2022 July/August Newsletter
No Stopping Ideas for Downtown
Glenview residents have a passion for energizing downtown and they freely shared their ideas for “What Does Downtown Glenview Need?” with us at Summer Fest. A few fan favorites were:
* No empty storefronts
* Lunch restaurants (salads)
* Cafes with outdoor dining
* Restaurants with kid activities
* Breakfast restaurant
* Mini Golf/Arcade/Roller rink
Our raffle also was a hit with great prizes from Glenview Grind, Forza, Grandpa’s, Ten Ninety, Oil Lamp Theater and City Kid Theatre.
The ideas are inspiring as we all look to activate available spaces downtown. Let’s keep the dialog going at the Glenview Farmers Market, Saturday, July 30. See you there!
Why Can’t Downtown Be More Like…?
We hear you asking “why can’t downtown be more like…? ” To find out, FDG Committee members recently attended a “behind the scenes” tour of a remarkably successful suburban downtown revitalization.
In years past, Downers Grove was known for its compact historic main street and local character. Through the efforts of community activists, working with local merchants and boards, it’s now bustling with new restaurants, micro-breweries and music spots.
Local planners used methods like those included in Glenview’s new Downtown Plan, and the community effectively collaborated to allow additional density in residential 4-5 story buildings on streets bordering the historic area. Moreover, with community input, new design standards and review processes were implemented to guide new development with architectural enhancements.
The tour, which was sponsored by the Municipal Design Review Network, provided real-world inspiration for what is possible in our downtown. Photo courtesy of Chaddick Institute/MDRN
More Than a Daydream
A little rain didn’t stop thousands of residents from enjoying Glenview Chamber’s Summer Fest 2022! The crowd’s energy was electric and full of joy as businesses and residents alike engaged in the annual downtown community event, with nearly 100 local businesses and booths, alongside the Glenview Fire Department’s famous fire pole, and concessions and games for kids of all ages!
The evening portion of this memorable day ushered in Summer Fest After Sunset, debuting a stellar night of music featuring fan favorite Freddy Jones Band, with local talent Satellite Union kicking off. Fueled by the lively music, new and longtime residents sang along side by side. Cold beer and wine from premier sponsors Glenview House and Coors Light and tasty bites from some of Glenview’s finest eateries added to the convivial mood, making it all more than a daydream.
Friends of Downtown Glenview
Help Wanted: FDG is looking for energetic volunteers to help with various downtown initiatives including event coordinators. Please fill out this simple volunteer form and we will contact you to discuss how you can help.