Together we plan. Together we grow.
Peoria County 200+ is a process to create a comprehensive plan for the future of our community. This plan will define a vision for Peoria County for the next decade or more and will set the direction for the County’s development, investment, and change.
Peoria County sits at the center of a diverse region along the Illinois River, home to more than 180,000 residents and a mix of farmland, industry, and urban centers. For generations, the region has been a center for agriculture and manufacturing and has benefited from the many amenities of the City of Peoria. More recently, the community has advanced in sectors healthcare, education, green energy, and more, creating new opportunities and new questions about what comes next.
The community-diven planning process is focused on both preserving and enhancing what makes the County special and making Peoria County even better for future generations.
Everyone who cares about the future of Peoria County is invited to participate. It is time to turn our ideas into action. Join us today!
What is a Comprehensive Plan?
A comprehensive plan is a long-term guide that expresses the values and aspirations of a community. It is the broadest public policy document a community can create for future physical development considering the input of residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. The plan is a tool to prepare for change and acts as a guidebook for decision-makers. Although not a legally binding document, it can serve as a foundation for budgeting decisions, zoning ordinances, land development regulations, sustainable practices, and more.
Why does Peoria County need a new Comprehensive Plan?
Since adoption of the 2009 plan, the community has experienced a decline in population while also demonstrating true resolve and resilience since emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic. Now is the time for a fresh start, which can begin with the creation of a new forward-thinking comprehensive plan. The plan can become a catalyst to create positive momentum within this diverse region.
The Process
The plan update is a significant undertaking that is anticipated to last approximately 14-16 months. It is expected to be completed in early 2026.
Who’s who?
Planning Commission
Process leadership
The Commission is a diverse group of community members that will meet regularly throughout the process, provide guidance on the process and substance of the Plan, serve as community liaisons, and potentially act as stewards of the completed Plan.
Stakeholders
Targeted input
Various stakeholder groups will be convened to inform specific aspects of the plan. These groups may include business leaders, advocacy organizations, neighborhood associations, real estate professionals and developers, education professionals, students, and young professionals, among others.
Public
Input and feedback
Widespread public involvement is vital to the success of Peoria County 200+. In-person workshops, online tools, and other targeted engagement opportunities will offer more ways for community members to give input throughout the process.
Tri-County Regional Planning Commission and Peoria County Staff
Coordination
Tri-County Regional Planning Commission and Peoria County staff will support and help to coordinate the work of all other groups with local knowledge and expertise.
Elected Officials
Monitor
Elected officials will monitor the Peoria County 200+ process and the resulting community vision, recognizing that success should be independent of the county’s elected leadership.
Consultants
Process leadership, expertise
The consultant team will facilitate the process, lead the technical analysis, and prepare the draft and final plan document. The team will draw heavily from local knowledge and input collected and its national experience and expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Comprehensive Land Use Plan?
A Comprehensive Land Use Plan is a long-term guide that expresses the values and aspirations of a community. It is the broadest public policy document a community can create for its future physical development, considering the input of citizens, businesses, and other stakeholders. It outlines a future vision for the County, sets goals for areas like land use, housing, and infrastructure, and lists actions to achieve those goals. The plan is a tool to prepare for change and acts as a guidebook for decision-makers. The plan is not a legally binding document, but it can serve as a foundation for land development regulations, zoning ordinances, budgeting decisions, and more.
Why does Peoria County need a new Comprehensive Land Use Plan?
Peoria County is situated in a region marked by both rich history and evolving opportunity. Since the adoption of its last Comprehensive Land Use Plan in 2009, the County has experienced significant shifts in demographics, economic conditions, infrastructure needs, and environmental priorities. These changes underscore the need for a new plan that reflects current realities while guiding future change. A new Comprehensive Land Use Plan will serve as a framework to support desired change, enhance quality of life, and ensure responsible stewardship of land and resources.
Will the community be able to participate?
Yes! This is an open and inclusive process. There will be two periods of public engagement held during the planning process, which will include multiple in-person and online engagement opportunities. The first round of public engagement will take place in Fall 2025.
Do I need to be an expert to contribute ideas?
You are an expert if you live or work in Peoria County. Who knows the community better than someone who lives or works here? Anyone who cares about the future of the County is encouraged to participate and contribute their ideas and insight.
How long will the process take?
The plan is anticipated to be completed in Fall 2026.
How will the County use the Comprehensive Land Use Plan?
The County will use the Comprehensive Land Use Plan as a roadmap for growth, development, and conservation. It sets the long-term vision for the County and guides decisions on zoning, infrastructure, and public investment. County staff and officials will use it to evaluate development proposals, coordinate with neighboring municipalities, and ensure policies reflect community priorities. While not regulatory itself, the plan provides the legal and strategic foundation for zoning changes and resource allocation.
What topics does a Comprehensive Land Use Plan Cover?
The Comprehensive Land Use Plan will cover a wide range of topics including, but not limited to:
- Future Character and Land Use
- Economic Development
- Public Health and Equity
- Housing
- Infrastructure
- Transportation
- Natural Resources and Resiliency