to blend modern residential demand with lifestyledriven placemaking, creating neighborhoods that feel both functional and uniquely connected to land and community. Support from residents, especially those closest to the project area, has been a priority. The city has engaged HOA leadership within the neighboring subdivision, keeping them informed and involved in planning and reporting strong support for the direction and vision of Riverside Commons. Beyond hospitality and recreation, Loves Park’s broader economic base includes healthcare and aerospace-adjacent industry. The city points to major employers and regional drivers such as Collins Aerospace and Woodward, along with the network of subsidiary and supplier businesses that support the aerospace ecosystem. Loves Park continues to pursue lighter industrial opportunities and employment growth through targeted areas that support incentives, including a TIF-supported industrial corridor and additional tools designed to attract investment. The city’s incentive model is directly aligned with its revenue structure. In addition to the advantage of not levying a municipal property tax, Loves Park can offer benefits such as enterprise zone incentives, including sales tax relief on eligible building materials, and business district structures that can support retail development through targeted sales tax participation. Leadership cited a notable example in the Riverside Commons area: Costco, which opened in 2019 and became an exceptionally strong anchor for sales tax revenue during a period when essential retail remained active. The city structured a sales tax-sharing agreement to bring the project across the finish line, viewing it as a long-term win for both the development and the city’s broader fiscal sustainability. While development and economic strategy are central, Loves Park also prioritizes civic amenities and community life. Signature events bring residents together and build a sense of shared identity. The Light Up the Parks Parade, held in partnership with neighboring Machesney Park, has been a community tradition for nearly three decades, featuring dozens of floats, a tree lighting, and fireworks.The city has also evolved its summer programming into Rhythm of the Heart, a music festival with vendor participation, food trucks, sponsorship support, and attendance that has grown into the thousands. For Loves Park, these events are not simply entertainment—they are part of the community glue that strengthens belonging and pride. Workforce development is also viewed as a community priority, particularly through alignment with local schools. Mayor Jury and Bruck describe strong support for a trades-focused initiative within the Harlem School District, including community backing and collaboration with building trades and manufacturing partners. They see career-path education as increasingly essential, especially as 77 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02 LOVES PARK, IL
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