Partner Organizations

The Champaign Downtown Association could not exist if not for the generous support of our partner organizations.  Their continued commitment to Downtown has been unmatched through their programming of special events and board support.  The CDA Thanks these partners and looks forward to continuing our strong relationship.

City of Champaign

The City of Champaign is committed to bringing renewed strength to the City Center.  They recognize that downtown represents the heart and soul of the community and therefore should be preserved and renewed.  Their commitment has come in the form of millions of dollars in public works projects (streetscape, lighting, green space, and the brand new 600 space parking facility).  They have also used Tax Increment Financing funds to sponsor the Redevelopment Incentive Program.  This program, created in 1994, has played a major role in preserving and renovating the exiting building stock of Downtown.  This program has granted over 3 million dollars leveraging over 24million dollars over that 14 year period.  The City also sponsors three street festivals a year and the Downtown Festival of the Arts in conjunction with the Champaign Park District.

Champaign Park District

The Champaign Park District has been a key partner of the CDA’s for over 15 years.  Their downtown programming currently includes the Taste of Champaign-Urbana, Streetfest, Downtown Festival of the Arts, and Parade of Lights.  Together these events draw thousands of community members and out of town visitors to Downtown Champaign each year.  They also serve as caretaker of downtown’s most prized landmark, the Virginia Theatre.  This historic movie palace has stood since 1921 and still welcomes live concerts, theater, and movies throughout the entire year.  Finally the Champaign Park District has kept downtown beautiful by protecting and maintaining historic West Side Park and leading the Downtown Flower Island program in partnership with the City of Champaign.

40 North/88 West – Champaign County Arts, Culture, and Entertainment Council

40 north is the central point for expanding cultural art opportunities throughout Champaign County.  Their committment to Downtown includes sponsorship of the Boneyard Arts Festival, Annual ACE Awards and many more.  Their committment downtown and the arts has helped transform Downtown into the cultural center it is today.