capacity, continuity within system, speed SRA system, developed by the Chicago Metropolitan Ad d i son R d Ard m ore Av E l m St limits, parking controls, and traffic signal spacing. Each roadway classification serves as a collecting / Agency for Planning (CMAP) and IDOT, is a network of Vi l l a Av distributing facility for the next higher classification in key roadways designed to support regional travel and COLLECTORS St. Ch a rl es R d serve as an alternative to expressways. Its purpose is The primary role of collectors is to collect and the system. The following summarizes the roadway to improve mobility, reduce congestion, and connect Roadway Classification functional classification system serving the Village of distribute traffic from local roads to arterials. major activity centers like jobs, shopping, and Collectors typically provide circulation that local Ke n i l wo rth Villa Park and describes these thoroughfares based on Av industrial areas across northeastern Illinois. All three roads could not. The amount of access provided by a Arterial Major their context and design features. roadways have six-lane cross-sections which run along connector depends on the purpose of the roadway. Arterial Minor Sch ool St tr a l Bv the north side, east side, and south sides of the Village, Collector roads consist of medium-capacity, medium Cen respectively. North Avenue carries an annual average Collector Major volume roads that have limited continuity and serve P a rk Bv H i g h l a n d Av daily traffic (AADT) volume of 44,400 vehicles, Kingery Collector Minor M on terey Av to distribute traffic between the higher-level arterials H a rva rd Av E u cl i d Av Corn el l Av Highway between North Avenue and Roosevelt Road and the lower-level local roads. Collectors typically carries an AADT volume between 49,200 and 62,900 operate with lower speeds than arterials and provide vehicles, and Roosevelt Road carries an AADT volumes some direct land access but to a more limited degree Wa sh i n g ton St Oa kl a n d Av Su m m i t Av between 36,900 and 43,800 vehicles. St. Charles Road Wi scon si n Av P ri n ceton Av than local roads. Collectors in Villa Park are two-lane as a major arterial roadway. St. Charles Road provides roadways and include Ardmore Avenue and High two travel lanes in each direction and carries an AADT Ridge Road. These roadways carry traffic volumes M a d i son St volume of 16,400 vehicles. ranging from 2,100 to 12,400 vehicles per day. Ad a m s St LOCAL ROADS Ja cks on St Local roads are the lowest level of the functional Va n B u ren St classification hierarchy. Local roads have fewer lanes and lower speeds to provide the greatest amount of H a rri son St access to surrounding land uses. Trip lengths on local H i g h Ri d g e R d roads are typically short and volumes and speeds are typically low. All remaining roadways in the Village not R i ord a n R d mentioned above are classified as local roads and are generally two-lane roadways with parking permitted on one or both sides. 38 OAKB R OOK TE R R ACE DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 39 For Public Comment Transportation and Mobility 03/05/2025 Page 49 of 71  ROADWAY CAPACITY NORTH AVENUE (IL ROUTE 64) ST. CHARLES ROAD However, congestion along the Village’s major arterial Redevelopment opportunities along IL Route 64 and IL roadway primarily occurs outside of the Village at Route 38 provide the ability to consolidate driveways IMPROVEMENTS the intersections of IL Route 64 with IL Route 83 and and direct parcel access to the cross streets/cross To reduce congestion and improve safety at the intersection of North Avenue (IL Route 64) with Villa The volume of traffic on St. Charles Road is consistent with a roadway segment that is a good candidate for The Village’s arterial and collector roads convey the IL Route 83 with St. Charles Road in Elmhurst, and access connections which would improve the flow of Avenue, IDOT and DuPage County have plans for the a road diet, which is a reduction of the roadway from highest volumes of traffic through the community and IL Route 38 with Westmore-Meyer Road in Lombard. traffic along these roadways. intersection to be upgraded to provide Smart Corridor its existing five lane cross section to a three lane- provide connections to the commercial and industrial The congestion at these intersections results in traffic The Union Pacific - West Metra commuter railway and improvements that will include signal modernization, cross section. However, capacity during peak periods areas of the Village along IL Route 64, IL Route 83 and utilizing Villa Avenue to access IL Route 64 and IL the Canadian National Railroad are significant barriers transit vehicle pre-emption, emergency vehicle may be affected depending on the characteristics IL Route 38 and the local commercial areas along St. Route 38 and adjacent neighborhoods resulting in to north-south vehicular travel within the Village of pre-emption, signal upgrades, sidewalk and ADA ramp specific to the corridor. A narrower roadway would Charles Road, Ardmore Avenue, and Villa Avenue. The congestion at both ends of the Villa Avenue corridor. Villa Park. However, most of the arterial and collector work, and pedestrian accommodations. create a calmer traffic environment for motorists and spacing between the north-south arterial and collector Due to the terminus of Villa Avenue at IL Route 38, roads are continuous roadways that penetrate pedestrians, would create for safer roadway crossings roads is one-half mile apart and spacing between the intersection of IL Route 38 with Summit Avenue these barriers and provide access to the adjoining for pedestrians and would allow for the provision of the primarily east-west arterial and collector roads ROOSEVELT ROAD (IL ROUTE 38) amenities for all modes of transportation including are one mile apart. Given the higher capacity cross- also experiences peak period congestion as Summit communities. Furthermore, the Illinois Prairie Path Avenue connects to IL Route 56, 22nd Street, and I-88 and the Great Western Trail are excellent public IDOT has planned roadway improvements for wider sidewalks, provision of on-street bicycle lanes, sections, excellent spacing, and the fact that the major Roosevelt Road between I-294 and Finley Road eastbound ramps to the south. amenities that provide long uninterrupted stretches and on-street parking. commercial and industrial areas located along IL that include pavement preservation and ADA Route 64, IL Route 83, and IL Route 38, these roadways of pedestrian/bicycle paths that minimize vehicle improvements along the corridor. The Village should In evaluating the feasibility of a St. Charles Road road appear to provide adequate capacity. conflicts. However, these paths/trails do provide coordinate with IDOT on these improvements on diet, consideration should be given to the numerous impediments to the local roadway system and the potential locations to close sidewalk gaps and curb-cuts located on the roadway, the diversion ability for continuous local, north-south streets within enhance pedestrian facilities at intersections along of traffic to other east-west roadways including the Village. the corridor. As infill sites become developed or with Vermont Street, Elm Street, Washington Street and the redevelopment of parcels along the Roosevelt Maddison Street, the classification of vehicles utilizing Road corridor, coordination with IDOT should occur to the roadway, and the operations of the signalized minimize the number of curb cuts along the corridor intersections of St. Charles Road with Villa Avenue, increasing the progression of vehicle traffic and Ardmore Avenue, and Addison Road. Our experience has been that limiting the pedestrian crossing locations. a lot of our sidewalks in Villa Park have many major cracks and ridges in them, making it difficult for us to push our stroller or pull a wagon down them. 40 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Transportation and Mobility For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 50 of 71  Cri cke t Cre e k AD D I SON ROADWAY CONTINUITY AND TRAFFIC CONTROLS RECOMMENDATIONS ■ ■ CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS There are 14 traffic signal-controlled intersections ■ Continue to maintain close communication with 64 The 2009 Village Comprehensive Plan identified but in the Village, of which 11 are located on arterial IDOT and DuPage County to ensure appropriate Sch i l l er St did not incorporate several roadway connections/ roadways under IDOT control. The remaining three maintenance and improvement of their roadways Ri dge S a l t Cr e e k Rd enhancement options to improve north-south travel signals are located along St. Charles Road at its while supporting future development and r through the Village’s major barriers. These include intersections with Villa Avenue, Ardmore Avenue, and multimodal connectivity. LOM B AR D Su n se tD E L M H U RST the creation of an under/overpass for the Addison Addison Road, which are under Village control. All ■ Consolidate curb cuts along the Village’s arterial P l ym ou th St Road intersection with the Metra commuter railway, other intersections in the Village are generally under and collector roadways, and encourage cross Verm on t St the extension of Summit Avenue across the Metra stop control. access between parcels as opportunities arise, to P l ea sa n t Av commuter railway to connect to Ellsworth Avenue, reduce conflict points and congestion. IDOT has implemented coordinated traffic signal and the extension of Summit Avenue across the Great ■ Evaluate the feasibility of an Ardmore Avenue systems across the state. These systems aim to D i vi si on S t Western Trail to connect to St. Charles Road. grade separated intersection with the Metra 83 optimize traffic flow by synchronizing traffic signals along major corridors, reducing delays and improving commuter railway. Evaluate the feasibility of a Ad d i son R d The extension of Summit Avenue across the Metra Ard m ore Av E l m St St. Charles Road diet to foster amenities for all commuter railway would enhance access to the Villa efficiency. The intersections of Westmore Avenue, Vi l l a Av Addison Road, Michigan Avenue, and Ardmore Avenue modes of transportation. Park Metra station and would provide connectivity between the residential neighborhoods on either side along IL Route 64 are part of an eight-signal IDOT ■ Regularly review traffic volumes and speeds St. Ch a rl es R d of the railway. Providing an Ardmore Avenue under/ coordinated traffic signal system that extends west along collectors and local roadways to identify over pass would fill a gap in the grade separated rail into the Village of Lombard. The intersection of Villa problem areas and address shifts in how drivers Roadway Improvements Ke n i l wo rth Av crossings for the Village with the nearest locations Avenue with IL Route 64 is part of an eight-signal IDOT move through the community over time. Grade Separation being IL Route 83 to the east and Main Street in coordinated traffic signal system that extends east into ■ Use traffic calming best practices to promote safe Sch ool St Intersection Modernization tr a l Bv Lombard to the west. However, given the four-lane the City of Elmhurst and includes the intersection of IL and efficient streets Village-wide. Cen cross section of Ardmore Avenue, the provision of a Route 64 with IL Route 83. The intersection of IL Route Road Extensions Bv ■ Coordinate with adjacent municipalities to P a rk H i g h l a n d Av grade separated crossing might result in increased 83 with Riverside Drive/Frontage Road is part of a M on terey Av address traffic flow concerns and organize larger Evaluate for Road Diet H a rva rd Av E u cl i d Av Corn el l Av daily traffic volumes on the roadway by capturing 14-signal IDOT coordinated traffic control system that corridor safety projects. Roadway Pavement traffic on other north-south roadways or by diverting includes the intersections of St. Charles Road with IL ■ Improve streetscape design standards to beautify Improvements traffic on St. Charles Road to North Avenue via Route 83, Villa Avenue, Ardmore Avenue, and Addison Wa sh i n g ton St the public realm along the Village’s highly visible Oa kl a n d Av Su m m i t Av Road. The intersections of IL Route 38 with Villa P ri n ceton Av Ardmore Avenue. As such, the grade separation of Wi scon si n Av Oakes Shopping Center, Ardmore Avenue, Courtyard corridors. Ardmore Avenue should be considered as part of the evaluation of the St. Charles Road diet. Shopping Center, Summit Avenue, and Villa Avenue M a d i son St are part of a 12-signal IDOT coordinated traffic control system that extends west to Finley Road. Ad a m s St Ja cks on St Va n B u ren St H a rri son St H i g h Ri d g e R d R i ord a n R d 38 OAKB R OOK TE R R ACE DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 41 For Public Comment Transportation and Mobility 03/05/2025 Page 51 of 71  Cri cke t Cre e k AD D I SON ACTIVE PEDESTRIAN AMENITIES Several gaps in the residential sidewalk are present in the following areas: TRANSPORTATION Pedestrians are sensitive to the character, safety and ■ In the southeast corner of the Village in the convenience of their surroundings when choosing 64 area bounded by Ardmore Avenue on the west, where and how far they feel comfortable walking. Sch i l l er St Communities strive to develop a comprehensive Roosevelt Road on the south, Jackson Street/ Streetscape amenities can make walking a more bicycle and pedestrian system to promote mobility Vanburen Street on the north and Summit Ave on Ridge Rd attractive and inviting option and can include features by non-auto means and to encourage an active, the West. This extends into unincorporated areas LOM B AR D se t Dr Cre e k E L M H U RST such as pedestrian-scale lighting, benches, trash cans, Su n healthy lifestyle. The pedestrian system in the Village of the Village as well. Sal t trees and plantings, and public art, among others. P l ym ou th St is extensive and consists of sidewalks along both sides ■ On residential roadways and near commercial These amenities are most effectively used in areas of most of the roadways within the Village. However, areas north of Plymouth Street, between with higher pedestrian traffic such as commercial Verm on t St sidewalk gaps do exist within the residential portions P l e a s a n t Av Biermann Avenue and Villa Avenue. corridors. The Village should seek to improve 83 of the Village. The Village has three regional trails, ■ On the south side of Kenilworth Avenue, between streetscape design standards to beautify the public additional upgrades to the bicycle system are in the Myrtle Street and Addison Avenue. realm along its highly visible corridors. D i vi si on St development stages and is currently limited to three ■ The roadway segment of Cornell Avenue between Ard m ore Av existing off-street paths/trails within the Village’s green The Villa Park Capital Improvement Plan (2022-2026) Ad d i son R d E l m St space. Jackson Street and Harrison Street. identifies a series of roadway, trail, and pedestrian The Village should continue to maintain and repair the facility improvements to enhance transportation Vi l l a Av PEDESTRIAN SYSTEM GAPS St. Ch a rl es R d pedestrian infrastructure as part of its annual Capital conditions within the Village. Most of these projects Improvement Program and pursue opportunities consist of pavement rehabilitation and replacement The arterial and collector roadways provide the most to close the gaps in the system. Some of these may on various roadway segments. Some of the notable Sidewalk System Ke n i l wo rth Av direct pedestrian connections to Village’s commercial require collaboration with residents and private projects include ADA Sidewalk Improvements, Existing Sidewalks areas, civic facilities, parks, forest preserves, schools, property owners for both public rights-of-way and Sidewalk Improvement Program, and the Great and public transit stops. Gaps in the pedestrian system Sidewalk Gaps Sch ool St tr a l Bv easements or other governing entities, including IDOT, Western Trail Lighting Expansion Project along Ce n on these roadways limit this convenience and reduce DuPage County, York Township, and the adjoining Harvard Avenue to village limits on the west. P a rk Bv the safety of the system. Notable gaps are present H i g h l a n d Av municipalities. The Village’s Bicycle and Pedestrian M on terey Av along portions of the north side of Roosevelt Road and H a rva rd Av along the south side of North Avenue. Master Plan identifies several improvements to the Village’s sidewalk network and pedestrian crossing PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS Corn el l Av E u cl i d Av The Village’s arterial roadways can be barriers to Wa sh i n g ton St The lack of sidewalks in residential neighborhoods facilities including: pedestrian travel due to the width of the roadway, high Oa kl a n d Av P ri n ceton Av Su m m i t Av Wi scon si n Av can constrain local mobility and access to the broader ■ Fill in the gaps in the sidewalk network. volumes of traffic, and traffic speeds. The signalized pedestrian system although new sidewalk installations ■ Repair or replace cracked, uneven, and broken intersections along these roadways are the safest may not be feasible or necessary in some of the M a d i son St sidewalks. locations for pedestrians and bicyclists to cross the Village’s neighborhoods where traffic is calm and it is road, and many have been upgraded with pedestrian safe and appropriate to walk on the roadway shoulder. ■ Identify ways to improve pedestrian scale lighting enhancements including pedestrian signals, Ad a m s St The majority of local roadways in the Village have on local roadways. countdown timers, high-visibility “ladder-style” Ja cks on St sidewalks on one or both sides of the road. ■ Improve the pedestrian experience on St. Charles crosswalks, and ADA-compliant curb ramps. Va n B u ren St Road by widening the existing sidewalk, improve the existing signalized intersection crossings, The signalized intersections along the Village’s arterial H a rri son St identify locations for additional pedestrian and roadways are the safest locations for pedestrians and H igh bicycle crossing locations. bicyclists to cross the road. Twelve of the fourteen Ridge Rd ■ Enhance pedestrian facilities at railroad signal-controlled intersections in the Village have crossings. crosswalks on at least one approach with pedestrian R i ord a n R d signals and curb ramps. The remaining two signals are ■ Improve pedestrian experience on Roosevelt along Roosevelt Road at the signalized access drives Road. of the Villa Oaks Shopping Center and the Courtyard ■ Provide a sidewalk connection to Walmart. Shopping Center. 38 OAKB R OOK TE R R ACE 42 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Transportation and Mobility For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 52 of 71  Cri cke t Cre e k AD D I SON OFF-STREET BICYCLE RECOMMENDATIONS Additional pedestrian amenities including ADA ramps and high-visibility, continental crosswalks are provided at many other high pedestrian intersections FACILITIES AND TRAILS ■ Continue to develop an active transportation within the Village. These additional amenities are The off-street bicycle network in Villa Park is currently system that incorporates interconnected paths, 64 generally located with proximity to schools, parks, limited to three multi-use paths including the Illinois sidewalks, and on-street bikeways, as guided by Sch i l l er St public open spaces, and at other key intersections. Prairie Path, the Great Western Trail, and the Salt Creek the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. Ridge Rd Greenway Trail. All three trails converge in the center of ■ Ensure that sidewalks provide good access Dr Given that several signalized intersections in LOM B AR D se t Cre e k E L M H U RST the Old Town District. The Illinois Prairie Path bisects and mobility for all residents by closing gaps, Su n the Village are still in need of some of these the Village in an east-west direction and extends east providing adequate width, maintaining pavement P l ym ou th St Sal t enhancements, most notably two connecting into the City of Elmhurst and west into the Village of quality, and adhering to ADA standards Village- commercial shopping centers along Roosevelt Road, Lombard. wide. Verm on t St P l e a s a n t Av the Village should coordinate with IDOT during ■ Emphasize sidewalk improvements or 83 roadway improvement projects to incorporate these The eastern end of the Great Western terminates installations as priorities for the Village’s major pedestrian facilities and should address these needs at Villa Avenue and extends west into the Village of D i vi si on St corridors while recognizing such installations through its annual Capital Improvement Program Lombard. To connect the Great Western Trail with the may not be feasible or necessary in some of the Ard m ore Av Illinois Prairie Path, signage and the Tri-Trail Connector Ad d i son R d E l m St Village’s residential neighborhoods where traffic ON-STREET BICYCLE FACILITIES is provided on the west side of Myrtle Avenue. is calm, and it is safe and appropriate to walk on Vi l l a Av While the Village’s extensive trail system provides The Salt Creek Greenway Trail generally runs along the neighborhood road shoulder. St. Ch a rl es R d excellent off-street bicycle and pedestrian amenities to Salt Creek and extends from Rotary Park on the east ■ Consider potential pedestrian facility residents and guests, the Village currently has limited side of the Village north into the City of Elmhurst and enhancements such as wider sidewalks, bicycle Bike Network Ke n i l wo rth Av on-street bicycle facilities. Many of the roadways Village of Addison. Within the vicinity of the Village, lanes, and pedestrian refuge areas when Great Western Trail in Villa Park carry lower volumes of traffic at lower the Salt Creek Greenway Trail is bisected by DuPage evaluating the potential for a St. Charles Road Sch ool St Bv speeds and can safely accommodate on-street bicycle Materials in which the trail runs along Villa Avenue road diet. Coordinate with IDOT and adjacent Illinois Prairie Path Ce n tr a l facilities. This is particularly relevant where there is between Thomas Street and 2nd Street. municipalities to establish a side path on North Salt Creek Greenway Trail Bv P a rk H i g h l a n d Av limited off-street space for such accommodation Avenue M on terey Av The Village’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan Trail Connections H a rva rd Av E u cl i d Av Corn el l Av within the public right-of-way. On-street facilities can ■ Collaborate with IDOT and DuPage County to also bridge the gap between the off-street trails and suggests an additional paved side path be provided P rop osed Rou tes install missing pedestrian safety measures at paths and can be implemented quicker at a lower on North Avenue that extends east into Elmhurst Wa sh i n g ton St signalized intersections including pedestrian Sidepath and west into Lombard. Additionally, the Plan Oa kl a n d Av Su m m i t Av cost. “Sharrow” pavement markings are provided P ri n ceton Av signals with countdown timers, high visibility Wi scon si n Av recommends side paths on Ardmore Avenue north Path along Vermont Street between Ardmore Avenue and crosswalks, and ADA compliant curb ramps. Villa Avenue. of the Metra commuter railway, Villa Avenue north of Bike Lane Wildwood Avenue, and along the IL Route 83 Frontage ■ Continue to add bicycle parking infrastructure to M a d i son St encourage bicycle travel for short-distance trips. Marked Shared Lane Road serving Walmart. ■ Install wayfinding signage to guide cyclists to Signed Route Ad a m s St The DuPage County Trails Plan provides guidelines local destinations and nearby Metra stations. Ja cks on St for consideration when incorporating items such ■ Work with school districts to develop Safe Va n B u ren St as trail crossings, signage and wayfinding, trail use Walking Route plans for each of the District’s guidelines and trail maintenance. As trail updates are schools. integrated into previously identified improvements H a rri son St or future improvements, these guidelines should be ■ Execute the improvements identified in the H igh Ridge Rd considered. Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan to provide an interconnected network that connects R i ord a n R d The Village’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan commercial corridors, parks, schools, civic identifies a series of additional improvements to facilities, and religious institutions. the on-street bicycle facilities that can integrate the ■ Continue to support the adopted complete current off-street bicycle trails into a cohesive network. streets ordinance. 38 OAKB R OOK TE R R ACE DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 43 For Public Comment Transportation and Mobility 03/05/2025 Page 53 of 71  PUBLIC TRANSIT The majority of Metra riders drive alone and park at ROUTE 301 – ROOSEVELT ROAD To improve the rider experience, encourage greater VANPOOL the station while 12 percent of riders are dropped off ridership, and preserve existing service frequency, Provides weekday service between the CTA Blue Line A vanpool is a shared transportation arrangement and picked-up. A higher proportion of riders walked the Village should coordinate with Pace to upgrade The Village of Villa Park is supported by a public transit Forest Park Transit Center and the Metra UP-West Line where a group of people travel together in a van or to the Villa Park stations than the other modes. Few all bus stops to be ADA accessible with paved waiting network that provides residents, employees, and Wheaton Station. Certain weekday rush hour trips serve SUV to a common destination, such as a workplace riders accessed the stations by bike. The Metra station areas and to provide passenger waiting amenities visitors with convenient options in accessing local the DuPage County Judicial Center. Through the Village or transit station. Pace’s vanpool programs include its is not served by any bus routes. such as benches, timetables, and posted bus routes. destinations, adjacent communities, scheduled air of Villa Park, this route runs on Roosevelt Road (IL Route traditional vanpool program, Metra Feeder Program, Bus shelters should be installed at higher ridership transportation services, the City of Chicago, and the 38). Other destinations include the Oakbrook Center and Employer (Corporate) Shuttle Program. Pace helps bus stops and all bus shelters should feature real-time greater Chicago region. Transit services are provided and the Elmhurst Memorial Hospital. There are three with vanpool costs by using grant funds to provide Metra Drove Dropped Carpool Bus Walked Bike Other technologies. by the Metra and Pace. Station Alone off posted stops along this route located at Summit Avenue, vans that are used to connect with train stations, Ardmore Avenue, and the Villa Oaks shopping center. Locations that should be considered for new shelters transportation centers, or common employment Villa 60% 12% 5% 0% 21% 0% 1% METRA COMMUTER RAILWAY include the intersections of St. Charles Road with Villa centers and residential communities for a more Park Boardings and lightings within the Village of Villa Park are Source: Regional Transportation Asset Management, Metra on-board Avenue and at key stops along IL Route 38 including economical, convenient, and environmentally friendly The Metra Union Pacific West (UP-W) line services Villa survey, 2019 highest on Route 301, which serves some of the regionals commute to work than driving alone. within the vicinity of the regional shopping centers and Park via a station located just east of Ardmore Avenue, major commercial and employment centers including the intersection of IL Route 38 with Ardmore Avenue. with additional stations in the adjoining communities hospitals, shopping centers, and county municipal In the On To 2040 Comprehensive Regional Plan of Lombard and Elmhurst. The UP-W line extends from services. RIDESHARE The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning has Elburn to the west to the Ogilvie Transportation Center identified improvements to the Metra UP West railway IMPROVE TRANSIT CONNECTIVITY Pace Rideshare is a carpool and vanpool matching in Chicago to the east. On a weekday, there are 27 service, affiliated with Pace Suburban Bus, and is which consist of track, signal, safety, and infrastructure ROUTE 313 – ST. CHARLES ROAD Currently, accessibility to Pace bus routes is limited to inbound and outbound trains that stop in the Village. enhancements to increase passenger service and the southern portion of the Village. To improve transit the designated public rideshare administrator for On Saturday, Sunday/ Holidays, there are 10 inbound Provides daily service between the CTA Green Northeastern Illinois. It connects commuters with reduce delays. connectivity, the Village should collaborate with Pace and outbound trains that stop in the Village. Line Austin Station in Chicago/Oak Park and the similar routes to share rides. Pace facilitates a free and adjacent communities to enhance the existing intersection of Finley Road with Branding Avenue in carpooling and vanpooling matching service through PACE SUBURBAN BUS bus routes serving the Village or to establish a new In the last surveys performed by Metra in 2018 and Downers Grove. Through the Village of Villa Park, this their website. bus routes that connects to existing routes and serves 2019, ridership levels were at 870 weekday boardings, Pace operates two fixed bus routes through the route runs on St. Charles Road east of Villa Avenue, the north side of Villa Park, namely the Metra station and 852 weekday alightings at the Villa Park station. Village of Villa Park. The routes provide feeder service along Villa Avenue between St. Charles Road and and North Avenue commercial developments and the Parking utilization was 85%. At that time, the surveys to the regions major employment centers such as Washington Street, and on Washington Street west of adjacent communities of Lombard and Addison. Other were conducted ridership levels were generally hospitals, shopping centers, and County municipal Villa Avenue. Other destinations include the Eastgate consideration could be given to establishing “rush consistent with previous surveys conducted in 2016, services and to the CTA rapid transit system. Most of Center and Yorktown Center in Lombard. There are hour” bus service via Route 313 (St. Charles Road) 2014, and 2006. Since 2018, Metra has experienced the Village’s commercial developments are within a nine posted stops along this route located at the that serves the Metra station for weekday commuters. significant ridership reductions across the system due convenient walking distance (1/4-mile) of a Pace bus intersections of Washington Street with Addison Additionally, bike and pedestrian connections to to the COVID pandemic. However, recent information route. However, only a limited number of residential Avenue, Michigan Avenue, Harvard Avenue, Ardmore transit should be improved as they are just as key to provided by Metra indicates that ridership levels are neighborhoods are served by a Pace bus route with Avenue, Illinois Avenue, and Summit Avenue and at strengthening the network as a whole. recovering. Prior to the pandemic, the Village’s station service only provided in the southeast quadrant of the the intersections of Villa Avenue with Washington provided adequate parking to accommodate the Village. Pace is also the designated public rideshare Street, Highland Avenue and St. Charles Road. As part of Pace’s strategic vision plan, Driving parking demand. administrator for Northeastern Illinois and the agency Innovation, Pace has committed to expanding its network of arterial bus rapid transit service, known as Metra Weekday Weekday Parking Parking Parking facilitates a free carpool and vanpool matching service PACE AMENITIES through their website. the Pulse. Pace has evaluated providing the service Station Boarding Alighting Capacity Occupancy Utilization Infrastructure along the Pace routes is minimal on North Avenue which terminates at York Street in Villa 870 852 492 422 85% with none of the bus stops in the Village providing Elmhurst, and along Roosevelt Road between Forst Park passenger waiting amenities such as weather- Park and the Oakbrook Center (IL Route 83). The Village Source: Metra boarding/alighting counts (2018) and Metra parking protected shelters, benches, lighting, real-time bus counts (2019) should coordinate with Pace on the success of these tracker information, bus route maps/schedules, and routes and the potential future extension of the routes concrete waiting pads. However, all of the stops are into Villa Park. located near intersections that provide connections to the sidewalk system and pedestrian facilities due to the robust sidewalk network within residential areas. 44 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Transportation and Mobility For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 54 of 71  Cri cke t Cre e k AD D I SON ACCESSIBLE TRANSPORTATION SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVES CARSHARING Households with access to car sharing services 64 Sustainable alternatives to driving alone can mitigate RIDE DUPAGE are likely to have lower auto ownership rates and Sch i l l er St transportations for the Village. Electric vehicles are spend less of their disposable income on associated The Ride DuPage service provides a bus or taxi service increasingly common. The impacts of new vehicle Ri dg e Rd costs of ownership (i.e., insurance, maintenance, for people who need travel assistance due to physical technology are an opportunity for Villa Park to Cre e k r fuel, registration fees, etc.). There are currently no LOM B AR D Su n s et D E L M H U RST or cognitive limitations. Curb-to-curb transportation embrace electric vehicles to appeal to both locals and car-sharing services (ZipCar, etc.) operating in the Sal t P l ym ou th St is provided 24-hours a day, 7-days a week at reduced visitors. Village, which contributes to increased auto use rates. Verm on t St and parking needs, higher household automobile ELECTRIC VEHICLE SERVICES P l ea sa n t Av ownership rates, and more household income 83 YORK TOWNSHIP SENIOR RIDES There are currently 27 electronic vehicle charging devoted to transportation costs. D i vi si on St The York Township Senior Rides program is open stations in Villa Park. Locations include RECOMMENDATIONS Ard m ore Av to seniors 55 years of age or older who reside in Ad d i son R d ■ Target store - 16 Tesla charging stations and four E l m St Vi l l a Av York Township. Service is available Monday through ■ Work with businesses and property owners Chargepoint charging stations. Friday, 8:15 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. One-way essential rides to dedicate parking spaces for electric vehicle cost three dollars per ride, one-way non-essential ■ Walmart provides four Electrify America charging St. Ch a rl es R d stations. charging stations to expand the inventory of rides cost four dollars per ride, and rides to/from charging stations in the Village and enhance York Township will remain two dollars each way. ■ Ovaline Court provides two electronic vehicle convenience for electric vehicle owners. Transit Network Ke n i l wo rth Av Reservations are required to make sure that the charging stations. ■ Work with the Bike, Pedestrian, and Transit Train Station service can accommodate the riders’ needs . ■ Harley Davidson store provides one Chargepoint sub-committee of the Environmental Concerns Railroad Crossing Sch ool St tr a l Bv station. Cen Commission to research and consider Proposed Bus Shelter RECOMMENDATIONS Bv The latter two locations are not for public use. establishing new services and technologies in the P a rk H i g h l a n d Av M on terey Av These stations provide dedicated parking spaces Village to reduce single occupancy vehicle trips, Bus Stop ■ Coordinate with Pace on transit service and E u cl i d Av H a rva rd Av Corn el l Av infrastructure improvements that will enhance for non-emission vehicles and offer environmental such as car sharing. R a i l roa d the rider experience and encourage ridership, benefits to the community. ■ The Village should pursue working agreements Canadian National / Illinois Wa sh i n g ton St with car sharing companies and property Oa kl a n d Av including bus shelters, ADA compliance, sidewalk P ri n ceton Av Su m m i t Av The Village should encourage large retailers and Central Railroad Wi scon si n Av connections, route information, and real-time owners to identify carshare storage locations to shopping centers to provide electronic vehicle Union Pacific Railroad technologies. incoporate service in Villa Park. charging stations for public use, should provide public M a d i son St ■ Collaborate with Pace and adjacent electronic vehicle charging stations at municipal E xi sti n g B u s Rou tes municipalities to explore the extension of the locations such as at the library, recreation centers, Pace Route 313 existing Route 313 (St. Charles Road) to provide and Village Hall, and should encourage future multi- Ad a m s St Pace Route 301 weekday rush hour service to the Villa Park Metra dwelling housing developments to provide access to Ja cks on St Station or to explore the provision of a new bus electronic vehicle charging stations. Electronic vehicle P rop ose d B u s Rou te s Va n B u ren St route that would serve the north side of the charging stations should be avoided near Metra Recommended Pace Pulse Village, the Villa Park Metra Station and area Stations due to functionality and practicality. Extension H a rri son St commercial/employment centers along North H i g h Ri d g e R d New Regional Bus Route Avenue. ■ Support biking to transit with instructions posted Rush Period Route 1 R i ord a n R d at bus shelters on putting bikes on buses. Rush Period Route 2 ■ Work with IDOT and Pace to extend future Pace Pulse service on North Avenue and Roosevelt Road into Villa Park. 38 OAKB R OOK TE R R ACE DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 45 For Public Comment Transportation and Mobility 03/05/2025 Page 55 of 71  CHAPTER 5 COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE VILLAGE SERVICES Community Facilities are important in delivering During the outreach process, several areas were services and amenities that enhance the quality of identified for improvement, including additional life for Villa Park residents. This encompasses local staffing, better maintenance of public spaces, the government, fire and police protection, education, The Village operates through seven departments— addition of a municipal campus, and stronger parks and recreation, and health and medical facilities. Administration, Community & Economic collaboration between departments. By strengthening Although the Village directly manages many of these Development, Finance, Fire, Parks and Recreation, communication, upgrading facilities, and optimizing services, some are provided by external entities over Police, and Public Works—that provide essential resources, Villa Park can improve operational which the Village has limited control. Therefore, Villa services to the community. An effective delivery of efficiency, ensuring the Village not only meets current Park should proactively lead in sustaining partnerships services relies on smooth coordination among these demands but also plans for future manageable and ensuring robust communication channels, both departments to address immediate needs and long- growth. internally and externally, to facilitate the efficient and term goals. effective delivery of services. 46 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 56 of 71  Cri cke t Cre e k AD D I SON ENHANCE EMERGENCY SERVICES MONITOR HEALTH AND EDUCATION AND The Village offers its residents emergency services MEDICAL FACILITIES RESIDENTIAL GROWTH 64 Sch i l l er St to ensure efficiency, safety, and protection. The Villa Park is home to various healthcare providers Choices in housing are often influenced by the quality continued delivery of high-quality and up-to-date that serve the community’s needs, ensuring residents of the school district. Currently, Villa Park is served by Ridge Rd services is important for attracting new residents, have access to quality care. Villa Medical Arts, a five school districts, School District 4, School District 1 Cre e k r LOM B AR D S u n se tD E L M H U RST businesses, and investors. long-standing group of Family Practice and Internal 45, School District 48, School District 88, and District 2 Sal t P l ym ou th St Medicine physicians, has been a trusted healthcare 205. Villa Park is home to Ardmore Elementary School, Currently, the Villa Park Police Department is located provider for Villa Park and the surrounding area since North Elementary School, Jackson Middle School, Verm on t St at 40 South Ardmore Avenue and consists of 39 3 1953. The community is also served by other local Albright Middle School, and Jefferson Middle School. P l ea sa n t Av sworn full-time police officers, 11 sworn part-time 83 medical facilities, including Novak Family Medical Additionally, the Villa Park Recreation Center offers a 4 police officers and 12 full and part time civilian staff Center, Pro Medical, and Fresenius Medical Care, licensed preschool and childcare program, overseen by D i vi si on St members. which provide various services ranging from general the Illinois Department of Children and Family services. Ard m ore Av practice to specialized treatments. In addition to As Villa Park continues to grow, the Village should Community Facilities Ad d i son R d The Fire Department manages and organizes 27 full- E l m St these local providers, residents can access nearby continue to work closely with the school districts Vi l l a Av time personnel. All personnel are Certified Firefighters and Licensed Paramedics working out of two fire hospitals such as Elmhurst Memorial Hospital, Glen to prepare for additional students. By continuing Fire Station stations - Station 81 at 1440 S Ardmore Avenue and Oaks Medical Center, Good Samaritan Hospital, and a coordinated approach, educational facilities will St. Ch a rl es R d 5 Central DuPage Hospital, offering specialized care, be prepared, and the Village will understand how to Police Department 6 19 Station 82 at 102 W Plymouth Street. The Department 7 has two Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances emergency services, and comprehensive medical best help, thereby sustaining a high quality of life and Government and Administration Ke n i l wo rth Av (one at each station) and one reserve ambulance. support. By encouraging partnerships with these educational standards. 18 10 regional healthcare facilities and continuing to attract School 8 Historically, the Fire Department responds to over Sch ool St 9 local providers, Villa Park can maintain its health Higher education options nearby Villa Park include the Ce n tr a l Bv 2,000 calls on average, a majority of which were Library infrastructure to keep pace with development. College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, Elmhurst College, and 11 Emergency Medical Services related. Bv H i g h l a n d Av Wheaton College. Given the importance of workforce Post Office P a rk M on terey Av H a rva rd Av development to the Village, it should work to figure out E u cl i d Av Corn el l Av During the outreach process, approximately 81% of Community Center respondents felt police and fire services are among the RECOMMENDATIONS the role these educational institutions could play when community’s strengths. Therefore, as Villa Park grows, ■ Strengthen collaborations with nearby hospitals it comes to workforce training. Villa Park Recreation Center Wa sh i n g ton St Oa kl a n d Av like Elmhurst Memorial, Good Samaritan, Glen Su m m i t Av it is vital to uphold these high standards, ensuring Wi scon si n Av P ri n ceton Av Oaks, and Central DuPage to bring specialized Facility Name residents feel secure and safe. services closer to residents and explore RECOMMENDATIONS 1 . N orth E l em en ta r y Sch ool ■ Evaluate the use of the Safe Routes to School 2. F i re Sta ti on 82 M a d i son St opportunities for co-located medical services. RECOMMENDATIONS ■ Partner with community organizations and program as a funding source to develop sidewalks 3. J efferson M i d d l e Sch ool ■ Develop a long-term staffing plan to support and bikeways that serve the schools. Explore 4. I owa Com m u n i ty Cen ter Ad a m s St healthcare providers to develop preventative community growth and development initiatives opportunities through the Public School System 5. Vi l l a ge H a l l health initiatives, such as wellness screenings, Ja cks on St to ensure staffing capacities are met for the and Illinois Safe Routes to School Program to 6. P u b l i c Works D ep a rtm en ts 12 vaccination drives, and mental health awareness 7. P ol i ce D ep a rtm en t Va n B u ren St Village. develop sidewalks and bikeways that serve the 14 programs 8. Ard m ore E l em en ta r y Sch ool schools. ■ Invest in shared service agreements with ■ Work with local and regional healthcare providers 9. P u b l i c L i b ra r y 13 H a rri son St neighboring municipalities to reduce operational ■ Work with the school districts to create an H igh to attract more medical offices and clinics to Villa 1 0. M on te ssori Ch i l d re n ’s Aca d e m y Ridge Rd costs. educational system that is inclusive and Park, focused on specialized care, senior care, 1 1 . Ch a m b er of Com m erce responsive to the various needs of the population. 15 ■ Analyze the emergency response times to identify and mental health services. 1 2. J a ckson M i d d l e Sch ool /E a rl y Ch i l d h ood Cen ter R i ord a n R d areas where improvements can be made. ■ Continue to collaborate with District 48, District 1 3. I sl a m i c F ou n d a ti on Sch ool 16 17 45, District 88, District 4, and District 205 to ensure 1 4. Al b ri gh t M i d d l e Sch ool ■ Support the Public Safety Cadet Program to that high-quality public education is provided to 1 5. Wi l l owb rook H i gh Sch ool encourage young adults to pursue a career in law the community by supporting systems that align 1 6. F i re Sta ti on 81 38 enforcement. resources to meet the diverse needs of every 1 7. P ost O ffi ce OAKB R OOK TE R R ACE student. 1 8. M u seu m DRAFT 1 9. Vi l l a Pa rk R ecrea ti on Cen ter Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 47 For Public Comment Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure 03/05/2025 Page 57 of 71  ADDRESS AGING PARKS AND MAINTAIN VILLAGE PARKS RECOMMENDATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE ■ Conduct periodic reviews and updates of the ■ Install modern playground equipment such as RECREATION During the outreach process, it was revealed that existing water and wastewater (sewer system) outdoor exercise stations, and ample seating Maintaining Villa Park’s streets, water and sewer residents have an appreciation for the Village’s plans and facilities. in parks to accommodate a wide range of age lines, and wastewater service infrastructure has been commitment to parks. However, residents also ■ Maintain close coordina­tion and collaboration Parks, open spaces, and natural areas are key groups. and will continue to be a top priority for the Village. highlighted the need for upgrading the Village’s with utility providers to ensure the community is components of community identity and quality ■ Increase the number of green spaces, particularly The responsi­bility falls heavily on the Public Works current recreation facilities as they are inadequately well-served as demand for services evolves over of life within Villa Park. The Parks and Recreation in central areas and near the Metra station, to Department, which includes the Administration and meeting their amenity needs. Additionally, residents time. Department plays a vital role in maintaining the provide more recreational opportunities. Office, Engineering, Forestry, Streets, Wastewater, and expressed a desire for more green spaces, especially in community’s 15 public parks and organizing Garbage divisions. During planning stages, outreach ■ Expand and connect sidewalks throughout the central areas and near the Metra station. ■ Implement a regular tree maintenance program recreational activities for residents. The department and discussion with Village departments highlighted Village, prioritizing areas that link commercial and increase tree planting in parks to enhance is instrumental in implementing the Comprehensive The Villa Park Recreation Department offers a diverse the importance of maintaining and upgrading zones, business districts, and residential shade and improve the overall environment. Plan’s parks and open space initiatives, including the range of programs, including sports, fitness, aquatics, existing infrastructure in commercial and business neighborhoods. recently remodeled Iowa Community Center grounds arts, dance, special events, and senior activities. These areas. In light of these concerns, the Village should ■ Consider public-private partnership for activities and Jefferson Pool. The department also manages programs are hosted at various facilities, including the determine strategized funding efforts to support overlooked by the streets division. the Sugar Creek Golf Course in partnership with the new Villa Park Recreation Center. The Village should updating and enhancing existing infrastructure. This ■ Establish and adhere to regular maintenance Elmhurst Park District and the recently opened Villa ensure that its parks and recreational facilities cater to includes proactive maintenance to accommodate schedules for all infrastructure to extend the Park Recreation Center. Villa Park is also home to all ages, incorporating features such as ample seating, future growth and adequately serve the needs of lifespan of streets, sidewalks, and public facilities. significant regional trails like the Illinois Prairie Path, modern playground equipment, and outdoor exercise residents and businesses. By addressing infrastructure ■ Integrate sustainable practices, such as green Great Western Trail, and Salt Creek Trail, which serve stations. The Village should focus on expanding and needs proactively and fostering strong partnerships, infrastructure and energy-efficient upgrades, into as cultural and economic assets. modernizing recreational facilities, increasing green Villa Park can effec­tively enhance its infrastructure all infrastructure projects to future-proof Villa spaces, and ensuring consistent maintenance and resilience and support sustainable development. Park’s growth. enhancement of park amenities. 48 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 58 of 71  Cri cke t Cre e k 1 AD D I SON PROVIDE EQUITABLE RECOMMENDATIONS VILLAGE PARKS ACCESS TO PARKS ■ Amend the zoning code to incentivize and/or require new development to integrate and/or Label Name Type Acreage 64 Sch i l l er St Family-friendly, safe, and beautiful residential areas dedicate open space for the public. 2 can be achieved through proper park planning. 1 Twins Lakes Park Neighborhood Park 15.8 Ridge Rd ■ Work towards acquiring lots that would be Cre e k Park distribution can be measured based on the 2 North Park Neighborhood Park 1.2 r LOM B AR D tD E L M H U RST suitable for pocket parks and tot lots within S u n se service area for each type of park within the Village’s 3 Westmore Park Neighborhood Park 1.4 3 Sa l t residential neighborhoods. P l ym ou th St residential areas. Based on a mapping analysis of the ■ Consider building additional facilities in the 4 North Terrace Park Neighborhood Park 5 park service areas in Villa Park, most residents are Verm on t St within a half mile to either a community park – a large Village’s parks and public spaces, such as 5 Iowa Community Center Neighborhood Park 3.2 P l ea sa n t Av park space with amenities designed to serve the entire seating options, to provide active and passive 5 6 83 6 Jefferson Park Community Park 7 community - or a neighborhood park – a small park opportunities for residents of all ages. D i vi si on St 7 Franklin Park Neighborhood Park 1.8 space with amenities designed to serve only nearby ■ Explore public/private partnership opportunities 4 Ard m ore Av 7 residents. Analysis of the distribution of parkland for open space. 8 Lions Park Community Park 4.5 Ad d i son R d E l m St found that 70 percent of residential parcels within the Vi l l a Av ■ Create a community recreational space suitable 9 Rotary Park Neighborhood Park 4.3 Village limits are within a park service area. However, for residents and families of all ages. Access to Parks 10 Cortesi Park Non-Recreational 0.3 there are parts of the Village that have less access to St. Ch a rl es R d TRAIL NETWORK 9 parks, particularly south of Washington Street. This is 11 Lufkin Park Community Park 6 8 Trails 16 further complicated given Sugar Creek Golf Course is 12 Willowbrook Park Neighborhood Park 2.5 Ke n i l wo rth Av Villa Park’s trail network includes the Illinois Prairie Park 10 not a public park. 14 Path, Great Western Trail, and Salt Creek Trail. 13 Westland Park Neighborhood Park 1 Sugar Creek Golf Course The National Recreation and Park Association These trails are recreational assets, they connect 14 Rotary Club Playground East Playground 0.1 Sch ool St tr a l B v 17 Ce n recommends a total close-to-home space (Mini-Parks, parks, neighborhoods, and natural areas. While Forest Preserve District 15 Rotary Club Playground West Playground 0.1 P a rk Bv Neighborhood Parks and Community Parks) of 10.5 participants appreciated the existing rail-to-trail H i g h l a n d Av Pa rk Servi ce Area 15 M on terey Av Total 54.2 H a rva rd Av signage, they emphasized the need for better E u cl i d Av acres per 1000 population. Villa Parks falls under this Corn el l Av Within 5-minute walk service area standard heavily by around 150 acres. wayfinding throughout the Village. Suggestions included improving infrastructure on the Prairie Within 10-minute walk service To ensure all Villa Park residents continue to have Path, connecting networks, addressing tree removal TRAILS area Wa sh i n g ton St Oa kl a n d Av Wi scon si n Av P ri n ceton Av Su m m i t Av adequate access to parks and open spaces, the Parks and littering issues. To enhance the trails, the Village Underserved Areas and Recreation staff should collaborate with the should focus on upgrading amenities, improving Label Name Type Acreage Recreation Department to regularly review existing M a d i son St signage and maintenance, and better integrating the 16 Great Western Trail Trail 5.9 parkland so that all residents have the opportunity to trails into the broader community infrastructure to 17 Prairie Path Trail 12.8 be active outside. To add parks or public green spaces, ensure safety and accessibility for all residents. Ad a m s St the Village should explore oppor­tunities for new park Total 18.7 Ja cks on St locations with priority placed outside the 5-minute walkshed area. The 5-minute walkshed is the quarter- RECOMMENDATIONS 11 Va n B u ren St mile radius most residents are willing to walk to a park ■ Develop a signage plan for trails, including clear or destination. Should parcels in these areas become wayfinding and informational signs to improve 12 H a rri son St H igh available, the Village should consider their acquisition navigation and user experience. Ridge Rd to develop public spaces such as neighborhood parks, ■ Upgrade trail features such as lighting, benches, tot lots, or community gardens. Additionally, to ensure water fountains, and rest areas. R i ord a n R d 13 connectivity to new and existing parks and open ■ Extend trails into community gardens and parks spaces, the Village should assess paths needed along and develop a multi-use pathway that connects existing rights-of-way and through neighborhoods the trail to schools and neighborhoods. 38 where possible. Cycling and walking should be made safe, convenient, and fun for all Villa Park residents. OAKB R OOK TE R R ACE DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 49 For Public Comment Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure 03/05/2025 Page 59 of 71  CHARACTER COMMUNITY BRANDING PLACEMAKING HISTORICAL PRESERVATION RECOMMENDATIONS ■ Develop a branding strategy to highlight unique COMMISSION AND IDENTITY While Villa Park is known as “the Garden Village,” Placemaking is about creating inviting and meaningful assets within Villa Park. it can do more to incorporate standards into spaces that people enjoy and feel connected to. As The Historical Preservation Commission advises public elements, such as gateways. This can help ■ Use decorative signage and lighting, seating outlined within the Subarea Section of the Plan, one the President and Board of Trustees on preserving Villa Park is a community distinguished by its rich areas, planters, and other beautification elements communities: way to achieve this is by installing gateway features sites, buildings, and areas of historical or community architectural diversity, historical significance, and in combination with public gathering spaces such that announce entry into the community. These significance. The Villa Park Historical Preservation small-town feeling. The Village boasts a variety of ■ Convey a common message and image as plazas and parklets to create cohesive and features can communicate a sense of character Commission is dedicated to recognizing and preserving architectural styles, including Prairie, Queen Anne, Arts to audiences both within and outside the inviting destinations. and identity while strengthening the Village’s brand the village’s rich architectural heritage. Each year, the and Crafts, and Dutch Colonial Revival, among others, community that will market the community ■ Continue to build upon the Village’s community to visitors. They should include high-quality and Commission grants Historic Plaque Awards to buildings reflecting its unique character and commitment locally, state-wide, nationally, and internationally branding efforts to ensure the “Garden Village” is attractive signage, landscaping, and decorative that hold historical significance and contribute to the to preservation. Notably, the Village is home to a as a great place to live, work, shop, and do regionally known. lighting with common design elements consistently unique character of Villa Park. With over sixty properties Frank Lloyd Wright prefabricated house and the Villa business. ■ Prioritize integrating public art at key focal points utilized throughout the community. In addition, honored and two landmarks on the National Register Park Bank building, designed with influences from ■ Identify and promote what makes the community and activity centers with high foot traffic and incorporating placemaking elements such as public of Historic Places, the Village takes pride in its diverse renowned architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Today, distinct and appealing in a regionally competitive gateway routes to the airport. art, murals, and monument signs can further enhance architectural legacy. The Commission encourages the Village is known for its architectural landmarks, environment for investors, businesses, retailers, the area’s visual appeal and cultural significance. The community involvement in the nomination process, with 40 properties recognized as local landmarks, ■ Work with property owners to install murals on visitors, and residents. Village should also explore using monument signs with owner consent necessary for consideration. underscoring Villa Park’s dedication to preserving large-scale windowless buildings, activating ■ Promote a healthy economy, retain key that are more pronounced and have better visibility its historic identity. Moving forward, enhancing unexciting facades into cultural destinations. businesses and creative talent, and attract on high-speed roadways than other signs. Utilizing Villa Park’s positive attributes through municipal private investment, new residents, and young different sizes and scales with similar designs will take RECOMMENDATIONS initiatives and public infrastructure improvements professionals. advantage of a range of locations. ■ Consider offering incentives to property owners to will strengthen the Village’s community character and maintain their properties to the required standards sense of place. The Village should undertake a branding effort to set in the property maintenance code. emphasize its status as a desirable place for residents RECOMMENDATIONS to live and tourists to visit. Long term, the way the ■ Celebrate and promote the Village’s historic ■ Host community events and initiatives to community brands and markets itself will help attract landmarks through marketing techniques, such as We love how many trees are celebrate cultural diversity. pamphlets, social media, and through a newsletter investment and encourage people to put down roots, in our neighborhood. To us, ■ Infuse cultural elements and identity into public to brand the Village as a destination. purchase goods and services, along with visit and participate in activities within the community. The those trees provide so much spaces, such as local art, to celebrate community ■ Encourage adaptive reuse to sustainably bring new Village should build upon its “Garden Village” name to character and shade, and pride and ownership among residents. Making life to the Village’s building stock while preserving convey its image, promoting the Village as a distinct even just give us a feeling of sure public space and events are accessible and historic value. welcoming. and unique place in Illinois and the Midwest. sustainability being in ■ Regularly update a local register of historically ■ Conduct regular surveys with residents, Villa Park. significant properties, structures, and districts, businesses, and event attendees, to identify including preservation status. which events are most successful and potential improvements that could be implemented at ■ The Historical Preservation Commission should future events. spearhead acquiring a National Park Designation along the Prairie Path from the Village boundary to 50 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Rotary Park in the Historic Ardmore District. Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 60 of 71  DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 51 For Public Comment Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure 03/05/2025 Page 61 of 71  CHAPTER 6 IMPLEMENTATION NEXT STEPS REFERENCE THE PLAN REGULARLY The Villa Park Comprehensive Plan is a foundation for future decision-making related to land use, development, and community improvement. The The Comprehensive Plan should be referenced plan is intended to direct action within Villa Park The following actions and strategies establish the regularly as the official policy guide for planning that supports the community’s established vision “next steps” to be taken after the adoption of the Villa decisions made by Village staff, boards, and and core community principles. Implementation Park Comprehensive Plan. These steps will provide commissions. It should be used as a primary resource will be important to provide strategies and for the effective application of the Plan and continued to assist with policy formation, prospective projects, funding resources to ensure that the goals and community planning and investment. The actions and legislative and quasi-judicial development proposals, recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan foster strategies will ensure the Plan remains reflective of and planning initiatives, ensuring that future decisions positive momentum within the community. community needs and aspirations. They include: are in line with the Village’s set goals for land use and development. Further, service providers, developers, ■ Reference the Comprehensive Plan on a regular Comprehensive Plan implementation will require and partner organizations should be encouraged to basis to guide Village policies and decision- the cooperation of a diverse range of organizations use the Plan when considering new development, making. and stakeholders, including Village staff, elected and facilities, infrastructure updates, and programming appointed officials, public agencies, the local business ■ Ensure the Capital Improvement Plan’s (CIP) within their parameters. The Plan should be used to: community, property owners, developers, and infrastructure improvements are aligned with the residents. Together, these groups will assist the Village recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan. ■ Evaluate and shape policies and regulations. in realizing its vision for the future. ■ Promote cooperation and participation among ■ Work with partner agencies and service providers. various agencies, organizations, community ■ Review and evaluate development proposals. groups, and individuals. ■ Prioritize public expenditures. ■ Regularly review and update the Plan to reflect ■ Encourage private sector investment. current conditions and shifts in community priorities. ■ Coordinate new facilities, infrastructure, and programming. ■ Explore possible funding sources and implementation techniques. 52 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 62 of 71 LOCAL AND REGIONAL COOPERATION REGULAR UPDATES PARTNERS PARTNERS LIST POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCES The Villa Park Comprehensive Plan is not a static ■ Choose DuPage To ensure the success of the Comprehensive Plan’s document, and it is intended to evolve with shifts Given Villa Park’s position within the region, it is ■ Chamber of Commerce implementation, there must be strong leadership in trends, issues, and opportunities. For example, If essential that the Village develops and maintains ■ College of DuPage Small Business Development There are several potential funding sources that the from the Village and coordination with other public community attitudes change or new challenges arise partnerships with a wide variety of groups and Center Village can pursue to support the implementation of agencies, neighboring communities, community that are beyond the scope of the current Plan, the Plan organizations. Facilitating regular communication should be revised and updated accordingly. Although and cooperation with partners will support ■ Discover DuPage the Comprehensive Plan. It is important to note that groups and organizations, the local business implementation of the Land Use Plan and identify ■ Innovation DuPage funding sources are subject to change over time. As community, the private sector, and other key a proposal to amend the Plan can be brought forth by opportunities to work collaboratively toward mutual such, the Village should continue to research and stakeholders. As many of the recommendations petition at any time, the Village should systematically ■ Villa Park Chamber of Commerce interests. Further, it will facilitate a greater regional monitor grants, funding agencies, and programs included within the Plan pertain to issues extending review the Plan annually and evaluate updating every ■ Illinois Small Business Development Center perspective on how issues are addressed in the area. to identify deadlines, funding spec­ifications, and past Village limits, such as water quality or roadway five to seven years. (SBDC) new opportunities as they become available. These connectivity, regional cooperation will be key in Ideally, the review and preparation of the Plan’s Villa Park already has a wide variety of partnerships, ■ Federal Highways Administration (FHWA) programs are organized by funding category, which addressing them. which should be maintained in the future. Possibilities annual action agenda should coincide with the ■ IDOT include: preparation of the Village’s budget and CIP. In this for new partnerships with organizations and ■ Department of Commerce & Economic ■ General Economic Development manner, recommendations or changes relating agencies should be identified by the Village to aid Opportunity (DCEO) to capital improvements or other programs can implementation. This could include neighboring ■ Transportation and Infrastructure be considered as part of the commitments for the municipalities, regional and state agencies, ■ Parks, Trails, and Open Spaces upcoming fiscal year. Routine examination of the Plan neighborhood groups, the local business community, ■ Community Facilities and Infrastructure will help ensure that the planning program remains and other groups with a vested interest in Villa Park. relevant to community needs and goals. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 53 For Public Comment Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure 03/05/2025 Page 63 of 71  GENERAL ECONOMIC BUSINESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS TAX ABATEMENT PAYMENT IN LIEU OF TAXES (PILOT) DEVELOPMENT A business assistance grant program can be utilized to attract targeted retail businesses and assist existing As authorized by Division 74.3 of the Municipal Code of the State of Illinois, a municipality may designate, after Property tax abatements are typically used as an incentive to attract business and revitalize the local Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) is a tool like tax abatement. The Village can use PILOT to reduce the businesses located within a particular area. Business public hearings, an area as a Business Development economy, and can be applied to address a wide property tax burden of a business for a predetermined TAX INCREMENT FINANCING assistance funds are typically offered in the form of a District (BDD). A BDD allows the Village to levy up range of community issues. In the State of Illinois, period. In this instance, the Village and property One of the primary purposes of Tax Increment matching grant that pays for a defined percentage of to an additional one percent retailer’s occupation municipalities and other taxing districts can abate owners will agree to the annual payment of a set fee Finance (TIF) funding is to incentivize and attract eligible expenditures. The expenditures are typically tax, one percent hotel tax, and one percent sales tax any portion of the tax that they individually levy on in place of property taxes. Payments are generally desired development within key commercial areas. limited to build-out costs, signage, moving expenses, within a designated district. Similar to a TIF district, a a property. The period of tax abatement on a given made in the form of a fixed sum, but they may also TIF utilizes future increases in property tax revenues and physical improvements to the property necessary BDD has a maximum life of 23 years. BDD legislation property can be no longer than 10 years and the total be paid as a percentage of the income generated by a generated within a designated area or district to pay to accommodate a new business or the expansion of also permits municipalities to utilize tax revenue combined sum of abated taxes for all taxing districts property. PILOT can also be a means of reducing the for improvements and further incentivize continued an existing business. The size of the grant available growth that has been generated by BDD properties cannot exceed $4 million over that period. A taxing fiscal impact on the Village of a nonprofit, institutional reinvestment. As the Equalized Assessed Value (EAV) of can also be tied to the potential impact the proposed to fund improvements in the district. BDD funds can district can administer the abatement by one of two use, or other non-taxpaying entity located on a key properties within a TIF District increases, the TIF fund project could have on the area. For example, the grant be used for infrastructure improvements, public methods: 1) lowering the tax rate; or 2) initiating a site. While such uses can be desirable as activity captures incremental growth in property tax over the could vary based on the anticipated sales tax to be improvements, site acquisition, and land assemblage property tax freeze where the property is taxed based generators, they do not contribute financially to base year that the TIF was established and reinvests generated by the project. and could be applicable in the identified subareas on a pre-development assessed value. In some the general maintenance and upkeep of municipal those funds within the district. Local officials may then or emerging business and industrial parks in the circumstances, municipalities can also petition the infrastructure and services in the same way that issue bonds or undertake other financial obligations community. Given the limited amount of funds that County to lower a property’s assessment. For example, taxed properties do. Provisions can be made to offset based on the growth in new revenue. The maximum SPECIAL SERVICE AREA a BDD is capable of generating, compared to a TIF a commercial property could be assessed at a that negative impact by allowing the Village to be life of a TIF district in the State of Illinois is 23 years, Special Service Areas (SSAs) can be used to fund district, BDD designation is best suited for funding percentage equivalent to that of a residential property. compensated for at least a portion of the revenue that although the State Legislature can authorize up to a improvements and programs within a designated small scale improvements and property maintenance This is an effective means of lowering a property tax would otherwise be collected in the form of property 12-year extension. boundary. An SSA is essentially added to the property programs. bill; however, it should be noted that this method tax. tax of the properties within the identified service area impacts all taxing districts and not just the district TIF dollars can be used for elements like infrastructure, and the revenue received is channeled back into making the request. streetscaping, public improvements, land assemblage, projects and programs benefiting those properties. INCUBATORS and offsetting the cost of development. Land An SSA can be rejected if 51 percent of the property Business incubators provide low-cost space and assemblage is a strategy employed in land acquisition owners and electors within a designated area object. specialized support to small and startup companies. where two or more adjacent parcels are acquired and SSA funds can be used for such things as streetscape Such services might include administrative consulting, consolidated into single parcel. improvements, extra trash pickup, district marketing, access to office equipment and training, and Villa Park currently has four TIF districts: TIF 13 - North and special events. assistance in accessing credit. Incubators are typically Avenue, TIF 25 - Kenilworth Avenue, TIF 36 - Ardmore/ owned by public entities such as municipalities or Vermont, and TIF 47 - St. Charles Road Commercial economic development agencies who then subsidize Corridor. Each funding request should be carefully rents and services with grants. In addition to job evaluated to ensure that it is in keeping with the vision creation and generating activity, the goal is to facilitate for the Village. the growth and expansion of startup businesses within an area. 54 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 64 of 71 ON-SITE AND FAÇADE TRANSPORTATION AND THE ILLINOIS MOTOR FUEL TAX (MFT) FUND ILLINOIS TRANSPORTATION SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOLS (SRTS) PROGRAM IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM (ITEP) INFRASTRUCTURE The Village receives revenue from the Illinois Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Fund that can be applied to fund The Safe Routes to Schools (SRTS) program provides funding for the planning, design, and construction of An On-Site Improvement Program assists property With federal reimbursement, IDOT administers owners with upgrading their existing parking lots critical transportation infrastructure road projects. Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) infrastructure-related projects that will substantially TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT Per the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), improve the ability of students to walk and bike to and installing onsite landscaping. The program funds. ITEP funds have historically been available would apply to improvements to surface parking (TOD) FUNDING GUIDE these funds are derived from a tax on the privilege for up to 50 percent of the costs of right-of-way and school. SRTS projects are funded at 100 percent areas, privately owned open space, and other areas The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), in of operating motor vehicles upon public highways easement acquisition, and up to 80 percent of the with no local match required, with a funding limit not directly related to façade features. This could conjunction with the Regional Transit-Oriented and of operating recreational watercraft upon Illinois costs for preliminary engineering, utility relocations, of $250,000 for infrastructure projects and $100,000 function separately or in conjunction with a Façade Development Working Group, created the TOD waters, based on the consumption of motor fuel. construction engineering, and construction costs. ITEP for non-infrastructure projects. Eligible applications Improvement Program. Funding Guide to assist communities with the Each month a warrant is issued to each municipal eligible projects include: include: development of TOD. The document is intended treasurer in the amount of the municipality’s share of A Façade Improvement Program encourages projects to be used primarily by community and economic MFT Fund collected for the preceding month. Monthly ■ Pedestrian/bicycle facility projects that create ■ Sidewalk improvements that contribute to the economic revitalization and development practitioners throughout northern distributions are posted on IDOT’s website. an alternative transportation option for access ■ Traffic calming and speed reduction character of an area by providing financial and Illinois. to workplaces, businesses, schools, shopping ■ Pedestrian and bicycle-crossing improvements technical assistance for façade improvements. centers, and communities. Pedestrian/bicycle ■ On-street bicycle facilities Building façades, both individually and collectively, The guide includes a comprehensive directory of HIGHWAY SAFETY IMPROVEMENT facility projects can be new construction or contribute significantly to first impressions of an area. funding sources that serve TOD initiatives, including PROGRAM (HSIP) improvements to existing facilities. ■ Off-street bicycle and pedestrian facilities By implementing a Façade Improvement Program, programs for municipalities, government agencies, ■ Landscape/streetscape projects. ■ Secure bicycle parking systems The Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) current property owners are provided an opportunity non-profit organizations, and others that work to aims to achieve a significant reduction in traffic ■ Scenic beautification projects. ■ Traffic diversion improvements in the vicinity of to improve their outdated or failing structures without promote TOD. The Village should reference this guide fatalities and serious injuries on all public roads. schools having to relocate. regularly to understand application deadlines and ■ Conversion of abandoned railroad corridors to The HSIP is administered by the Federal Highway ■ Education programs and activities to increase eligibility requirements. trails. Administration (FHWA). To qualify for HSIP funds, a rates of walking and biking to school State must develop, implement, and update a state ■ Historic preservation and rehabilitation of historic ENTERPRISE ZONES transportation facilities. highway safety program (SHSP), produce a program The Illinois Enterprise Zone Program is designed to of projects or strategies to reduce identified safety ■ Vegetation management in transportation rights- stimulate economic growth and revitalization through problems, and evaluate the SHSP regularly. Eligible of-way. state and local tax incentives, regulatory relief, and local projects include pedestrian hybrid beacons ■ Archaeological activities relating to impacts from improved governmental services. The Zone became and roadway improvements that provide separation implementation of a transportation project. effective January 1, 2015, and is focused on industrial between pedestrians and motor vehicles, such as and commercial development. It has become a ■ Stormwater management control and water medians and pedestrian crossing islands. catalyst to economic vitality through occupancy pollution prevention or abatement related to of vacant facilities, growth of existing industries, highway construction or due to highway runoff. employment of residents, and overall economic ■ Reduce vehicle-caused wildlife mortality or growth. restore and maintain connectivity among terrestrial or aquatic habitats. ■ Construction of turnouts, overlooks, and viewing areas. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 55 For Public Comment Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure 03/05/2025 Page 65 of 71  SURFACE TRANSPORTATION BLOCK CONGESTION MITIGATION AND AIR QUALITY PARKS, TRAILS, AND ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES GRANT PROGRAM (STBGP) IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CMAQ) NATURAL RESOURCES (IDNR) OPEN SPACES AND INFRASTRUCTURE Surface Transportation Block Grant Program (STBGP) The Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) funds are administered by IDOT and allocated Improvement (CMAQ) program is a federally-funded administers several grant-in-aid programs to help RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM DCEO DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT to coordinating regional councils to be used for program of surface transportation improvements municipalities and other local agencies provide roadway and roadway-related items. STBGP funds designed to improve air quality and mitigate The Recreational Trails Program is a federally-funded public outdoor recreational areas and facilities. The The 2024 DCEO Drainage Improvement Project aims may be used for a variety of projects, including congestion. The variety of transportation projects grant program for trail-related land acquisition, programs operate on a cost-reimbursement basis to to enhance stormwater management across various roadway rehabilitation, reconstruction, and funded through the CMAQ program encourage development, or restoration. The grants are awarded a government or not-for-profit organization. Local locations in the village. The project is currently in restoration; widening and adding lanes; intersection alternatives to driving alone, improve traffic flow, and based on the results of a competitive scoring process governments can receive one grant per program the bidding phase. The project will address drainage improvements; traffic signage improvements; help urban areas meet air quality goals through transit and the application’s suitability under MAP-21 per year, with no restrictions on the number of local issues in key areas, including the Ellsworth Ditch and green infrastructure funding. Projects must improvements, bicycle facility projects, or direct (Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act). governments that can be funded for a given location. and Ridge Road. Planned improvements include be identified in the Statewide Transportation emissions reduction projects. A minimum 20 percent match is required by the IDNR grants are organized into three major categories: the installation of storm sewers, manholes, and Improvement Program and be consistent with the applicant. Grants are to be used for motorized or Open Space Land Acquisition and Development, Boat catch basins, along with ditch reshaping, pavement Long-Range Statewide Transportation Plan and the non-motorized trail development, renovation, and/ Access Area Development, and the Illinois Trails Grant replacement, and sidewalk restoration. Funded by a Metropolitan Transportation Plan. PEOPLEFORBIKES COMMUNITY or preservation. All projects must be maintained for Program. DCEO Grant and the Stormwater Fund, this project GRANT PROGRAM 25 years. Eligible applicants include municipalities, is aimed to address the need for better drainage Urban STBGP funds are programmed and awarded to Colorado-based non-profit PeopleForBikes’ Bike counties, schools, non-profits, and for-profit OPEN SPACE LAND ACQUISITION AND infrastructure in these areas. communities by the region’s Metropolitan Planning Industry Community Grant Program supports businesses. DEVELOPMENT (OSLAD) PROGRAM Organization (MPO). Projects require a 20 percent match which is paid by the state and/or locally. bicycle infrastructure projects and targeted The Open Space Land Acquisition and Development ILLINOIS ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Generally, these funds may not be used on local roads initiatives that make it easier and safer for people LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION (OSLAD) program awards up to 50 percent of project AGENCY (IEPA) GRANTS of all ages and abilities to bike. The grant prioritizes or rural minor collector projects. Exceptions include FUND (LWCF) costs up to a maximum of $750,000 for acquisition and The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) infrastructure projects that improve a community’s $400,000 for development/renovation of recreational bridge and tunnel projects; safety projects; fringe Village Ratings score (PeopleForBikes’ index of a The Illinois Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) provides financial assistance for certain land, air, and facilities, such as playgrounds, outdoor nature areas, and corridor parking facilities/programs; recreational community’s bikeability) by building connections in program, similar to the Open Space Land Acquisition water-related projects. These grants offer funding campgrounds, fishing piers, park roads/paths, and trails, pedestrian, and bicycle projects; Safe Routes to a low-stress bikeway network or improving access to and Development (OSLAD) program, provides grants to keep drinking water safe and improve the water beaches. Village of Villa Park has secured OSLAD School projects; boulevard/roadway projects largely in recreational amenities. Grants between $5,000 and to municipalities, counties, and school districts to be quality of Illinois’ lakes, streams, and wetlands. awards of $600,000 for FY2024. the right-of-way of divided highways; and inspection/ $10,000 support the material costs of infrastructure used for outdoor recreation projects. Projects require evaluation of bridges, tunnels, and other highway a 50 percent match. ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION construction or non-material costs directly related and ILLINOIS TRAILS GRANT PROGRAMS assets. BLOCK GRANT (EECBG) PROGRAM necessary to getting infrastructure built. The Illinois Trails Grant Programs offer five financial This program supports long-term sustainability efforts SURFACE TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM (STP) The following entities are eligible for grants from PARK AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES assistance grants for the acquisition, development, for Illinois municipalities and counties by investing in and occasional maintenance of trails for public Surface Transportation Program (STP) is a PeopleForBikes’ Industry Community Grant Program. CONSTRUCTION (PARC) PROGRAM energy planning and reducing energy use. The second recreation uses. These programs include the Bike sub-program of the STBGP which provides funding All organizations must be based in the United States. The Park and Recreational Facilities Construction round of funding offers grants between $25,000 and Path Program, the Local Government Snowmobile for non-motorized transportation projects. Projects (PARC) program is a state-financed program with $150,000, with no matching funds required. However, ■ Non-profit organizations, including organizations Program, the Snowmobile Trail Establishment Fund, range from on-street bike facilities to multi-use paths grant funds offered to eligible local governments for municipalities receiving direct funding from the U.S. relying upon a fiscal sponsor for their nonprofit the Off-Highway Vehicle Program, and the Federal and sidewalk infill programs to Safe Routes to School park and recreation unit construction projects and DOE are not eligible. status. Recreational Trails Program. projects. Bicycle projects must be principally for land acquisition. Funded project amounts range from transportation rather than recreation. ■ Local or state government agencies or federal $25,000 to $2.5 million. IDNR administers these reimbursable grants under agencies working locally. a 50 percent state, 50 percent local cost share. There ■ Small businesses, such as bicycle retailers is a $200,000 maximum per project with $1 million in and community-oriented businesses serving grant funds available each year. Only off-road paths disadvantaged communities. and trails with a hard paved or aggregate surface are eligible. The grants can fund land acquisition for securing a linear corridor or right-of-way to be used for bicycle path development. 56 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 66 of 71  ACTION MATRIX PRIORITY LEVEL ENERGY EFFICIENCY ASSESSMENT PROGRAM SECTION 319(H) NONPOINT SOURCE This program provides grants ranging from $5,000 POLLUTION CONTROL FINANCIAL Each action item has been designated a priority level to $25,000 to public housing authorities, local ASSISTANCE PROGRAM The Implementation Action Matrix offers a to aid with implementation of Plan recommendations. governments, or nonprofits to conduct energy The Section 319(h) Nonpoint Source Pollution Control comprehensive list of all implementation strategies, Action item priorities are broken into three levels: efficiency assessments for eligible properties, such as Financial Assistance program aims to protect water policies, and recommendations contained within the single-family homes in environmental justice areas. ■ (1) - Actions that have immediate impact. quality in Illinois through the control of nonpoint Villa Park Comprehensive Plan. The matrix provides Applications are open until the funds are exhausted. Though not necessarily more important, items source pollution . NPS pollution generally results from Village staff with a tool to prioritize implementation land runoff, precipitation, atmospheric deposition, activities and projects over the life of the plan. In listed as priority 1 may have a fundamental ENERGY EFFICIENCY TRUST FUND GRANT PROGRAM drainage, seepage or hydrologic modification. The addition, the matrix allows the Village to approve impact on the community, may be more easily Designed to fund energy efficiency improvements, this completed, or may be necessary for long-term program includes providing funding to groups specific, actionable items on an annual basis grant targets properties in environmental justice areas. projects to begin. to implement projects that utilize cost-effective and evaluate progress based upon completed Eligible projects range from $25,000 to $500,000, and a best management practices on a watershed scale. implementation strategies. While partners are not ■ (2) - Actions that have interdependent needs. match is required. Grants are awarded on a first-come, Projects may include detention basins and filter identified for each action item in the Action Matrix, These items include strategic and substantial first-served basis, and the property must have an strips or erosion control ordinances and setback the Village may partner with a number of agencies, projects, actions that indirectly impact the quality energy audit completed within the past five years. zones. Technical assistance and information/ non-profits, and private entities to achieve the of life, and actions that require the completion education programs are also eligible. The IEPA funds objectives of this Plan. The Action Matrix offers a brief of other projects before they can begin. They PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY ENERGY approximately 15 projects per year, with a maximum description of each action or project, priority actions, may require additional planning, have additional EFFICIENCY GRANT PROGRAM funding award of 60 percent of total project costs, and and time frame. financial considerations, or include outside This program offers grants between $20,000 and the applicant provides the remainder as a match. agency cooperation. $500,000 to upgrade energy efficiency at public water ■ (3) - Actions that are desirable or supply facilities. Projects must be based on an energy aspirational. Though these items may not be assessment conducted in the last five years, with a necessary for the daily operations of the Village, required match from the applicant. they are representative of the community’s forward-looking planning approach. GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE GRANT OPPORTUNITIES (GIGO) PROGRAM PARTNERS The Green Infrastructure Grant Opportunities (GIGO) The Village will require the assistance of neighboring program funds green infrastructure projects and best government units, organizations, and community management practices that prevent, eliminate, or groups to fully implement the Comprehensive reduce water quality issues by decreasing stormwater Plan. Although the Village is primarily responsible runoff. The state-financed program offers $75,000 to for initiating and implementing the Plan’s policies $2.5 million grants. The program matches 75 percent and recommendations, numerous partnerships of costs, with 25 percent to be provided by the will be essential to realize the goals and supporting applicant. strategies outlined in the Plan. The partners section of the action matrix identifies potential partner organizations; however, there may be instances where an organization that is well-matched to one of the Plan goals, supporting policies, or recommendations is not listed as a potential partner for a given topic and should be added. DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 57 For Public Comment Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure 03/05/2025 Page 67 of 71  # ACTIONS PRIORITY PARTNERS LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT HOUSING AREAS AND NEIGHBORHOODS EXPAND HOUSING OPTIONS 03-01 Support mixed-use developments in key areas such as the Uptown District and Historic Ardmore District. Priority 1 03-02 Promote compact, higher-density senior housing along St. Charles Road. Priority 2 03-03 Offer incentives for affordable housing development. Priority 1 DuPage Housing Authority, DuPage Foundation 03-04 Identify infill development opportunities for missing middle housing. Priority 2 03-05 Prioritize housing near public transportation, commercial areas, and community facilities. Priority 1 03-06 Collaborate with partners to provide tax credits/subsidies for affordable housing. Priority 1 Illinois Housing Development Authority 03-07 Encourage universal design in housing. Priority 1 03-08 Expand assistance programs for accessible housing. Priority 2 MAINTAIN NEIGHBORHOOD CHARACTER AND APPEAL 03-09 Promote home renovation and upkeep to preserve neighborhood character. Priority 3 03-10 Prioritize infrastructure upgrades in established neighborhoods. Priority 1 IDOT, DuPage County 03-11 Engage residents to promote available neighborhood revitalization programs. Priority 2 Illinois Housing Development Authority, DuPage County 03-12 Develop guidelines for infill development that respects neighborhood character. Priority 1 03-13 Create educational materials regarding home renovation benefits and processes. Priority 3 PROMOTE HISTORIC PRESERVATION 03-14 Promote adaptive reuse of historic structures with a focus on mixed-use options. Priority 2 Property owners, Developers 03-15 Maintain and update an inventory of historic sites and buildings. Priority 2 03-16 Partner with local organizations to offer incentives for historic home restoration. Priority 3 Illinois Historic Preservation Agency ENSURE HOUSING SUSTAINABILITY 03-17 Promote higher-density housing in subarea districts/St. Charles Road. Priority 1 Villa Park Chamber of Commerce 03-18 Offer incentives for energy-efficient retrofits. Priority 2 03-19 Identify structurally sound vacant buildings for adaptive reuse. Priority 2 Villa Park Chamber of Commerce 03-20 Promote green building standards in new development. Priority 3 Property owners, Developers STREAMLINE DEVELOPMENT PROCESSES 03-21 Simplify code enforcement processes. Priority 3 03-22 Evaluate height limits in subarea districts/corridors. Priority 1 03-23 Enhance property maintenance standards. Priority 3 03-24 Encourage middle housing through incentives like density bonuses and streamlined permitting process. Priority 2 Property owners, Developers 03-25 Update zoning codes to allow high density and diverse housing types. Priority 1 58 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 68 of 71 # ACTIONS PRIORITY PARTNERS LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ENHANCE COMMERCIAL AREAS 03-26 Promote mixed-use redevelopment, where appropriate, incorporating experiential retail and entertainment. Priority 1 Villa Park Chamber of Commerce, Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) 03-27 Support residential integration in commercial redevelopment projects. Priority 2 03-28 Add pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to key commercial areas within the Village. Priority 1 IDOT 03-29 Support long-standing local businesses. Priority 2 03-30 Identify opportunities for lot consolidation. Priority 2 03-31 Integrate public art, streetscaping, and placemaking elements within commercial corridors. Priority 1 Property owners, Business owners 03-32 Enhance bus route amenities and time schedules. Priority 1 PACE 03-33 Collaborate to optimize transit routes for ridership. Priority 2 PACE 03-34 Promote outdoor seating. Priority 3 Property owners, Business owners IMPROVE INDUSTRIAL AREAS 03-35 Create landscaping buffer guidelines for industrial areas near residential zones. Priority 3 03-36 Develop incubator spaces within the Village. Priority 1 03-37 Collaborate with partner to market industrial area to businesses. Priority 1 DuPage County, Villa Park Chamber of Commerce 03-38 Encourage sustainable practices in industrial operations. Priority 2 Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) BRAND THE UPTOWN DISTRICT 03-39 Conduct TOD study for Uptown District. Priority 1 03-40 Pursue and encourage the development of a multi-dwelling/mixed-use near Metra station. Priority 1 03-41 Improve transit schedules and regional connectivity. Priority 1 IDOT, Metra, PACE 03-42 Upgrade pedestrian/bike infrastructure near the Metra Station. Priority 2 03-43 Encourage green infrastructure and green building practices in Uptown District. Priority 2 03-44 Establish "Uptown District" branding in Metra Station areas. Priority 2 ENCOURAGE A BUSINESS FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT 03-45 Actively market dining/entertainment within the subareas. Priority 2 03-46 Reuse and repurpose vacant storefronts. Priority 2 Property owners, Developers 03-47 Provide resources and workshops for small business owners, including assistance with digital marketing and storefront Priority 2 Villa Park Chamber of Commerce improvements. 03-48 Connect local businesses with grants, incentives, and other resources. Priority 3 DuPage County Economic Development Alliance, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) 03-49 Organize business roundtables. Priority 3 Villa Park Chamber of Commerce 03-50 Expand facade improvement grant programs. Priority 3 RELATIONSHIP TO SURROUNDING NEIGHBORHOODS 03-51 Assess current parking demand and capacity in high-traffic areas. Priority 1 IDOT, Villa Park Chamber of Commerce 03-52 Implement digital tools for real-time parking availability. Priority 1 03-53 Collaborate with partner to increase bus routes and service frequency. Priority 1 PACE, IDOT SUPPORT WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT 03-54 Partner with local businesses to prioritize hiring Villa Park residents. Priority 2 Villa Park Chamber of Commerce, local businesses 03-55 Organize local job fairs and provide resources for job postings. Priority 3 03-56 Collaborate with partners for workforce development. Priority 1 College of DuPage, Elmhurst University 03-57 Establish internship and apprenticeship programs. Priority 2 Villa Park Chamber of Commerce, local businesses 03-58 Coordinate with partner to promote franchise opportunities. Priority 2 Northern Illinois University 03-59 Offer workshops and upskilling opportunities for residents. Priority 2 DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 59 For Public Comment Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure 03/05/2025 Page 69 of 71  # ACTIONS PRIORITY PARTNERS TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY ROADWAY NETWORK 04-01 Coordinate with partners on roadway maintenance, improvements, and multimodal connectivity projects. Priority 1 IDOT, DuPage County 04-02 Reduce curb cuts along arterial/collector roadways and promote shared access. Priority 1 IDOT, Developers, Property owners 04-03 Evaluate feasibility of Addison Road grade-separated intersection with Metra. Priority 2 04-04 Evaluate feasibility of St. Charles Road diet for multimodal amenities. Priority 2 04-05 Monitor traffic patterns on local roadways. Priority 3 04-06 Implement traffic calming measures Village-wide. Priority 1 04-07 Collaborate with regional partners on corridor safety projects. Priority 2 04-08 Enhance streetscape design guidelines. Priority 2 ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION 04-09 Develop an active transportation system with interconnected paths, sidewalks, and bikeways. Priority 1 04-10 Ensure sidewalks provide access and mobility for all residents. Priority 1 IDOT, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) 04-11 Prioritize sidewalk improvements on major corridors.. Priority 1 04-12 Enhance pedestrian facilities during St. Charles Road road-diet evaluations. Priority 2 IDOT, adjacent municipalities 04-13 Install pedestrian safety measures at signalized intersections. Priority 1 IDOT, DuPage County 04-14 Add bicycle parking infrastructure to encourage bike travel. Priority 2 IDOT, local businesses, Developers 04-15 Install wayfinding signage for cyclists to local destinations and Metra stations. Priority 1 04-16 Work with partners to develop Safe Walking Route plans. Priority 1 School Districts 04-17 Execute improvements from the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. Priority 1 IDOT, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) 04-18 Support the adopted complete streets ordinance. Priority 1 PUBLIC TRANSIT 04-19 Work with partners on improving transit service/infrastructure improvements (bus shelters, ADA compliance). Priority 1 PACE 04-20 Coordinate with partners to explore Route 313 extension OR provide a new northside bus route. Priority 2 PACE, Neighboring Municipalities, Metra 04-21 Install bike-transit connection guides at shelters. Priority 3 04-22 Collaborate with partners to extend future Pace Pulse service on North Avenue and Roosevelt Road into Villa Priority 1 IDOT, Pace Park. 04-23 Incentivize EV charging station installations. Priority 2 Businesses owners, Property owners 04-24 Work with the Bike, Pedestrian, and Transit sub-committee of the Environmental Concerns Commission to Priority 2 Environmental Concerns Commission research and consider new services and technologies to reduce single occupancy vehicle trips. 04-25 Pursue agreements with car sharing companies and property owners to establish carshare services in Villa Park. Priority 3 Car sharing companies, property owners 60 Villa Park Comprehensive Plan DRAFT Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure For Public Comment 03/05/2025 Page 70 of 71 # ACTIONS PRIORITY PARTNERS COMMUNITY FACILITIES VILLAGE SERVICES 05-01 Create a staffing plan for Village operational capacity. Priority 1 05-02 Invest in shared service agreements to reduce costs. Priority 2 05-03 Analyze emergency response times for potential improvements. Priority 1 05-04 Support the Public Safety Cadet Program. Priority 3 05-05 Partner with hospitals to ensure full coverage for specialized healthcare access Priority 2 Elmhurst Memorial, Good Samaritan 05-06 Partner with community organizations and healthcare providers to develop preventative health initiatives and programs. Priority 2 Community Organizations, Elmhurst Memorial, Good Samaritan 05-07 Attract medical offices and clinics for specialized, senior, and mental healthcare. Priority 2 05-08 Work with school districts to create an inclusive educational system. Priority 1 School Districts 05-09 Work with school districts to ensure that high-quality public education is provided to the community. Priority 2 District 46, District 45 and District 88 05-10 Periodically review and update water and wastewater plans. Priority 2 05-11 Maintain coordination with utility providers to ensure the community is well-served. Priority 1 ComEd, Illinois American Water 05-12 Expand sidewalks to link commercial/residential areas. Priority 3 05-13 Consider public-private partnerships for streets division activities. Priority 2 05-14 Establish regular infrastructure maintenance schedules. Priority 1 PARKS AND RECREATION 05-15 Install modern playground equipment and outdoor exercise stations in parks. Priority 3 Villa Park Chamber of Commerce, local community organizations 05-16 Increase green spaces near central areas and Metra stations. Priority 1 Property owners, Developers 05-17 Implement regular tree maintenance and increase tree planting in parks. Priority 2 Villa Park Recreation Department 05-18 Amend zoning codes to require new developments to integrate public open spaces. Priority 1 05-19 Acquire lots suitable for pocket parks and tot lots in neighborhoods. Priority 2 05-20 Add seating and facilities in parks and public spaces for all age groups. Priority 2 Villa Park Recreation Department 05-21 Create community recreational spaces for families and residents of all ages. Priority 1 Villa Park Chamber of Commerce, local community organizations 05-22 Develop a signage plan for trails with wayfinding and informational signs. Priority 2 05-23 Upgrade trail features including lighting, benches, water fountains, and rest areas. Priority 2 05-24 Enhance trails with community gardens. Priority 1 05-25 Develop multi-use pathways connecting trails to schools and neighborhoods. Priority 2 CHARACTER AND IDENTITY 05-26 Develop a branding strategy to highlight Villa Park’s unique assets. Priority 1 05-27 Use decorative signage, lighting, and beautification elements to create inviting public spaces. Priority 3 Villa Park Chamber of Commerce, Discover DuPage 05-28 Build on the Village’s “Garden Village” branding efforts. Priority 2 05-29 Host community events to celebrate cultural diversity. Priority 2 05-30 Incorporate cultural elements such as local art into public spaces to foster community pride. Priority 2 05-31 Conduct regular surveys to assess and improve community events. Priority 2 05-32 Offer incentives to property owners to meet property maintenance standards. Priority 2 Businesses owners, Property owners 05-33 Celebrate and market the Village’s historic landmarks through pamphlets, social media, and newsletters. Priority 2 05-34 Encourage adaptive reuse of historic buildings to preserve their value. Priority 1 Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, Villa Park Historical Society 05-35 Maintain and regularly update a local register of historic properties and structures. Priority 1 05-36 Pursue National Park Designation along the Prairie Path in the Historic Ardmore District. Priority 3 Historical Preservation Commission DRAFT Villa Park Comprehensive Plan 61 For Public Comment Community Facilities and Public Infrastructure 03/05/2025 Page 71 of 71