News-Gazette, Town Hall #5: Growing Urbana
Urbana, IL (News-Gazette)—Urbana business owner MATT CHO, asks: Both candidates have emphasized the importance of growing Urbana. If elected Mayor, what are your top one or two economic development priorities, and what specific strategies would you implement to achieve them?
“Urbana is a city enriched by innovation, arts, and vibrant cultures. As Mayor, my top economic development priorities will be to create a safe, affordable, and connected community while fostering businesses, engaging entrepreneurs, and attracting investments.
“My administration will prioritize safety, accessibility, and affordability to ensure Urbana remains attractive to residents and businesses. We will enhance walkability, bikeability, and public transit to foster connections and make Urbana easier to navigate. A growing and diverse population will strengthen the tax base, reduce costs per household, and support high-quality services from public works, fire, and police departments.
“To make Urbana a business-friendly city, we will work with existing businesses and entrepreneurs to address their needs. Our priorities will be revitalizing downtown and enhancing commercial corridors like Green Street, Philo Road, Lincoln Avenue, and the Kickapoo Rail Trail. These areas will feature accessible dining, entertainment, and retail options that attract residents and customers from the University of Illinois, nearby medical facilities, and surrounding cities; and be conveniently reachable by foot, bike, transit, or car.
“Key strategies include updating the zoning ordinance to align with Urbana’s new Comprehensive Plan and leveraging tools like Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts and Enterprise Zone tax abatements to attract new home construction and business investments. We will also pursue grants to improve infrastructure and services, ensuring Urbana grows sustainably. Additionally, we will collaborate with the Urbana School District, Urbana Park District, and The Urbana Free Library to serve residents better and attract new families.”
—ANNIE ADAMS
