‘ALL TOGETHER ANTIOCH’ leaders and visionaries put reopening and recovery at the top of the mindset
ANTIOCH, Ill.– Leaders in Antioch have come together to boost economics, support local business and
connect community with an ever-evolving plan and the flexibility to adjust with the times. There is a great need to support local businesses through the economic perils of the coronavirus and to underscore the importance of community, with the mindset that founded the Village of Antioch. “All Together Antioch”.
“All Together Antioch” is a campaign that has a mission of supporting the community and businesses with resources and creative thinking that positively impacts residents and businesses bottom lines. The “All Together Antioch” campaign is being rolled out by the Village of Antioch. It is designed as a “work in progress”. As needs change and communities head into stages of reopening and recovery, the momentum and learnings will continue to be shaped, shared and executed.
Leaders from The Village of Antioch are working with Antioch Township and other municipalities to bring thoughts and insights forward.
“We have always supported our businesses and community and now it’s more important than ever before. One of the first steps is to heighten awareness,” said Community Development Director Michael Garrigan.
The Village is creating colorful signage throughout the community ensuring parking spots along Main Street and access to the downtown area, are clearly defined. The Village will be placing new wayfinding signage throughout its thoroughfares along with courtesy placards asking for curbside and “to-go” parking to remain open, particularly within the frontage of restaurants and eateries currently on shutdown. “We want to all work together. Even if it’s as simple as a reminder to hold open a spot for curbside pickup,” said Garrigan. “These businesses are our community’s lifeblood and we need to make sure we are keeping things viable.”
The Village and Antioch Township are working on an interactive map of all the downtown businesses and restaurants to give visitors and residents a better look into offerings, hours, and safety measures being taken. “This pandemic has highlighted just how critical it is for our small businesses to thrive and be supported. This resource will be a great tool for residents, visitors and businesses and as we grow and learn, we’ll adjust collateral and marketing as needed,” said Lawrence Hanson (Mayor of Antioch).
The Village and Antioch Township will evaluate the impact on small businesses through virtual public input sessions, asking owners their concerns, needs, and action plans, and ways the Village and Township can help support and deploy those plans. “We are working together. Our focus is to provide value, support and resources in timely, thoughtful and strategic ways to help everyone in our community thrive.
“I’m proud to be part of this campaign and look forward to all the insights,” said Tom Shaughnessy (Antioch Township Supervisor).
One of the cornerstones of “All Together” is the creation of an online “go-to” for resources and information. The Village’s website, homepage and pull-down areas provide a simple, user-friendly and one-stop for all-things local including a new, interactive map—-a where-to-shop, where-to-get great tastes to-go, curbside pickup, outdoor dining (weather permitting), special services, and more.
The “All Together Antioch” campaign will provide valuable input for steps the Village can take to assist the business community. If you would like to be involved and share your input, contact Michael Garrigan at mgarrigan@antiochil.gov. The Village of Antioch will continue offering support through this crisis and the ensuing recovery, advocating for the community, and proudly being “All Together Antioch.” You can stay connected and learn more at antioch.il.gov, or on Facebook.