ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Several developments proposed in Rockford were discussed at Monday night's Planning and Development Commission meeting. One is located at the corner of West State and North Main.
The project is being led by Rockford-based Urban Equity Properties.
“We're excited to create a building that's a little bit different than the typical brick exterior project. This has a deco look, a Miami Beach kind of look. This is very appealing to us. This is an exciting project,” said Justin Fearn, founding member of Urban Equity Properties.
The current building has remained vacant for decades. This three-story building of his is located on the corner of one of the busiest intersections in the city.
“The entire city of State and Maine is zero-grid, with great theaters, entertainment, bars, restaurants, courthouses and other vibrant downtown locations all within walking distance,” Fern said.
This building will undergo a complete interior and exterior renovation. Exterior work has already begun.
“It's a job creator,” Fern said. “It's a permanent job creator. It's a construction job creator. At the same time, we're clearing out buildings that have been vacant for decades.”
The first floor will have two retail spaces. Loft office space will be located on the second and third floors.
“We have one larger retail space that is already leased to a national tenant,” Fern said. “And we also have a second retail space that we plan to sell soon.”
The unique Art Deco design contributes to the color and vibrancy of downtown Rockford. Developers hope the color, lighting and murals on the building will contribute to the growth of the Main Street District.
Two other developments discussed at Monday's meeting would revive an old watch factory on South Madison Street and another building on North Main. Both projects are from Oliver Emerson Development.
