But officials are looking at a TIF district in the area from East State Street by the college all the way to Mulford and State Street.

The city is surveying which plots of land along that stretch could qualify. There are a number of businesses that have moved out of the area. And officials want to help Rockford College develop its vacant land.

The city can try to draw in new business by promising to pump money from property taxes to revamp old buildings and streets.

The general manager of Mailboxes and Parcel Depot says it's tougher to draw customers with two vacant spots in his strip mall.

"Empty space isn't good, you need more activity," says Jim Kitzmiller.

Jim says he's seen businesses nearby close and move elsewhere, such as Perryville Road.

"Some of these retailers are 30 years old. they want the newest locations," says Reid Montgomery of the city of Rockford.

Officials want to help Rockford College develop its vacant land. And help struggling strip malls.

"We have to keep rebuilding what we've already built," says Dan Conness, one of the city aldermen.