Economic Development

We are committed to fostering sustainable growth by leveraging powerful tools such as our Enterprise Zone and two active Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts. Through strategic management of city-owned properties and close collaboration with developers, we create a business-friendly environment that supports investment, revitalization, and long-term prosperity for our community.

What is Economic Development?

  • Business Retention: Keeping existing businesses in North Chicago is a key economic development initiative.
  • Business Recruitment: Staff work to actively recruit new businesses to suitable locations in the city by advertising the city's many assets and opportunities.
  • Property Improvement: Existing properties need to be routinely updated and retrofitted to meet the needs of a changing economy.
  • Beautification: Having a visually appealing city encourages residents and visitors to be active participants in the community and its economy.
  • Placemaking: North Chicago is a culturally rich community. Residents and visitors should be able to experience the culture throughout the town.

City Owned Surplus Real Estate

The city is not currently disposing of any surplus real estate. Information will be posted here as new bid opportunities are announced. Please call 847.596.8650 with any questions.

Enterprise Zone

The Waukegan-North Chicago Enterprise Zone provides additional tools for economic development within the city. Notably, this designation allows permitted developments to apply for sales tax exemptions on building materials (Building Material Tax Exemption Application). To learn more about Enterprise Zones, visit the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. These tools are only available for properties located within the designated Waukegan-North Chicago Enterprise Zone.

Tax Increment Financing Districts

The city has two active Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts: Sheridan Crossing and Skokie Highway. TIF Districts provide an additional tool to stimulate development in designated areas through the use of future increases in property tax revenue. 

Find Commercial Real Estate

Economic Development Projects
Non-Residential Appearance Code
The City of North Chicago is excited to be working with its consultant, Kimley-Horn and Associates, to develop a new set of design standards to guide future non-residential or mixed-use developments within the city. Over the next couple of months, our team will be drafting up these proposed standards to regulate the exterior of new or redeveloped buildings and ensure that the quality and aesthetic of future developments match our community values and vision. Examples of the types of regulations which may be considered include permitted exterior building materials, exterior colors, window placements, entrance treatments, and building articulation, among many others.
Sheridan Crossing Market Study
The Department of Economic and Community Development is working with Development Planning Partners and Antero Group to do a detailed market study of the Sheridan Crossing site adjacent to Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and Sheridan Road. The completed market study will give the City an understanding of the types of future development that would best support the local economy while providing the most needed amenities to residents and visitors alike.