Dear Norwood Park Members, Business Owners and Residents: 

Our Chamber continues its quest to promote progress in NorwoodPark! The year began with the completion of the Task Force Report on Northwest Highway which marked the end of a year of comprehensive study of NorwoodPark's business corridor. The report was very highly praised by all who read it and now, nine months later, is highly requested by those interested in starting a new business in our area. Special thank you to Randy Rollinson and Susan Kroll for spearheading the project.

In the spring of 2007, the UICCityDesignCenter students and faculty, working with a number of our Chamber Board members, completed a more comprehensive study of specific business sectors that would be recommended for Northwest Highway. There were a number of surprises—the results of these reports are posted on the Chamber website : norwoodpark.org. A truly eye-opening description of the possibilities for reviving the area's major throughway, the North Northwest Highway, between Harlem and Nagle Avenues!

Our Chamber was successful in obtaining a "wet" status for several NorwoodPark precincts thanks to the efforts of Corrine Schreiber and Sandi Abrajano. This new ordinance will, hopefully, encourage establishing of new restaurants! The community has expressed its wish to enjoy fine dining with a glass of wine close to home.

The Chamber is anxiously awaiting the completion of three major projects in NorwoodPark’s core business district:

(1) The Chamber received the final grant from the State of Illinois for completion of the Norwood Park Train Station. A separate Foundation Board was established from Chamber members and community leaders to complete the work. We are anticipating the completion of the train station renovation in November of this year and we are currently seeking a business to occupy all or part of the historic building.

(2) Zittela Builders is developing a key project at 6060 Northwest Hwy with a mix of 42 living units and 6,000 sq ft of retail space on the main floor. Zittella anticipates their project will be completed in 2009.

(3) Norwood Crossing, formerly Norwood Park Home, has received zoning approval to start the largest building project in the community ($110 million) with the addition of 139 independent living apartments and 55 assisted living apartments. Plans also include complete renovation of the nursing center.

Our Chamber continues to serve Norwood Park by promoting existing businesses and working to bring new businesses to our area. Be part of the progress—join the Norwood Park Chamber of Commerce in its quest for a vibrant community!

Michael Kinsch,

 President