THE ISSUE
Many downtown business districts are finding it difficult staying afloat amid intense big-box competition in the stagnant economy.

OUR VIEW
Individuals who support local merchants help to continually revitalize our communities and make them even better places to live.

SPEAK UP
Would something like the 3/50 Project be beneficial to your downtown business district? Tell us what you think of this by leaving a comment below. You can also e-mail your comment here. Or leave a voice message at (630) 368-8882.

The thought of turning around the fortunes of a struggling commercial district can be daunting.

First, there is the study to be conducted to gauge what kind of businesses people want to see in their downtown. Then, there is the recruitment of merchants and the matching of businesses with available properties. Marketing also is a vital part of this process.

Economic development can take years. If it succeeds, the struggling commercial district can become a thriving center for commerce.

But if it fails, a lot of time and money will have been spent with little gain to show for it.
Many business districts are having a difficult time attracting customers — even those with traditionally strong downtowns.

The uncertainty of the free market has made people reluctant to spend the kind of money needed to jump-start a local economy. So, it would be easy for people to become discouraged that revitalizing their downtown may be a Herculean task.

Unless, of course, there were a more practical way of ensuring their town’s commercial base remained on a solid financial footing.

A campaign called the 3/50 Project provides a way for residents to make a difference in the life of their downtown commercial districts. It’s based on the premise that if everyone does a little bit, much will be accomplished.

Here’s the plan: Residents select three businesses they would miss if these shops went under. Then, the residents commit to spending $50 across these three businesses per month.

Participants in this program include businesses in Bartlett, Berwyn, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Geneva, Glen Ellyn, Hinsdale, Huntley, Lombard, Naperville, Roselle, St. Charles, Streamwood, Western Springs, Wheaton and Winfield.

Find out if your town is participating. If it is, jump in and commit to supporting your three favorite businesses.

If you haven’t heard of this program, check out the information online (www.the350project.net) and help to spread the word.