Village Working to Develop Downtown Area

Many residents and village officials share a similar vision to bring something to New Lenox that's been severely lacking: a true downtown area.

The economic downturn has slowed the progress of realizing that vision, but the village is currently working with property owners about options to start preparing the land west of the to get it ready for development.

Mayor Tim Baldermann wouldn't share many details because the village is considering numerous options with property owners. He said any expenses incurred by the village would be minimal and likely include preparing the land for development and finding a private developer to work with the village closely on the vision for a downtown area.

"This is something that’s very important for the community, and I’m excited to get things moving there," Baldermann said. "The Commons is good, and it would be ideal to continue what we’re doing there."

The village began to develop the Commons area about a decade ago, constructing the , as well as the new and the park that includes the performing arts pavilion.

But as the economy took a downturn, development stalled on the 30 acres to the west of the Commons. Finally, after sitting empty for years, some good news came in April when an empty mixed-use , the Joliet-based nonprofit group that offers programs for people with developmental disabilities or behavioral needs.

Still, the rest of the land is a field of crops. The village wants to start moving on this property so it has a say when it comes time to bring in new business. The village's master plan for this area includes restaurants, small shops and possibly a residential component.

"We have a general idea of what we want to see there," Baldermann said. "But you only get one bite at the apple, and we want a say in what that is."

There aren't too many more details available regarding New Lenox's plans in working with the property owners, but the mayor said the village is weighing its options.