A recent survey undertaken on the amount of commercial retail space available in Woodridge revealed a 6.36% vacancy rate – a rate well below the current 11.8% shopping center vacancy rate for the Chicago area and a decrease from the Village’s rate in December 2009.  The survey was conducted by the Village of Woodridge’s Community Development Department surveying retail shopping center buildings located in the Village of Woodridge. 
 
The survey revealed that Woodridge has retained existing businesses and has even experienced continued growth despite the current economic conditions.  Examples of this include Main Street at Seven Bridges, where Eggstacy restaurant is anticipated to complete construction and open this summer.  Restaurants such as Buffalo Wild Wings, Aureilio’s Pizza, Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery, Suprarossa, and Blue Ginger continue to flourish in the pedestrian friendly development, with some locations planning or expressing interest in expanding their business.

Near 75th Street and Lemont Road, Woodgrove Festival shopping center plays host to the Hollywood Boulevard Cinema, which is currently undergoing its second expansion to add an additional auditorium, reconfigure the atrium, and add a restaurant – the Formosa Café.  Continued growth and investment by businesses in Woodridge during a challenging economy is a testament to the strength of Woodridge’s business community.  “We have been very successful in Woodridge,” said Hollywood Boulevard Cinema owner Ted Bulthaup, “that success has led to our expanding and improving our business.”

“We are encouraged to see that Woodridge’s retail vacancy rates have stayed low – and are trending in the opposite direction of the overall Chicago market,” said Woodridge Mayor Bill Murphy.  “To have this occur during an economically difficult time reflects very well on the strength of the Woodridge market, and the residents who have supported local stores through the Shop Local campaign.”