What This Document Is
This is a course syllabus and studio outline for UPP 535: Revitalizing Urban Business Districts, a special topics course in Economic Development offered at the University of Illinois at Chicago. It details a practical, project-based learning experience focused on applying economic development principles to a real-world challenge – the revitalization of a specific urban business district. The course centers around a partnership with the Village of Richton Park, Illinois, providing students with direct engagement in a municipal retail revitalization project.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is invaluable for graduate students in urban planning and related fields interested in the practical application of economic development strategies. It’s particularly useful for those seeking to understand the complexities of retail revitalization, business recruitment, and place marketing. Professionals already working in economic development roles may also find it beneficial as a reference for course structure and potential project approaches. Reviewing this outline will help you determine if the course aligns with your academic or professional goals before committing to access the full materials.
Topics Covered
* The role of economic development agencies in retail revitalization
* Assessing the economic, physical, and social factors impacting commercial districts
* Business recruitment and retention strategies
* Place marketing and branding for commercial areas
* Commercial real estate assessment and analysis
* Market analysis techniques for identifying business opportunities
* Organizational capacity building for economic development offices
* The application of planning tools and resources for local business development
What This Document Provides
* A detailed course description and learning objectives
* A breakdown of student assessment components and their weighting (assignments, participation)
* A semester-long overview outlining key topics and associated activities
* Information on required course materials and access to online resources
* Contact information for the instructor and relevant Village of Richton Park personnel
* A schedule of topics and assignments, providing a roadmap for the course’s progression.
