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Geneva officials dug into a detailed presentation this week led by the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), which partnered with the city on a study of how downtown maintenance and improvements are funded.
Much of the discussion centered on Special Service Area #1 — the long-standing funding district that helps pay for things like snow removal, trash pickup, landscaping, and public parking maintenance in the heart of downtown — and whether it can keep up with rising costs.
Here’s what you should know:
SSA #1 is stable but tight. The district brings in a steady amount each year, but it isn’t keeping pace with what it costs to maintain downtown, meaning the city may eventually need to consider a modest levy increase or new revenue tools.
Metra ridership still lags. Daily commuter boardings remain well below pre-pandemic levels, reducing the steady foot traffic downtown businesses relied on before 2020.
Redevelopment options are emerging. Consultants highlighted some city-owned parcels (especially near the Metra station) that could serve as future redevelopment sites to strengthen the downtown tax base.
Public feedback points to everyday needs. Survey responses emphasized the need for public restrooms, better pedestrian safety on State Street, and more flexible employee parking options.
No formal actions were taken following the presentation.
Watch the full City Council and Committee of the Whole meeting recording (the RTA/SSA presentation begins at about 35 minutes).
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