| 2008 Completed Projects |
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Century Station A major cornerstone for the revitalization of the Depot district was constructed in 2008 when the Century Station mixed-use project was completed. The development features 52 condominimum units and 15,000 square feet of commercial space, including a Harris Bank branch. TIF assistance was used for the project, including a substantial land write-down. Century Station is a prime example of transit-oriented development that provides quality architecture and aestetics of which Berwyn residents can be proud.
DiBrizzi Commercial Space This commercial space went vacant in 2008. The owners used TIF funds to return the space to a warm shell. The build-out helped the owners attract a high-quality tenant, create jobs, and improve the aesthetic value of the corridor. The TIF scope of work included demolition, electrical, carpentry, plumbing, tile and HVAC installation, painting, and flooring.
The building owner was approved for TIF funding for interior construction build-out and façade work in 2007, converting this long vacant space into a new restaurant. The scope of work included carpentry, ceiling rehabilitation, drywall installation, flooring, electrical, plumbing, signage, and interior finishes. The end product is Berwyn’s first Thai restaurant.
This new business utilized TIF funding to completely replace the façade of an old financial services building. The scope of work included removal of the existing façade and replacement with a new frame that supports a “fire house door” capable of opening during favorable weather. The new establishment is a casual sports bar that features chicken wings in specialty sauces.
This grocery store received TIF assistance for signage and awning installation. The owner worked closely with Berwyn Main Street and the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency to create a high-quality project, which included pin-mounted LED-lit lettering and open-ended awnings. The end result is a project that can be used as an example for higher-quality signage and awning projects in the future.
In 2008, the former manager of local favorite D’Andrea Italian Market was approved for TIF assistance to build-out a Depot District space for a new Italian specialty food store and delicatessen. The project scope of work included demolition, electrical, carpentry, ceramic tiling, plumbing, painting, heating, and awning installation. TIF assistance enabled the relocation and retention of a valued member of the community.
Tiger O’stylies utilized TIF assistance for interior improvements, which included demolition, installation of new interior decorative brick, the construction of a new bar near the kitchen area to accommodate additional restaurant space, drywall, painting, carpeting, and tile installation. The increased seating capacity and upgraded facilities helped the business accommodate more customers, which in turn produced additional sales tax revenue for Berwyn.
The proprietor of the grocery store used the TIF program to install new awnings on the building’s storefront. These new awnings have improved the façade’s appearance and function as signage for the business.
Berwyn’s Toys & Trains updated its sign using TIF assistance. The new signage provided for a vintage, high-quality neon sign along Berwyn’s Historic Route 66 roadway.
The median project included the removal of existing raised medians on Cermak Road and replacement with landscaped and paved medians. The design compliments previous streetscape improvements and maintains a pedestrian scale along Cermak Road. With an original project budget of $1.4 million, project bids came in under budget at $1.25 million after moving through a competitive bid process. Cermak Road now offers greater aesthetic value, additional greenery, and better access to recreation, shopping, and dining for motorists and pedestrians alike. The streetscape project is another component in the City’s may efforts to enhance Berwyn’s quality of life.
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