Shop, Dine, Live, Play & Repeat

A conversation with Erin Venezia, executive director of DG Downtown Management Corp.

BY ANNE HEALY PHOTOGRAPH BY CAROLINA MENAPACE

Associate publisher Anne Healy spoke to Erin Venezia, executive director of Downers Grove Downtown Management Corp., regarding how the non-profit helps foster a diverse retail and shopping environment for residents and visitors alike.

How did Downers Grove Downtown Management Corp. begin?

In 1997, the village created a special service area, wherein property owners within this zone would pay a special tax to fund the downtown management corporation. As a non-profit, the organization was formed to promote the development and expansion of businesses, and to increase property values within this special service area. By focusing on new business expansion and retention, event production and event marketing, the downtown management team looks to provide value to both our business partners and the residents of Downers Grove. Has the downtown changed during your tenure?

During my 12-year tenure as part of the downtown management team, I have seen many businesses come and go, as well as the number of residential buildings increase. One element has remained the same, however: downtown Downers Grove maintains a historical element and a sense of community, while also progressing with time.

What are some of the events that Downers Grove Downtown Management Corp. is responsible for?

Each season brings unique events to the downtown business district. In the spring, we will host our second "Staycation Education Spring Break," followed by the sidewalk sale this coming summer. We partner with the Rotary Club of Downers Grove on Halloween window painting, which is always a huge hit with our residents. The gingerbread festival and visits with Santa also receive extremely positive feedback from the community. Personally, what are some of your favorite events?

I have favorite elements about each event. We recently concluded Ice Fest. During the long winter, it certainly lightens up spirits with live ice carvings and amazing sculptures around downtown. This coming spring, we will host the Wine Walk, which is a fantastic event allowing attendees to uncover many businesses that they never knew existed. The Fine Arts Festival in September always showcases talented local artists. Finally, one of our most popular events is the Summer Nights Classic Car Show. For many, this has really become a family affair on Friday nights [in the summer] to look at the classic cars, while enjoying live music at the Main Street train station.

What is in store for the coming year?

Be sure to check out a few of our latest additions, including Wasabi Restaurant & Bar, Sweet Jane and Skin Med Spa. We also look forward to welcoming the Foxtail restaurant and Yoga Six later this year.