The Village of Orland Park is moving forward with its long-awaited vision for a pedestrian-friendly downtown, as discussed during the recent Breakfast with the Mayor meeting on February 22, 2025. The ambitious project aims to revitalize the Main Street Triangle area, which has seen significant investment but remains largely undeveloped.

Mayor Keith Pekau highlighted the village's commitment to creating a vibrant downtown environment, noting that approximately $150 million has already been invested in public-private partnerships, land acquisition, and infrastructure improvements since the initiative began in 2004. The project is set to break ground this fall, with plans for over 140,000 square feet of new retail, restaurant, and entertainment space, while ensuring no additional residential units will be constructed.

A key component of the development is the establishment of a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district, which is designed to stimulate economic growth by allowing the village to capture future property tax increases to fund ongoing improvements. The current assessed value of properties in the proposed TIF district is $0, but officials project it could rise to approximately $45 million once the development is complete. Importantly, the TIF will not divert funds from local schools or other taxing bodies, ensuring they continue to receive their share of tax revenue.

The meeting also addressed the importance of traffic and parking management in the new downtown area. An independent parking study confirmed that the proposed development will exceed parking requirements during peak times, while a traffic study indicated that planned modifications to local roadways will accommodate increased traffic without compromising pedestrian safety.

As the village prepares to move forward, the community is encouraged to engage with the development process, which promises to enhance Orland Park's appeal as a destination for residents and visitors alike. The project not only aims to create a lively downtown atmosphere but also to foster economic growth and improve the quality of life for all residents.