What is a Comprehensive Plan and how does it benefit me?
A comprehensive plan is a community’s big-picture guide for the future. It helps places like Woodridge decide how to grow, improve, and take care of the needs of everyone who lives and works there. The comprehensive plan looks at what the community wants to be in the future and then lays out steps to get there, so it grows in a smart, organized way that benefits everyone. It covers things like:
Where people should live: It plans for different types of housing, from single-family homes to apartments, and makes sure there’s enough for everyone
Where businesses should go: It highlights areas where businesses can thrive, whether it’s shops, offices, or industrial businesses, and makes sure they have what they need, like roads and utilities.
Creating a good business environment: It promotes vibrant commercial areas where businesses can attract customers. This makes it easier for new businesses to start and existing ones to expand, boosting the local economy and providing more job opportunities.
How land should be developed: Woodridge has many developable sites, and this plan will create a community-driven vision for the development of these sites.
How to get around: It looks at roads, bike paths, sidewalks, and public transportation to make it easier and safer for people to move around.
Protecting parks and nature: It ensures there are green spaces for people to enjoy and that the environment is protected for future generations.
Making life better for everyone: It guides us toward providing essential services to the community and advises the village on keeping neighborhoods safe and welcoming.
How does a Comprehensive Plan benefit me?
I am a Woodridge resident who moved to the community five years ago. I have two kids that go to school at Thomas Jefferson. I work remotely for my job that’s based in Chicago. How does a comprehensive plan benefit me?
Enhanced Quality of Life: The plan focuses on making your neighborhood safe, clean, and enjoyable, with better parks, schools, and public services.
Housing Affordability: It works toward creating a range of housing options, from single-family homes to apartments, making sure everyone has a place to live, regardless of income.
Improved Transportation: Better roads, bike lanes, and public transit options make it easier to commute, shop, and enjoy local amenities.
Environmental Sustainability: The plan may include initiatives to conserve natural resources and green spaces, ensuring you live in a healthier, more sustainable environment.
I am a Woodridge resident who moved to the Village 30 years ago. I’m retired and I love to bike and go on hikes. I’m looking to downsize my house now that I no longer have children living with me, and I would really like to have better access to community amenities. How does a comprehensive plan benefit me?
Access to Services & Amenities: The comprehensive plan will ensure the Village knows what services you want and need, such as healthcare and senior-specific programs, enhancing your quality of life.
Walkability & Transit: By improving sidewalks, pedestrian safety, and transit options, it makes getting around easier, whether you're walking to nearby stores or using public transportation.
Housing Options: The plan includes strategies for affordable and accessible housing, allowing you to downsize or find housing that fits your needs as you age.
Community Engagement: Opportunities for social interaction and participation in community activities are prioritized, helping you stay connected and active.
I am a small business owner that lives in nearby Naperville. I’m looking for a new space for my business and I’ve been eyeing Woodridge. How does a comprehensive plan benefit me?
Economic Development: A comprehensive plan fosters a business-friendly environment, creating strategies to attract customers and other businesses to the area, boosting foot traffic and potential sales.
Zoning & Infrastructure: It provides clarity on zoning laws and ensures the necessary infrastructure (roads, utilities) is in place to support your business growth.
Community Identity: Efforts to create a distinct, cohesive community identity attract tourists and locals alike, making it easier for your business to thrive in a vibrant commercial district.
Workforce Support: The plan may prioritize workforce housing and transit improvements, helping employees live and commute within the community, reducing staffing challenges.
I’m seven years old and I live in Woodridge. I go to Edgewood Elementary. My favorite places to go are Echo Point Park, the library, and Donut Co. How does a comprehensive plan benefit me?
More Fun Places: The comprehensive plan improves parks, playgrounds, and recreational spaces where you can play and have fun with friends and family.
Safer Streets: There are plans to make roads and sidewalks safer, so you can walk, bike, or play outside more safely.
Education & Programs: Schools and youth programs are supported, giving you more opportunities to learn and take part in after-school activities, sports, and community events.
A Greener Future: The focus on sustainability and protecting the environment ensures you'll grow up in a cleaner, greener community.
I’m a real estate developer that’s scoping out places to build a new townhouse development with a cluster of small retail stores nearby. How does a comprehensive plan benefit me?
Clear Guidelines & Opportunities: The comprehensive plan outlines zoning, land use, and development guidelines, giving you a clear understanding of where and what kind of developments are encouraged, reducing risk and uncertainty.
Transit-Oriented Development: With a focus on increasing density in key areas, such as near transit hubs or along transportation corridors, you’ll have opportunities to create mixed-use developments that cater to a growing population.
Support for Diverse Housing: The plan promotes a variety of housing options, from affordable units to luxury apartments, allowing you to tap into different market segments.
Community Buy-In: The plan helps create a sense of shared vision within the community, meaning developments that align with the plan are more likely to receive public and municipal support.