Mayor Leon Rockingham, who is serving his sixth term and has lived in the community all of his life, shares, “Naturally, I’ve seen a lot of changes, some good, some bad.What best reflects what is happening in the city of North Chicago is the diversity that is taking place and the economic development that we’re targeting to put in place for our community.” A CRUCIAL ANCHOR Mayor Rockingham notes that Naval Station Great Lakes is a major driver of North Chicago’s economy, graduating between 800 and 1,200 recruits weekly. “Their parents come in to watch their son or daughter graduate, and that gives us an excellent opportunity to capture those dollars into North Chicago,” he expands. “That, to me, is a vital part of bringing economic development into our community.” The city’s relationship with the base goes far beyond economics. Collaboration on public works, law enforcement, and community outreach has created a strong partnership. Gregory Jackson, Chief of Staff and a former Marine, highlights, “Our relationship with the Navy and the Navy command staff at Naval Station Great Lakes is exceptional. I think that adds to our ability to get things accomplished.” This partnership also gives North Chicago a strong voice at state and federal levels. “We’re working on intergovernmental agreements with that base to allow them to tap our resources at a better expense to the public,” Jackson continues. “When people are looking to do business in North Chicago, we have an opportunity to deliver goods and services as a city to that naval base using private contractors.” REVITALIZING DOWNTOWN When it comes to development, much of the city’s focus centers on Sheridan Road, a bustling corridor that runs through the community. Taylor Wegrzyn, Director of Economic Development, describes,“That is where our historic downtown is. There’s a three block segment there with nearly limitless potential.” Sheridan Crossing, located at the intersection of Sheridan Road and another of the city’s primary commercial corridors, is under environmental remediation.The 41-acre site,once home to a foundry, 97 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 10 NORTH CHICAGO, IL
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