Business & Tech

Funeral Home Continues Push for Commons Location

The Hickey Memorial Chapel is looking to relocate to a lot in the open space west of the Village Commons, but there have been ongoing delays because of issues with easements and other concerns.

As the village considers ways to develop the area to the west of the , local funeral home has faced ongoing delays in trying to become a part of this possible epicenter for community activity.

In March, owner Mike Hickey presented his plans to the Village Board, explaining that the funeral home needs more space than its current spot at 442 E. Route 30.

He still hopes to join the downtown atmosphere the village wants to create surrounding the Commons. But there have been numerous delays he's faced, including issues dealing with ComEd to get utility poles moved and working on how drainage would run off toward .

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"It's been a slow process, but I think it's a great location," Hickey said, noting the central location off Interstate 80 and the numerous food options nearby, such as and .

Read "" to hear what the Village Board's first impression was. 

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Besides logistical issues like drainage and easements, Hickey could face a bigger question: Does a funeral home fit into the vision of the Commons? That's a concern some readers and the Village Board expressed. Hickey clearly thinks so.

"Historically, a funeral home is part of the small town, downtown flavor," he said, mentioning area. "I think we would blend really well with the village. It's a vital part of any community."

Readers and board members were worried that traffic would be an issues, especially with funeral processions and times when there are community events on the Commons. Trustee Annette Bowden asked if there was a way for a direct route through that open space that would go to Nelson Road, but Hickey said there haven't been any new plans developed to do that.

The Village Board would still need to vote on these plans at a future meeting.


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