Gateway Update - April 10, 2008
The first phase of demolition at the Gateway Development site is nearly complete. The sanitary sewers have been installed and the water mains are being installed on the east half of the project. In addition, the contractor has started digging to make way for the first storm water detention box, which will be installed next week. Shortly, the contractor will complete a temporary drive off Cicero Avenue, close the 159th Street exit/entrance and reopen the Cicero exit/entrance. The general contractor plans to have the site ready for the CVS builder by May 1.
Gateway groundbreaking makes way for CVS, National City
On February 28, the chilly weather did not deter city leaders, community members, developers, and construction crews from "breaking ground" on the long-awaited Gateway Development at the northwest corner of Cicero Avenue and 159th Street. The mixed-use development will bring more than 50,000 square feet of new retail and restaurant space and 80 residential units to the city. (see site plan below).
Prior to the groundbreaking ceremony, the city announced that CVS, the nation's largest pharmacy chain, and National City, one of the nation's largest banking institutions, will open retail facilities as part of the Gateway Development.
"The services provided by CVS and National City will be of great value to our residents and commuters," said Community Development Director Adam Dotson. "Also, restaurant and other name brand retailers thrive on the consumer traffic generated by businesses like CVS and National City, creating a successful development."
With approximately 50 percent of the commercial square footage leased, HSA Commercial Real Estate has turned its focus on restaurants and niche retailers to fill the remaining space.
RSC & Associates, the master developer of the Gateway Development, has named Knightsbridge Design and Build, LLC as the general contractor. Construction is expected to be completed and the retailers open for business in mid August 2008.
Arbor Commuter Lot
In December, the former Arbor Park School site, along 159th Street near Oak Avenue, was transformed by the city into a safe, efficient and attractive commuter parking facility. The new lot accommodates Metra commuters from the previous permit lot. Ownership of the permit lot was transferred to RSC & Associates, the development firm in charge of the Gateway Development, so that construction could begin at the northwest corner of Cicero Avenue and 159th Street.
Veterans' Memorial
As part of the Gateway Development, the city plans to relocate and replace the War Memorial near the Metra train station. Now called a Veterans' Memorial, the new monument (see sketch below) will be located at City Hall near the gazebo. The city hopes to have the memorial completed in time for its annual Memorial Day service on Monday, May 26, 2008.
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