is now being reimagined for mixed-use projects that may include retail, housing, hotels, and a sports and entertainment complex. “This Sheridan Crossing site is positioned to utilize property which meets the space needs of modern developments, while also having the proximity to the traditional downtown,” Wegrzyn details. “We have an opportunity then to connect them through alternative transportation to create this vibrant hub of activity on the doorstep of Naval Station Great Lakes.” Preliminary concepts for the site have also envisioned a multi-purpose sports and entertainment complex capable of hosting a variety of events from professional soccer to regional youth tournaments and concerts. “High school championship games could be held there one weekend before getting transformed into a music venue the next,” conveys Wegrzyn. “Those cadets, when a weekend comes, they’re looking to do something fun. We think that this site could really fill that demand as a sports/ entertainment type of venue.Add in the hotels, retail, and restaurants and this site becomes a destination all its own.” The inclusion of a public art program is also under discussion, along with streetscaping elements like planter boxes, benches, and new light fixtures.“The city, throughout the years, has assembled a large number of parcels, both in this area and throughout other corridors in town, and we hope that this project is a linchpin to carry that momentum into smaller sites throughout the community,” Wegrzyn adds. Jackson emphasizes, “We’ve already got developers kicking the door. The proximity to Naval Station Great Lakes will be a boon for whatever business goes over there. So we’re very excited about that. Now is the time to invest in North Chicago.” INFRASTRUCTURE FOR GROWTH North Chicago is investing in infrastructure to support its residents into the future. Jackson recounts, “We’ve dedicated ourselves to reducing the number of lead service lines to the point where when we have a road project, we make sure we can replace them at the same time. We have an exceptional 98 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 10
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