On June 17, 2025, the Planning and Development Department hosted a Developer’s Forum with 57 attendees at Papa Del’s Pizza Factory. The forum provided updates on several city initiatives. Eric Van Buskirk, Senior Planner, gave an overview of the Downtown Plan update process and market analysis. Fire Chief Andy Quarnstrom discussed the intent and benefits of updated requirements for emergency vehicle access for new developments. T.J. Blakeman, Planning Manager for Economic Development, highlighted key projects to be completed through the Capital Improvement Plan.
The Planning and Development Department reinstated the Developer’s Forum in 2025 following a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This move aligns with recommendations from the Development Services Audit. The Developers Forum convenes three times annually for lunch meetings focused on learning and networking. These gatherings include members of the local development community, city elected leaders, city staff, and representatives from community-serving institutions such as the Champaign County Economic Development Corporation and Unit 4 Schools.
For those interested in receiving development updates, there is an option to subscribe to the City’s new development newsletter.
