Several projects are currently underway here in the beautiful City of Zion that might be of interest to our readers.  The activity in the 3000 block of Sheridan Road has certainly kept our attention for the last several weeks with the remodeling activity for the new Hussey’s Grill and AutoZone relocation.

Both of these projects are updating this entire commercial section of our business corridor.  Hussey’s new outdoor patio and landscaping are eye-catching additions to this landmark location.  The interior has been completely redone to accommodate a more open floor plan, heavier traffic and hopefully a very long term operation.  The restaurant opened quickly to accommodate Nostalgia Days this last weekend, however look for the menu to expand along with events and promotions as they get into full swing.  The official Grand Opening is not planned until mid-July.

AutoZone is underway with the new store next door to Dryer’s Auto Service.  The move is being made to support the coming of Market Square in the 2700 block of Sheridan Road.  The new store is expected to be ready for occupancy at the end of August.  Once everything is relocated the existing building will be demolished, clearing the site to begin Phase One of the long anticipated project.  

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The first piece of the development will be a new Best Western Hotel and banquet facility.  In addition, the first structure will include several retail storefronts and the relocation of N & T’s Family Restaurant.  Discussions are underway with a 24-hour fitness facility and medical office as well.  With the transition of existing businesses within Shiloh Mall, that structure will be renovated to create a parking garage on the lower level and the back section of the main level.  The face of the building will be remodeled for new retail space and two levels of private condominiums will be added to the existing building.  When completed the building will bear little resemblance to what we have today. 

The anticipated opening for the new hotel is December of 2009.  Phase Two will begin at that time which includes more demolition of buildings along 27th Street, construction of additional residential condominiums, office and parking.  Phase Three, if warranted, will involve bridging over the existing alley to expand the hotel or residential, depending on demand.  The entire project is estimated at over $100 million dollars of private/public investment that is expected to generously impact our overall EAV, produce hotel, sales and real estate taxes  as well as new job opportunities.  In a perfect world, this project will inspire additional redevelopment of other sections in our downtown corridor.

At the north end, the new Yum! Brand project is underway in the 1900 block of Sheridan, next to the Pit Stop.  This development will be a new Taco Bell restaurant with potentially a co-brand of another Yum! Entity such as Long John Silver’s, A&W or Pizza Hut, but the determination of available lot size and access rests with the company and outside agencies, not the city.  The existing Taco Bell property is for sale, but will remain open until the new location is ready for occupancy, projected for late fall as we go to print.
Walmart is now open 24 hours and doing a brisk business.  Our studies indicate that just under half of the customers are WI residents and this is a welcome revenue source for our entire city.  Each new project will help offset the tax burden for our residents and the additional sales tax revenue will enable the city to continue to provide services tour community and yet allow for a lower tax rate as just happened in 2008. 

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There are several other projects in the pipeline, even at a time when retail and construction in general are stalling.  Zion is very fortunate that our momentum is steady and we anticipate being able to keep moving ahead.  For example, there are only six industrial spec buildings underway in the Chicagoland area this summer…and Trumpet Park can claim to be the first with its groundbreaking set for July. 

For further updates please continue to read the City Page or visit www.cityofzion.com   Beside our development projects, you’ll also discover local events to enjoy like the Farmer’s Market every Thursday from 2-7, Concerts in the Park, July 4th celebrations and the upcoming Jubilee Days festival.  All in all Zion is the place to ‘bee’ this summer!