Rediscover Shimer Square.
In the center of the historic community of Mt. Carroll, IL sits a former college campus, with 14 rolling acres, historic trees, and 17 brick buildings ready for revitalization. Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation d/b/a Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) is working to breathe new life into this historic campus through its revitalization efforts that will result in new residents, new businesses, and enhanced quality of life. The campus has a rich history of academics. Times evolved and needs changed, but one remained constant- the community’s will to never give up on its beloved campus. In 2018, citizens joined together for the sake of their historic asset in search of a community-minded partner to preserve and revitalize its community anchor with shared vision to restore the campus’ natural beauty, capitalize on community pride, and bring the campus back to life. GROWTH took title to the property December 31, 2018 and has developed a comprehensive, multi-year development plan aimed at the preservation and revitalization of Shimer Square’s historic fabric while protecting its historic integrity.
As a minority-controlled, mission-driven organization, GROWTH identifies its redevelopment plan and works to raise capital behind the scenes until it is able to close and begin construction. In any given time, this takes an average of 3 years. In these unprecedented times post-COVID with rising construction costs, labor shortages, rising interest rates, GROWTH continues to persevere and is proud to present its updates on Shimer Square to the Mount Carroll City Council and community.
Construction on this historic campus began August 21st and will continue into the next three years. “This is truly a momentous milestone for Shimer Square ensuring its credible and sustainable future,” said Brian Hollenback. “In July, I let the community know work would start “30 and 3”, what can be seen today can be expected for the next three years.”
GROWTH has been successful in attracting resources amounting to $32,550,000 that will be deployed directly into the campus to create vital housing, business, and community amenities. This will create a new tax base to further increase the quality of life and community amenities that Mount Carroll proudly offers.
As a minority-controlled, mission-driven organization, GROWTH identifies its redevelopment plan and works to raise capital behind the scenes until it is able to close and begin construction. In any given time, this takes an average of 3 years. In these unprecedented times post-COVID with rising construction costs, labor shortages, rising interest rates, GROWTH continues to persevere and is proud to present its updates on Shimer Square to the Mount Carroll City Council and community.
Construction on this historic campus began August 21st and will continue into the next three years. “This is truly a momentous milestone for Shimer Square ensuring its credible and sustainable future,” said Brian Hollenback. “In July, I let the community know work would start “30 and 3”, what can be seen today can be expected for the next three years.”
GROWTH has been successful in attracting resources amounting to $32,550,000 that will be deployed directly into the campus to create vital housing, business, and community amenities. This will create a new tax base to further increase the quality of life and community amenities that Mount Carroll proudly offers.
Tree Trimming at Shimer Square
Tree trimming started taking place August 28 at Shimer Square. A total of 6 trees will be removed and 4 trees will be trimmed. The 6 trees removed were removed due to their close proximity to the buildings and the 4 trees trimmed were to eliminate squirrels and other animals coming into the properties and causing further damage.
GROWTH is sensitive to the amount, age, and species of trees that made up the Frances Shimer Arboretum and fully intends to keep as many of them as possible. A tree is taken down only if it poses imminent risk. It is also GROWTH’s intent to plant trees that were a part of the arboretum once construction is completed. More
GROWTH is sensitive to the amount, age, and species of trees that made up the Frances Shimer Arboretum and fully intends to keep as many of them as possible. A tree is taken down only if it poses imminent risk. It is also GROWTH’s intent to plant trees that were a part of the arboretum once construction is completed. More
Construction begins at Shimer Square
Renovation and construction officially began on August 21, 2023 at Shimer Square in Mount Carroll, IL. Work includes general renovations to the Sawyer House, parking lot and sidewalk replacements, masonry repairs to the main entrance gate, asbestos removal, and interior building demolition within Bennett and Hathaway Halls.
Work is made possible through the $1.5 million Rebuild Illinois grant, where GROWTH was one of 11 awardees in the state to be awarded funding through the competitive Regional Economic Development (RIRED) component of the grant. A public bidding process was published in May 2023 where potential bidders were invited to submit proposals. Bidders were required to meet certain requirements set forth by DCEO within Rebuild IL grant parameters to be considered. After receiving approval by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity in late July, GROWTH signed contracts with Galena Repair & Maintenance and IITI.
GROWTH reaching this milestone was no small feat. On the heels of Rebuild IL-related construction, GROWTH anticipates closing and starting construction on its $32 million redevelopment of McKee, Hostetter, and Dezendorf Halls. These historic buildings will be redeveloped into 51 units of workforce rental housing consisting of 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms ranging in size from 580 to 1,125 SF.
“This is truly a momentous milestone for Shimer Square ensuring its credible and sustainable future,” said Brian Hollenback. “In July, I let the community know work would start “30 and 3”, what can be seen today can be expected for the next three years.”
Work is made possible through the $1.5 million Rebuild Illinois grant, where GROWTH was one of 11 awardees in the state to be awarded funding through the competitive Regional Economic Development (RIRED) component of the grant. A public bidding process was published in May 2023 where potential bidders were invited to submit proposals. Bidders were required to meet certain requirements set forth by DCEO within Rebuild IL grant parameters to be considered. After receiving approval by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity in late July, GROWTH signed contracts with Galena Repair & Maintenance and IITI.
GROWTH reaching this milestone was no small feat. On the heels of Rebuild IL-related construction, GROWTH anticipates closing and starting construction on its $32 million redevelopment of McKee, Hostetter, and Dezendorf Halls. These historic buildings will be redeveloped into 51 units of workforce rental housing consisting of 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms ranging in size from 580 to 1,125 SF.
“This is truly a momentous milestone for Shimer Square ensuring its credible and sustainable future,” said Brian Hollenback. “In July, I let the community know work would start “30 and 3”, what can be seen today can be expected for the next three years.”
$32 million investment and 51 new apartments coming to Shimer Square
GROWTH is set to develop a high-quality housing option for working families in Mt. Carroll and surrounding communities thanks to the final financing commitment by the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) for its Shimer Square redevelopment. IHDA’s Board of Directors unanimously approved the multi-million dollar rehabilitation and redevelopment of the McKee/Hostetter and Dezendorf Halls within Shimer Square on Friday, July 21, 2023. This announcement represents 9 layers of complex financing making up more than $32 million that will be injected within Shimer Square, breathing new life into this vacant, historic campus that will result in an increase in population, jobs, and will create an entirely new tax base for the rural community of Mount Carroll, IL.
The development will feature 51 studio, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments ranging in size from 580 to 1,125 SF. Amenities will include a community room, game room, library area, walking path, community garden, bike racks, picnic tables, and outdoor grill area. The closing is anticipated in fall 2023, with construction expected to begin later in 2023 and will continue throughout 2024. Residents are anticipated to start moving in early 2025.
“This has been an extraordinary effort of many that has gotten us here today. I am thankful to have such strong support from our Board of Directors, the IHDA Board, IHDA staff, elected officials, and staff that worked diligently towards our efforts at Shimer Square,” said Brian Hollenback, President/CEO. “After a course of many years of hard work behind the scenes, rising above all hurdles, we are proud to announce this tremendous opportunity to develop quality, workforce housing that within Shimer Square.”
“The redevelopment of Shimer Square checks all the boxes in terms of community and economic development,” remarked Representative Tony McCombie, House Minority Leader. “I was invited by GROWTH to tour the campus in 2019 and have kept up on GROWTH’s efforts since that time. This announcement is a key driver to help address unmet housing needs while creating opportunities for business development and community services. I will continue supporting GROWTH through its Shimer Square redevelopment efforts.”
“This announcement gives a tremendous boost to Mount Carroll’s economy,” says Mayor Carl Bates. “I want to thank the team at GROWTH and the Illinois Housing Development Authority for their confidence in our community. I have seen first-hand how strong GROWTH’s reputation is as a community-based developer and I am excited to see the vision come to life at Shimer Square.”
“I am proud to have witnessed IHDA’s announcement that sets the course for Shimer Square’s redevelopment effort. Seeing GROWTH’s keen ability to restore so many historic aspects of these buildings will be an exciting thing to witness and be a part of,” states Nancy Bandemer, Alderwoman for the City of Mount Carroll.
The development will feature 51 studio, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments ranging in size from 580 to 1,125 SF. Amenities will include a community room, game room, library area, walking path, community garden, bike racks, picnic tables, and outdoor grill area. The closing is anticipated in fall 2023, with construction expected to begin later in 2023 and will continue throughout 2024. Residents are anticipated to start moving in early 2025.
“This has been an extraordinary effort of many that has gotten us here today. I am thankful to have such strong support from our Board of Directors, the IHDA Board, IHDA staff, elected officials, and staff that worked diligently towards our efforts at Shimer Square,” said Brian Hollenback, President/CEO. “After a course of many years of hard work behind the scenes, rising above all hurdles, we are proud to announce this tremendous opportunity to develop quality, workforce housing that within Shimer Square.”
“The redevelopment of Shimer Square checks all the boxes in terms of community and economic development,” remarked Representative Tony McCombie, House Minority Leader. “I was invited by GROWTH to tour the campus in 2019 and have kept up on GROWTH’s efforts since that time. This announcement is a key driver to help address unmet housing needs while creating opportunities for business development and community services. I will continue supporting GROWTH through its Shimer Square redevelopment efforts.”
“This announcement gives a tremendous boost to Mount Carroll’s economy,” says Mayor Carl Bates. “I want to thank the team at GROWTH and the Illinois Housing Development Authority for their confidence in our community. I have seen first-hand how strong GROWTH’s reputation is as a community-based developer and I am excited to see the vision come to life at Shimer Square.”
“I am proud to have witnessed IHDA’s announcement that sets the course for Shimer Square’s redevelopment effort. Seeing GROWTH’s keen ability to restore so many historic aspects of these buildings will be an exciting thing to witness and be a part of,” states Nancy Bandemer, Alderwoman for the City of Mount Carroll.
"In 30 and 3"
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What does that mean? Construction contracts are being written, and subject to Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity signoff, construction is anticipated to begin in 30 days. This will officially kick off revitalization efforts at Shimer Square that will continue over the next three years.
On Friday, June 23rd, Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) hosted staff and a board member from the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA), and together with Mount Carroll residents, officials, and business community leaders, toured the campus, sharing phase-by-phase plans for the comprehensive redevelopment plan that will result in new residents, new business, and new community services opening within Shimer Square. IHDA staff enjoyed their visit. At the tour’s conclusion, the group went on to support local businesses by having lunch at the Copper Cow and enjoyed shopping in downtown Mount Carroll. GROWTH appreciates the local support evidenced at the site visit, with Alderwoman Nancy Bandemer, Alderman Paul Kaczmarski, and Alderman Mike Risko representing the City of Mount Carroll; Board Chair Pam Sorg representing the Mount Carroll Chamber of Commerce; and Sam Pidde present representing the Carroll County Mirror Democrat. David Schmit, Regional Director of NW Illinois Economic Development and Kristina Tranel from neighboring Jo Daviess County represented Shimer Square’s strong regional support. |
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Now Seeking Campus Advocate Program
We understand the actions made by a select few has impacted an entire community. Economic Growth Corporation is seeking a Campus Advocate that will bring citizen volunteers into partnership with Economic Growth Corporation to pick up trash and keep Shimer Square’s campus clean. Campus Advocates will be able to use the campus for its intended use and enjoyment from sunrise to sunset. Just about anyone can be a campus advocate. Those interested may call (309) 794-6711 and ask for Andrew Fisher.
· We are looking for one local person that would like to be lead the program which would entail:
· Share and manage a sign up sheet for those that would like to use the campus
· Those that wish to sign up agree to help remove litter and any fallen debris obstructing the sidewalks (such as small branches/twigs)
· Share the sign up sheet with Economic Growth Corporation and access to the campus will be granted
· Campus Advocate will be self-managed and report any updates / changes to Economic Growth Corporation
· We are looking for one local person that would like to be lead the program which would entail:
· Share and manage a sign up sheet for those that would like to use the campus
· Those that wish to sign up agree to help remove litter and any fallen debris obstructing the sidewalks (such as small branches/twigs)
· Share the sign up sheet with Economic Growth Corporation and access to the campus will be granted
· Campus Advocate will be self-managed and report any updates / changes to Economic Growth Corporation
Market study strongly supports development of daycare center at Shimer Square
After reviewing its redevelopment plan, GROWTH pivoted and is now redeveloping Metcalf Hall's ground floor into a childcare development center.
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Posted 5/4/2023
“The investment made by the City of Mount Carroll in funding the market study is an investment in the future of our community and our families that call it home. The market study provides the hard evidence that was already evident. I am proud of the strong statistics the market study presents that will allow even more families, especially those with young children, the opportunity to access high-quality care options that meet their needs,” remarked Carl Bates, Mayor for Mount Carroll. “This effort is a true demonstration of many members of our region coming together that paved the way for such a successful market study. The amount of time each participant spent during the interview process was impressive and allowed us to access that much more information needed to move the daycare process forward. Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible,” said Alderwoman Nancy Bandemer. |
$1.5 Million Rebuild Illinois contract awarded, pending IL DCEO approval
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GROWTH has awarded bids for the its Rebuild Illinois grant and the construction will begin after receiving approval by the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (IL DCEO)
Click here to view Bid Opportunity. |
Commencement Celebration held on May 28, 2022 where Mayor Carl Bates introduced Brian Hollenback, President/CEO for GROWTH who took the time to update the community on development updates, that construction soon begin.
“Our first commitment was to bring Mayfest back to the Shimer Square campus. It only makes sense that three years later, after one intervening pandemic, we come back to Mayfest to update the community on our good news, and to assure the same community that GROWTH is working hard behind the scenes to advance the shared plans that are starting to be realized for this historic campus.”
~ Brian Hollenback, President/CEO. Photo courtesy of the Carroll County Mirror-Democrat.
Contact Us
GROWTH is a 501(c)3 non-profit community-based development organization with a national footprint. GROWTH's home office is located at 100 19th Street, Suite 109, Rock Island, IL 61201.
Equal Opportunity Provider.
Phone: (309) 794-6711
Email: info@growthcorp.org
Equal Opportunity Provider.
Phone: (309) 794-6711
Email: info@growthcorp.org
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NOTICE: Effective Sunday, August 21, 2022 and again on May 17, 2023: Until further notice, Economic Growth Corporation will prohibit public access to the 14-acre Shimer Square campus at 203 Seminary Street. Violators will be asked to leave the campus and if they choose not to will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Anyone with information related to the vandalism that has unfortunately occurred on the campus is asked to contact the Mt. Carroll Police Department at (815) 244-5313.
