Downtown Oak Park
Oak Park, IL
Challenge
In Oak Park, Illinois, noted for its Frank Lloyd Wright architectural gems, the downtown commercial district is comprised primarily of unique, locally owned businesses in a mix of historic buildings and new construction. The district is managed by Downtown Oak Park, a business association that oversees a business improvement taxing district and develops events and services to promote a successful business environment.
With growth bringing both benefits and challenges, and a major streetscape project about to bring a year’s worth of construction, Downtown Oak Park’s success in supporting local businesses through the changes required having a high-functioning board that was efficient, clear on its purpose, and inspired by the work. Downtown Oak Park hired Community Allies to guide the development of a compelling vision for downtown, informed by outreach to shoppers and business owners, and to refine governance policies and procedures to support the board in meeting its goals, including recruiting high-performing new members.
Approach
Community Allies designed online surveys of customers, business owners, and the board. Customer surveys gathered input on desired shopping and eating experiences and improvements to the downtown district, and on how brick and mortar stores can better align with modern shopping habits. The survey of business owners gathered data on top challenges to business stability and growth, business performance trends, and the effectiveness of Downtown Oak Park’s programs in supporting businesses. Finally, the survey of the board evaluated alignment around mission and vision and developed consensus around retreat goals.
Informed by the survey results and our expertise in growing vibrant, local commercial districts, we led the board in a retreat where they envisioned the future of downtown and strategized around Downtown Oak Park’s role in bringing it to fruition. We provided training in association board best practices and guided board members to identify what board skills and commitments would achieve the future they desired. Following the session, Community Allies provided a report that synthesized the meeting findings and provided recommendations for amendments to programs and governance.
Results
A year-long construction project and COVID-19 followed quickly on the heels of Community Allies’ work with Downtown Oak Park. Because of their greater clarity on goals and roles, the organization was better prepared to support their businesses through many challenges they faced. The vision they had developed guided their emergency efforts.
Put Community Allies to work for you
Share this story: