Extensive Redevelopment Unanimously Approved By Downers Grove Council

DOWNERS GROVE, IL —Village commissioners unanimously voted in favor of designating the Meadowbrook Shopping Center as a TIF District and approving an extensive redevelopment helmed by Stellco Properties.

The decision comes with the aim of revitalizing the 189,000 square foot shopping plaza at 2133 63rd St., which has been in decline and disrepair in recent years.

Village documents have cited the shopping center's deteriorating buildings and parking lots, inadequate utilities and excessive vacancies. As of spring 2023, Meadowbrook Shopping Center had a 40 percent vacancy rate.

At the village council's April 8 meeting, Commissioner Chris Gilmartin thanked Stellco Properties for their "investment in our community."

He said, "We are working with you on this redevelopment agreement, putting our money where our mouth is. You are doing the same and we, as a village, really appreciate that."

Other village commissioners expressed agreement with Gilmartin's statement, with several commenting, "Ditto."

The total costs for the proposed TIF area are estimated at $9.5 million, per a presentaion from SB Friedman Developing Advisors.

Stellco Properties, which bought the site in 2022, plans to build a 15,000 square foot retail or grocery store, along with three new outlots of 8,400 square feet or more for additional retail tenants, per village documents.

Developers also plan to add a two drive-thru restaurants and a car wash.

"The Village of Downers Grove is very pleased to have a partner like Stellco Properties for the revitalization of the Meadowbrook Shopping Center," Downers Grove Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Bryan Gay told Patch. "The creation of the TIF district and the redevelopment plan has been two years in the making, and we are excited to see this project approved and moving forward."

He added, "We look forward to Meadowbrook becoming a destination with new restaurants and retail options for residents and visitors on 63rd Street."

According to Gay, Stellco Properties is collaborating with village staff to get the necessary permits to begin work on the development. It's anticipated the first phase of the redevelopment will begin in summer 2025.

As of spring 2025, there are 10 sites available for potential tenants at Meadowbrook Shopping Center, according to village documents from December 2024. These include the former sites of Cinema Treasures and Taste Indian Chinese Cuisine.