Crestwood officials recently received aldermanic approval to proceed with “Discover Crestwood,” a revitalization program for the city’s business community.

The program, modeled after an idea presented by Ward 1 Alderman Darryl Wallach, is designed to “send a message to area shoppers that most of their shopping needs can be met in the city of Crestwood and demonstrate to businesses that the city of Crestwood cares about their business and is making an effort to help them in these tough economic times,” according to a recent administration memo.

Business owners have the opportunity to participate in “Discover Crestwood” in two ways. They can sign up, at no charge, to be included in an alphabetical list of Crestwood businesses on the city’s Web site and/or choose a discount to offer participating patrons.

Under the second option, patrons would obtain a “savings pass,” available through the city’s Web site and bimonthly newsletters, and present it at participating businesses to receive the discounts.

Businesses would pay nothing out-of-pocket to Crestwood for participation in the discount option; their only expense would be the amount of the discount.

Owners would demonstrate their businesses’ participation by placing a “Discover Crestwood” decal in their front window or near their cash register. They can renew or discontinue their discounts on an annual basis.

Besides newsletter and Web site promotion, Crestwood officials hope to utilize such online social media as Facebook and Twitter to get the word out on “Discover Crestwood.”