New East Peoria Downtown May Steer Business Away From Peoria Stores

PEORIA -- East Peoria's new downtown is bringing in some of the same popular retailers that are already in Peoria. Now some shoppers plan to spend their money on the east side of the river in Tazewell County.

Peoria County's Assistant Administrator Scott Sorrel said he doesn't see the potential loss in business as a negative impact.

He said Peoria County will make up those lost tax dollars elsewhere, and the city still has plenty of retail that will bring in people from across the state.

He said regardless of the location, bringing in new business is good for both sides of the river.

Sorrel said, "I think we see it as a rising tide lifts all boats. Costco, for example, they were going to put only one store in central Illinois and its much more beneficial that its in the Peoria region that not in the Peoria region. Yes, we would like to have seen it in Peoria and Peoria County but as long as it's in the Peoria metro area, it's good for everyone."

Sorrel said the new museum block is an important addition to Peoria. He said the attraction will bring thousands of visitors and further development.