City Spotlight: Elmhurst, IL

Home to nearly 45,000 people, the City of Elmhurst offers a dynamic mix of location, rail-based transportation and business-friendly tools that make it one of DuPage County’s most attractive locales. Recently named a “Top 10 Town for Families” by Family Circle magazine, Elmhurst is ideal for your business, your family and your life. A vibrant downtown and unique business district combined with a regional hospital, Liberal Arts College, local museums and top-rated schools and parks are what make Elmhurst a hub of activity on the eastern edge of DuPage County. Elmhurst’s close proximity to O’Hare (10 miles) and Midway Airport (17 miles) is a key advantage, while easy access to I-290, I-294 and I-88 provide gateways to every Chicagoland destination. Busy commuters benefit from the Metra Union Pacific West Line, located in the heart of downtown Elmhurst. A business-friendly climate continues to drive new growth within the City of Elmhurst. Multiple TIF districts, facade grants up to $50,000, a Community Business Development Grant up to $10,000 and personalized site selection assistance are just a few examples of the resources available. DuPage County’s third largest Chamber of Commerce and a skilled Economic Development team focus on business attraction and retention. Expert knowledge of the retail, commercial and business park landscapes, combined with data to drive decisions and marketing resources, help boost business growth. Elmhurst continues to attract new anchor businesses to the community. The recent Mariano’s market opening highlights a renewed focus on the north side of town, while Whole Foods is planning a Spring 2015 opening on the west side of Elmhurst. The latest community development report lists more than 20 current commercial projects, which total nearly $40 million worth of investments. FUTURE DEVELOPMENT Hahn Street This premier project, located just south of North Ave. on York St., includes 188 ultra-luxury apartments and 12,000 SF of retail and restaurant space. The Hahn St. project will include a public events plaza with outdoor cafe-style seating, 150 parking spaces and an upscale stone/slate exterior. Addison St. Parking Garage This six-story, 65-foot tall structure will include 16,000 SF of retail along with 690 parking spaces. The Addison Deck is slated to be completed in late 2015. Explosive Residential Activity New home activity continues on a strong upward trend in Elmhurst, with a 40 percent increase in new home permits over 2013. In addition, Nitti Development has purchased the 11-acre site of the former Elmhurst Memorial Hospital and has plans for 56 new upscale homes.  North York Plan The North York Street Corridor Plan outlines the City’s vision and strategies for this 4th TIF district including improvements, re-development, beautification and overall revitalization of this vital corridor. Elmhurst Key Demographics Population – 44,758 Number of Households – 16,013 Average Household Income (2013) – $124,062 Number of Employees – 25,575 Median Housing Value – $360,000 Metra Union Pacific West Line Total Boardings – 694,000 Size in square miles – 10.25