It is my pleasure to present this letter to Chamber members as a recap of activity and developments in our community during the past year. I can report to you without reservation that our village is strong and the outlook for continued prosperity is solid.
2018 found Elmwood Park in the enviable position of having several noteworthy awards that recognize our attributes and provide evidence of our desirability as a good place to live, work and play. First and foremost, we received important recognition from a prominent government financial organization for excellence in financial reporting and government transparency – always important to a strong business climate.
We also received recognition in two other national surveys on quality of life for our residents. The first found Elmwood Park ranked as one of the most desirable places to live in Illinois when measured for affordability, quality schools, low crime, and easy commute. Another national ranking saw us listed as one of the safest places to live in Illinois. I am proud of these achievements and I thank all of you for helping make them possible through your hard work.
On the development front, last year found us continuing to further develop the Village Circle. We opened the “Eggsperience” restaurant to add to the cadre of already thriving eateries. The Village also purchased three additional properties in the Circle that are now being developed into luxury residences. In 2018, Elmwood Park also became home to a Culver’s Restaurant on Grand Avenue.
Along North Avenue’s Restaurant Row, the village purchased three more houses that will be developed into public parking lots, expanding the parking options for patrons along this vibrant business district. Additionally, we showcased all of our fine eating establishments during national restaurant week in February. Elmwood Park received significant media exposure as a culinary mecca in the Chicago area.
For our residents, last year found Elmwood Park hosting numerous neighborhood festivals, concerts and other events. The village also made improvements to its parks and playgrounds and continues to invest in its streets and water system.
The work never ends, but it gives me great pleasure to make us the best we can be. We look forward to working with all of you—our business partners—during the coming year to continue to make Elmwood Park a community we are proud to call home!
Angelo “Skip” Saviano
Elmwood Park Village President