Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is the functional integration of land use and transit through the creation of compact, walkable, mixed-use communities within walking distance of transit stops or stations. TODs are characterized by their efficient, safe, and multimodal designs, allowing for convenient travel on foot, by bicycle, via transit, or by car. Effective TODs bring people, jobs, and services together in one unified ecosystem.

The Village Center Plan focuses on the use of TOD to:

• Account for changing economic and market conditions
• Address lifestyle and housing choices
• Create a dynamic Village Center with direct access to multiple modes of transportation

• 2010: Hanover Park adopted a Comprehensive Plan identifying the "Village Center-TOD" area as a well-planned, transit-oriented, mixed-use, compact development area.
• 2012: In partnership with the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), the Village completed and adopted the Hanover Park Village Center Transit-Oriented Development Plan. 
• 2017: The TOD plan was updated following input from various stakeholders including business and property owners, transit agencies, developers, and residents.
• 2018: The Village implemented A Vision for the Village Center, based on recommendations from earlier plans. Efforts included acquisition of key parcels, burial of overhead utilities, and the design of streetscape improvements to catalyze development and attract private investment. The Village Center TIF District was also amended to include the south commuter lots for redevelopment and extended by 12 years.
• 2018 & 2019: The Village held a series of community meetings to gather input on streetscape design concepts. The Village held a meeting on May 17, 2018 to provide business and property owners an opportunity to share feedback, which informed further design development. On February 7, 2019, stakeholders were invited to review concepts for public parks and gathering spaces, proposed sidewalk improvements, landscaping, outdoor seating, special paving, lighting, and other enhanced pedestrian amenities.
• 2020: Streetscape improvements were constructed in phases, beginning with the burial of overhead utility wires.    
• 2021: A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on June 23, 2021, celebrating the completion of our newly designed civic space for community gatherings. Our 2021 Tree lighting event was held here for the first time.
• February 2022: Following Development Commission feedback, a draft zoning document was prepared. Property and business owners were invited to an Open House on February 17, 2022 to provide feedback and ask questions.
• June 2022: The Development Commission held a Public Hearing on June 9, 2022 to receive public input and finalize its review of the proposed Village Center Zoning Code.
• August 2022: The Village Board approved the Development Commission’s recommendation, adopting a Zoning Code text amendment, followed by a corresponding map amendment, to implement Village Center regulations.