Reimagining business districts for the future of retail.

City of Evanston, IL - Communications, Engagement + Placemaking

Creating an action strategy in a post-pandemic, Amazon era requires data and creativity. We merged the two for this Retail District Action Plan to improve the quality and mix of retail, food, and entertainment offerings in Evanston's eight business districts. In partnership with the City of Evanston and the planning team, we helped tell the stories of each district through custom hand-drawn illustrations to engage the public and begin to forge the identity of each place. Through digital and intercept campaigns, paired with pop-up events, focus groups, workshops, and surveys, we mobilized the entire Evanston community to plan for the future of these districts. The result? Unanimous Council approval of the Action Plan, $3M of dedicated fund to help in its implementation, and a beautiful new brand that celebrates all that Evanston has to offer.