The project, estimated to cost $12 million to $15 million, leaves room for more retail development of what is considered a blighted site. Among the potential uses are a grocery store, bank and restaurant in in-line space. Another 180,000 sf of retail space could be added in later phases, according to a proposal endorsed Thursday by the plan commission. Property records show Menard paid nearly $5.3 million for the site last September.
"Our community has been struggling with unemployment and disinvestments for many years," says 37th Ward Ald. Emma M. Mitts. "This is the first new Menard's store in the city, rather than the suburbs, in 10 years."
Team Menard Inc. is asking for no financial assistance from the city, says Tim Gloor of the department of planning and development. However, the developer is paying for a new traffic signal on North Avenue as well as improvements to the heavily traveled street. Also, Menard's is covering at least half of its store with a professionally designed "green roof."
"Menard's is helping turn this blighted site around," says Mitts, adding the store is expected to bring more than 150 full- and part-time jobs paying good wages with benefits. The city council is expected to approve a zoning change from manufacturing use to a business planned development.
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