Bo Jackson among investors in new bank in Burr Ridge

Bo Jackson, who gained fame as a two-sport professional athlete, is among a group of investors who plan to establish a new bank in suburban Burr Ridge.

Burr Ridge Bank & Trust, on Dec. 31, applied to state banking regulators for a permit to organize. The bank will be headed by Roy Thygesen, a former executive of Canadian-owned Harris Bank.

Jackson, who played outfield for the Chicago White Sox and was a running back for the Oakland Raiders before a hip injury ended his career, will serve as a director of the bank.

Jackson and 19 other investors have invested $11 million in equal amounts to organize the bank. The bank will attempt to raise another $7 million to $11 million by selling stock to the local community.

"Burr Ridge has got branches of other banks, but it doesn't have its own community bank," Thygesen said. "It's going to be very local; decision-makers are the board and me."

Thygesen said the bank is expected to open in the fall.

Jackson was unavailable for comment, according to a spokeswoman. But investors say Jackson's involvement reflects an increased interest in business since Jackson retired in 1995.

"He's interested in becoming more involved in the business community in and around Chicago," Thygesen said.

Jackson is part owner and CEO of the Bo Jackson Elite Sports Complex, which is to open this year in Lockport.