The Polish Highlanders Alliance of North America’s local chapter is considering relocating from the Southwest Side to the southwest suburbs. Orland Park officials are eager to seize the opportunity for a new cultural center in the village.
Community Engagement
Mayor Jim Dodge hosted representatives from the organization, along with around 200 residents, at the Signature Barn Banquet Hall on May 29. The purpose was to discuss potential development northwest of the Interstate 80 and La Grange Road area. “I’d love to see that development in Orland,” Dodge expressed. “Anything that attracts a lot of people to Orland Park is good for our commercial base, and it benefits the community.”
Seek New Location
Krzysztof Zoltek, the organization’s secretary general, stated that the Alliance is in discussions to purchase a vacant parcel owned by St. Xavier University near this corridor. The current cultural center at 4808 S Archer Ave. in Chicago, built through community efforts, no longer aligns with the needs of the shifting Polish American population. “If we could move it to the suburbs where our community thrives now, we’d love to, but that’s not possible,” Zoltek explained.
Challenges in Finding a Site
Zoltek mentioned their extensive search for a location capable of hosting a banquet hall for 1,000 people and outdoor activities. The desired I-80/La Grange Road parcel is priced at $3 million, with an additional $15 million required for construction. Although the cost exceeds expectations, the organization values its collaboration with the village following the engaging May 29 event. “The offers have come in, but more importantly, Mayor Dodge has provided us with an opportunity to connect with the community,” Zoltek noted. The interaction fosters dialogue and exploration of mutual interests.
Support from Local Government
Dodge, familiar with the vibrant culture of the Polish American community from his upbringing near the Archer Avenue location, understands the cost concerns but remains committed to assisting in the approval process if they proceed. “For any ethnic group that cherishes its heritage while being American, these initiatives matter,” Dodge remarked. “They preserve language, music, art, and culture, which are crucial for a community’s identity.”