Norridge village leaders say a master plan is being developed in 2026 that includes transforming the former Divine Savior church property into a village center for municipal and police, as well as a community center.
“As we look ahead to 2026, the Village of Norridge is focused on thoughtful planning, fiscal responsibility, and continued investment in our community,” said mayor Dan Tannhauser. “From major infrastructure improvements to long-term planning efforts like the former Divine Savior property, we are taking a careful, forward-looking approach that reflects both current needs and future goals.”
According to Village Administrator Joseph La Margo, a major focus for this year is for the village to develop a comprehensive plan for the former Divine Savior property, at 7740 W. Montrose. The plan is expected to explore potential uses, including construction of a new Village Hall, police department and community center, along with open space for special events, limited residential development, and locally owned retail.
Public meetings are planned, and a neighborhood-based Steering Committee is being formed to ensure community input. Asbestos abatement at the site of the shuttered Catholic church was completed in 2025, and the village is preparing a demolition request for proposals, La Margo explained in an email to Pioneer Press.
Additionally, he said the village completed over $3 million in infrastructure improvements last year, with approximately $1.6 million of that funded through grants. Projects included water main replacements, street resurfacing on approximately 10 streets, sewer and stormwater upgrades, replacement of roughly 1,100 residential water meters, tree planting, and other critical improvements.
Replacement of the Olcott pumping station, near Village Hall, also began in 2025 and is scheduled for completion this year. This work represents an approximately $4 million investment over two years to replace pumps that are more than 50 years old and have reached the end of their useful life, La Margo said.
“Looking ahead, the Village anticipates investing an additional $2 to $3 million in infrastructure projects in 2026,” he explained. “This includes planning for a streetscaping initiative to enhance the Business District near the mall, as well as work toward an intergovernmental agreement with the Village of Harwood Heights to address shared street improvements.”
The village manager said Norridge revenues increased by approximately $3 million last year, while total expenses went up by approximately $100,000.
“What residents may not always see is the operational work happening behind the scenes,” said La Margo. “We have been focused on modernizing internal processes, improving efficiency through automation, and positioning the organization to deliver services more effectively. That work will continue in 2026, starting with further modernization efforts in the Building Department.”
In village leaders’ efforts to bolster community engagement, several new special events were born in 2025, including the Pumpkin Smash, craft shows, cruise nights, and the Reindeer 5K Run.
And, local activities are planned this year to coincide with the U.S. turning 250.
“Overall, the Village remains focused on thoughtful planning, reinvestment, modernization, and community engagement as it moves into 2026,” La Margo said.
