Title
Holiday Décor - Phase II - Lagrange Road and Civic Corridors
History
In 2016, the Village purchased and installed new holiday décor, as part of a phase I project. New holiday décor had not been purchased for well over 20 years. This initial phase included new street pole décor that incorporated the Village’s new brand and new large scale ornaments at Village Hall, Crescent Park and Centennial Park. Plans for additional holiday décor (Phase II) were put on hold until the LaGrange Road reconstruction project was completed. With the completion of the road project this year, Phase II of the holiday décor project can now be finalized. Manufacturer orders need to be placed now to allow enough lead time for installation/placement in November, prior to the holiday shopping season. The proposed décor and cut sheets are included as an exhibit for review.
The Village collects a significant amount of sales tax during the holiday season. As the Village Board is aware, the retail industry is rapidly changing. On-line purchases continue to threaten brick and mortar retail. While Orland Park is the regional shopping destination, the Village cannot be complacent in the marketplace. The shopping experience and “sense of place” is more important than ever before.
Across the nation, retail shopping habits are being closely watched and researched. Studies have documented that millennials desire to spend money on experiences that enhance their lives. One study shows that 61% of millennials ages 21-24 would rather have dinner at a new restaurant than buy a new pair of shoes. This is not just for this generation only; consumers across all generations prefer experiences that make you happier and are as valuable as buying things. This is called the “experiential and destination retailing.”
The implementation of the Holiday décor project was in direct response to this changing retail environment. The Village is committed to assisting our brick and mortar businesses. The holiday décor project is intended to draw visitors to Orland Park, who will come to see the lighted displays and spend money in Orland Park. The proposed Phase II will install tree lighting and custom pole décor throughout the entire LaGrange Road Corridor, starting at downtown and proceeding to 167th Street. While the Village also desired to install larger lighted displays along LaGrange road, IDOT denied the Village’s request. As a result of this denial, a few additional larger display items will be also purchased, for the Village Hall/Civic Corridor and Downtown areas. Last year, these two areas were highly visited by both residents and visitors, with very positive feedback.
Financial Impact
The total cost of Phase II is $420,181.76. This includes $355,181.76 for the décor and lights and $65,000 for the labor for the tree wrapping. The installation of the new pole décor will be completed by Public Works Department and the installation of the larger lighted displays will be completed by the Parks Department.
Funds are available in the Economic Development Fund for this item. This is the same fund that was used for the Phase I project in 2016.
On June 19, 2017, this item was reviewed by the Development Services Planning and Engineering Committee, recommended for approval and referred to the Village Board of Trustees for consideration.
Recommended Action/Motion
I move to approve a contract with Artistic Holiday Designs in the amount of $355,181.76 and with Holiday Creations, Inc. in the amount of $65,000 for labor and installation, as outlined above;
And
Approve the Phase II holiday program, in the total amount of $420,181.76.