Tinley Park, IL [October 7, 2023] – The Southland Development Authority (SDA), in partnership with Cook County, recently hosted a bus tour of the South Suburbs of Chicago, showcasing the substantial economic development efforts underway.
On October 6, 2023, the SDA conducted a bus tour of its transformative projects within the Southland, attracting participation from a diverse group of representatives and officials. The tour was graced by a delegate from the office of an Illinois State Representative, accompanied by several Cook County Commissioners. The local village leadership was prominently represented, including the Board President (Mayor) and Village Manager from the Village of Richton Park, along with the Mayor of the Village of Hazel Crest. From the educational sector, a board member of the Joliet Township High School Board #204 participated. The City of Kankakee’s involvement was marked by the presence of an Alderman, demonstrating the widespread engagement and collaboration in the SDA’s initiatives across various communities and government sectors.
The bus tour emphasized not only the achievements of the partnership between SDA and Cook County but also the immense potential for future economic investment in the South Suburbs. The tour visited the Cook County Forest Preserve, and other southland areas showcasing potential residential, commercial, and industrial redevelopment opportunities. It also included a visit to the national rail lines in Harvey, Illinois, highlighting the region’s significant transportation, distribution, and logistics infrastructure.
A key highlight was the tour of potential housing investments near Amazon IGQ1 in Markham/Harvey, IL. Attendees also visited the Free-N-Deed Market in Dolton, Illinois, a unique real estate investment supported by SDA’s Business Growth Services Program. This innovative food bank, designed to resemble a traditional market, aims to provide a dignified shopping experience for those in need. Additionally, the tour showcased SDA’s Harvey Housing Initiative housing investments in Harvey, Illinois, a pivotal effort to convert abandoned properties into affordable homes. This initiative is enhancing property values and contributing to tax stability in the region. Attendees were able to see the new homes in Harvey, witnessing firsthand the transformative impact of neighborhood revitalization.
This recent tour follows a similar successful one held on June 7th, which included President Toni Preckwinkle of the Cook County Board of Commissioners.
About Southland Development Authority
The Southland Development Authority is a nonprofit business organization launched in 2019 by business, civic, and political leaders from around the Southland who recognize the potential of the region’s people, businesses, and real estate. Our mission is to bring the resources and capacity needed to achieve transformative, inclusive economic growth for the south suburbs with a focus on investments in the Southland’s communities, industry, housing, and workforce.
We work steadfastly to connect Southland business owners, investors, and individuals with key resources to operate and thrive in the region, from equipping mid-size and small businesses in our Business Growth services Program with customized advice and consulting services, to helping local residents access the tools needed to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. With a deep institutional knowledge of the Southland’s people, markets, and history and our multifaceted, experienced team, the Southland Development Authority is a powerful partner for any individual, business, or investor.
For further details on the bus tour and the highlighted initiatives, please refer to the accompanying video link: Bus Tour Video.