Lemont Town Building

The Village of Lemont is at the beginning of a transformation - one that will recreate the town's center into a destination filled with unique shopping, vibrant entertainment and gathering places, green spaces, loft living and a true neighborhood feel.

Marquette Companies, working closely with village leaders, recently broke ground on the $250 million project to redevelop and reinvent Lemont's Downtown District. This project will give residents and visitors alike the best of both city and suburb, transforming Lemont into an urban-like oasis in the sea of Chicago communities.

The Vision of Lemont

Imagine waking up with the sun pouring in your loft windows and walking down to the street below for a newspaper, cup of coffee and pastry. Or, picture yourself meeting friends to do some local boutique shopping before strolling to a nice dinner around the corner.

With Lemont's new village center, these experiences will not only be possible, but also available without the hassles of city living. Marquette Companies and the Village of Lemont have carefully worked on redevelopment plans for two years, ensuring Lemont residents and surrounding communities have access to ample but discreet parking, convenient roads, pedestrian-only walkways and easy train commuting. Work on the village's infrastructure - including new roads, sewer systems and electrical utilities - has already begun.

The Plan: Lemont's Three Downtown Districts

The Master Plan for downtown Lemont combines the unique benefits and personality of three distinct districts:

1. The Historic District
2. Fry's Landing (Canal Walk) District
3. The Transit District

The Historic District

Lemont's Historic District capitalizes on and preserves the village's unique historic structures and character - rich in stone, antique brick and "Lemont Yellow" limestone, cut from local quarries. Quaint, pedestrian-friendly walkways will connect buildings dating back to the early 1800s with new retail, office and residential space. These new buildings will be created in Lemont's distinct architectural style and character, combining cutting-edge facilities with the historical look and feel of the town. No structure higher than 3 stories will be built in this district.

The shops located in the Historic District will/do offer a host of unique goods and services, as well as places to eat, drink and socialize. This neighborhood gathering place is designed for local residents and visitors to connect with one another, browse and enjoy life - without traveling to outside communities. The Historic District will be transformed into a complete, "walkable community" where most of your retail and entertainment needs can be met without transportation.

Fry's Landing (Canal Walk) District & The Front Street Lofts

This section of Lemont is designated as General Fry's Landing. Named to commemorate the first boat that traveled on the I&M Canal when it opened in 1848. The cornerstone of the vibrant Fry's Landing District will be the opening of The Front Street Lofts, offering 82 loft-style condos with unique shops and small service businesses on street level. Providing urban-like dwellings abundant in space, light and upscale amenities, the one- and two-story lofts will be available in studio, one, two or three bedroom units, with prices ranging between $180,000 and $500,000. The $30 million loft project is part of the first phase of the master redevelopment plan, projected for completion by Fall 2007.

Lemont thrived in the 1800s as a growing city that played a key role in the construction of the Illinois & Michigan (I&M) Canal, which shipped goods between Chicago and the Mississippi River. Although its use for commerce has ended, the canal - which runs through the village - continues to be rich in beauty and potential recreation for Lemont. Today the City of Lemont owns and preserves a 5 mile section of this historic canal.

To capitalize on this resource, the redevelopment plan includes the creation of Canal Walk Park - a main recreational destination located along the canal itself. Pedestrian walkways, landscaping, bicycle paths and green space will provide a place for children to play and people to relax. Potential plans also call for a cultural center, independent movie theatre, boutique hotel and tourist attraction, such as a floating replica of an 1800's era barge serving as a museum or restaurant, located in this recreation-centered district. Businesses lining the street across from the linear park will also provide pedestrians a place to stop and enjoy a sandwich or ice cream cone, sit outside, relax and take in the view.

The Transit District

Located less than 30 miles southwest of Chicago, Lemont is perfectly situated for either suburban or city employment. In fact, Lemont's new transit system already offers easy commuting to downtown Chicago. However, as part of the redevelopment plan, this train depot and surrounding area will be connected to all areas of Lemont's new downtown by pedestrian-friendly walkways and landscaping. In addition, ample parking will be constructed, offering flexibility and ease of use to this valuable Metra train stop.

Transformation in Motion

To complete the village's total transformation, Marquette Companies and Lemont leaders predict a ten to fifteen year development process. However, changes are happening now - changing the face of Lemont and the lives of its residents. With the first phase of the project estimated for completion by next fall, Lemont's transformation is well on its way.