Concept considered for commercial district

Elginites anticipating new commercial options with the city’s growth have a development on the horizon to look forward towards.

City Manager Thomas Mattis reviewed the Rhode Tract Commercial Center concept plan for council members during the April 2 meeting. The 60-acre retail development has already purchased land that fronts U.S. Highway 290, neighboring the Ascension Seton Health Center.

“It’s probably the number one thing I hear from folks; when are we going to get restaurants, more stores, when are we going to get these kind of amenities? So, we’re excited about this project,” Mattis said.

Mattis described the complex as a “hotel site,” with big box opportunities for larger commercial brands and pad sites for restaurants and stores along the highway. No details about specific commercial brands were suggested.

The plot resides inside city limits and clarifying details for a planned district development agreement are being finalized, to most likely be formally approved during the next council meeting, according to the city manager.

“We actually think this will be just the start of other commercial development like this we’ll see in the future. This is all good, it’s responsive to what people want,” added Mattis. “They’re excited about coming to Elgin, we’re excited about having them here.”