Walmart on Randall really a go this time
With the new year comes a new promise that the Walmart along Randall Road in Elgin still is a go.
Yes, I know you've heard that promise many times in years past. The talk of the new Walmart at the intersection of Randall and Bowes roads goes all the way back to 2006.
Many times since then, there has been talk that the project was never going to happen.
But officials say this year it really is going to happen.
Elgin should see work begin in 2010 on the new store, and there will be a Sam's Club to go with it, Elgin Senior Planner Sarosh Saher said.
The company presented new plans for the Walmart to the city council in late December, showing they plan to go ahead with the project.
However, Saher said, the council wants a few improvements to the plan first before the company can proceed.
The council wants to move the Sam's Club a little further north. They also are asking the company to make a "greener" parking lot, with permeable pavement, Saher said. Finally, they've asked for a smaller sign for the businesses to help meet the concerns of nearby residents.
Once Walmart has tweaked the plan, they will present the changes again to the city and things should move forward with final approval.
When that will happen, they are unsure, Saher said. "That is up to Walmart," he said.
However, there was talk that it would happen soon - sometime before spring.
The next step after that approval would be for Walmart to bid out the project.
Their new time frame calls for them breaking ground in about six months.
Whatever the time frame, Saher said, the project is still happening.
"That is definite," Saher said. "They have shown us a very firm commitment."
When the project is complete, you will see the Sam's Club close to Bowes Road, with the Walmart a little to the south.
Along with the two superstores, there will be seven outlots.
Saher said those are expected to be filled with stores, restaurants and a gas station.
Snow fun: It might be hard to imagine, but there is more fun to be had in this cold weather.
Geneva Commons will be hosting its Snow Sculpting Exhibition again this year.
From Wednesday to Saturday, Jan. 20 to 23, sculptors will make amazing creations of the snow right along Randall Road in Geneva Commons, in the parking lot near Dick's Sporting Goods.
Yes, it's true - beauty will come from that cold stuff that is making our backs ache as we continue to shovel it from our driveways and sidewalks.
The creations are amazing, with champion sculptors creating the snowy visions.
Facebook friends: If you're really into shopping, you may want to add a new friend to your Facebook friends list.
Algonquin Commons along Randall Road has its own page on Facebook and is inviting you to follow it online. Mall management promises that followers will get notices of events, sales and promotions.
To follow the mall, go tofacebook.com/AlgonquinCommons.
• Amy Williams' column covers the news of business along the Randall Road corridor from Batavia to Crystal Lake. Contact her at randallbiz@comcast.net or (847) 894-5036.