The Land Use & Economic Development Committee in Joliet, Illinois, has endorsed a proposal to financially aid downtown businesses affected by ongoing construction. This initiative will be considered by the full City Council.
In December, the City Council introduced the Chicago Street Business Continuity Grant Program. It aims to provide financial support to businesses within a construction zone that commenced in May 2024, allowing them to recover up to 50% of lost sales, capped at $100,000 annually. A similar program was previously implemented in nearby Lockport with positive results.
So far, six local businesses have received grants ranging from $5,500 to $20,600, sanctioned by the City Manager for amounts below $25,000. Recently, the committee reviewed two applications for grants exceeding this threshold. Economic Development Director Paulina Martínez discussed applications from Cut 158 and Juliet’s Tavern, requesting $52,770.84 and $32,747.95, respectively.
Chairman Cesar Cardenas emphasized the need to support businesses during the construction, expected to conclude by the end of 2025. "We need to retain these businesses, which not only create jobs but also generate sales tax revenue for the city," he stated. The committee, including Councilman Cesar Guerrero, unanimously recommended the grant approval. Councilman Pat Mudron, also on the committee, was not present.
Alerts Sign-up