INITIATIVES & PROJECTS
Grow Gillespie is dedicated to a five-year vision plan for the revitalization of the downtown district that includes the following initiatives and projects.
Grow Gillespie has adopted a strategic action plan that has the identified streetscape improvements as a top priority to support a livable and economically healthy downtown. Our vision plans support the streetscape experience as we work diligently towards transforming the downtown public realm into a cohesive, inviting, and thriving environment that benefits the community.
Our Vision & Mission: The Colonial Giving Garden is a place where we can build friendships and promote health, well-being, and sustainability in our community, while creating a welcoming space for all, with a focus on our organic gardening and giving back.
Want to learn more about the garden?
Whether it's the Annual Downtown Gillespie Sparkle Holiday festivities and tree lighting or the Route 66 Chicken and Beer Dance, this group has been creating opportunities for our downtown to SPARKLE during the holiday season through curated events that highlight our businesses and community outreach opportunities.
Gillespie, on historic Route 66, has a rich history and is the proud home of the Illinois Coal Museum, where the essence of the coal mining industry and the worldwide ascendance of organized labor are on display. The museum's curator, Dave Tucker, heads up the History and Tourism committee, which promotes our historic and tourism partnerships.