Downtown Olde Palos  Development Plan

Welcome to the Olde Palos Development Plan's Project Page

Background

Palos Heights was first platted from 1935 to 1940. Throughout the development of the Palos Heights community, a four-block area of Harlem Avenue has served as the Commercial Business District, known as the "Olde Palos Shopping and Dining District" or "Olde Palos," which continues to serve as the commercial center.  Harlem Avenue has shifted from a two-lane roadway with on-street parking to a five-lane roadway in about 1975. 

Study Area

The Olde Palos development project site encompasses a 4-block area along Harlem Avenue between 122nd Street and 124th Streets.  In addition, to more fully understand connections to nearby neighborhoods and the rest of the business district, we will also be studying several block areas of influence around the corridor project area. 

Goals

The goals of this study are to provide an implementable plan scaled for this primary community node that prioritizes the following: 

1. Articulation of unified identity and thriving, long-term vision of Olde Palos Heights
2. Development of a desirable regional destination featuring a diverse mix of commercial, office, residential, restaurant, and retail uses. 
3. Public realm improvements to express the unique corridor character and promote additional ease of access, comfort and safety for patrons, neighbors, pedestrians, and cyclists. 

Consensus-Building

Soliciting input is a critical part of any community-based planning and design project.   During this project, we will be engaging residents, business owners, and other key stakeholders.  Methods of engagement include an advisory committee, stakeholder sessions, pop ups, and more. 

The first Advisory Committee will meet November 17, 2025, at 1pm at the Recreation Center. 

Submit Your Feedback

We welcome your input and if we miss you at a public event, please send your comments to: Aimee Ingalls, Assistant City Administrator, at aingalls@palosheights.org or 708-480-3022