City of St. Charles seeks developers for final buildings of First Street redevelopment project

The City of St. Charles is seeking developers to complete the remaining three buildings in the First Street Redevelopment Project.

The buildings offer an exciting opportunity to complete a vibrant, mixed-use environment along the south First Street corridor in the heart of downtown St. Charles.

There are three remaining buildings in the project - 6, 7B and 8 - located south and west of the corner of First and Illinois streets. Construction of these buildings is anticipated to begin in 2019 and will finish out the project.

The remaining three buildings are envisioned as mixed use with ground floor commercial. Potential upper level uses could include office and/or residential space.

The city is seeking creative proposals that will provide a balance of uses among these buildings.

First Street is a multiphase project that began in 2007. The first two phases of the project are complete. Phase III, which includes construction along the riverfront between Main and Illinois streets, currently is underway.

The first three buildings of this phase are in various stages of completion and are mostly occupied.

"The First Street project has seen increased momentum in recent years, as the vision set forth comes to fruition," said Rita Tungare, community and economic development director. "The live-work-play concept, in a vibrant pedestrian environment, continues to be in demand in the Fox Valley and the Chicago region. St. Charles' strong local economy, high quality of life and business-friendly policies continue to draw interest."

St. Charles Mayor Raymond P. Rogina welcomes the energy the First Street Development has fostered.

"Downtown St. Charles has become an increasingly desirable neighborhood for residents." said Mayor Rogina. "There are services like the Blue Goose Market and a plethora of restaurants and cafes right at your doorstep. Community activities in the First Street Plaza are a big draw, and the planned bi-level riverwalk and a second plaza will add to that. New residents will bring even more activity to the downtown area and enhance the business environment."

A request for proposals has been posted to the city of St. Charles website, at www.stcharlesil.gov/projects/First-Street-RFP. Inquiries can be directed to Rita Tungare, director of community and economic development, at (630) 377-4443 or rtungare@stcharlesil.gov.

Proposals will be accepted through Friday, July 13.