‘Going to be crazy for this coffee’: 7 Brew continues resurgence of former mall area in St. Charles

With lines of customers frequently wrapping around their buildings, a proposed 7 Brew coffee and energy drink hotspot should continue the revitalization of the former mall property in St. Charles.

The city is likely to approve the fast-growing drive-through that is popular with teens and adults alike. It would fill out the western portion of the Prairie Centre, in the northeast corner of the Lincoln Highway (Route 38) and the Jewel entrance.

The city has sought to spur development and economic activity in the area since the demolition of the former St. Charles Mall in 2002. The Prairie Centre development began in 2018, including commercial, mixed-use and roughly 670 residential units on site.

Alderperson Steve Weber said he’s excited that development is increasing in the area, citing 7 Brew and the recently approved The Gardner School.

“We are starting to get all this (area) filled in, it’s going to be awesome, I love it,” Weber said during a recent March 16 Committee of the Whole meeting.

The 7 Brew still needs full city council approval.

If the new 7 Brew is approved, Alderperson Mark Foulkes said he knows it will be a hit with residents.

“On behalf of the teenage population that normally has to drive to Huntley (for 7 Brew), this is a wonderful addition,” Weber said. “It’s nice to see that side continued to be developed.”

7 Brew sells coffees, energy drinks, infused sparkling “Fizz” waters, teas, smoothies and other popular drinks. The chain became famous for its “7 Originals,” such as the Cinnamon Roll coffee and the German Chocolate coffee.

Since being infused with capital by investment company Blackstone Inc., the chain has continued to rapidly expand across the nation. The plan was proposed to St. Charles by Who Brew IL III, LLC.

St. Charles officials have tried to encourage builders to install sidewalks along Route 38 to complete another portion of the city’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan and Complete Streets Policy.

Alderperson Jayme Muenz stressed the importance of ensuring safe crossing areas between the parking area and 7 Brew’s walk-up lane, especially considering the two drive-through lanes will be full of customers. Muenz said safety is a priority because “they are going to be crazy for this coffee.”

The city recently approved The Gardner School in the Prairie Centre and compelled the developers to install sidewalks to improve pedestrian safety and walkability as connectivity expands westward in the city.

There currently aren’t any sidewalks along Route 38 on either side of Prairie Centre, from South Fourteenth Street to Randall Road. Sidewalks are also absent on the south side of Route 38, according to city documents.

City staff members have been working with the developer on the location of the site’s outlot sidewalks, according to city documents.