SHIMER SQUARE
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  • Apartments
    • McKee Hall
    • Hostetter Hall
    • Dezendorf Hall
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    • Now Hiring!
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  • Progress Photos
  • Video Series
  • Resource Center

​51 Apartments:
Live in a Piece of History

APPLY NOW!

Applications Now Open! 

Yost Management Services is now accepting applications for Shimer Square's 51 studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. Units range in size from 462-1093 square feet and rents range from $430 to $948 per month. Preleasing means you can secure their apartment before construction is complete- and move in the moment Shimer Square receives its Occupancy Permit. All leasing-related communications will be handled exclusively by Yost Management by:
Phone:  (217) 345-2414 
Email: 
[email protected]
Website: https://www.yms-rentals.com/properties/shimer-square​
The goal is to have all units leased before construction completion, targeted October 2025 give or take, subject to change.
Apply Now!

Historic Transformation of McKee, Hostetter, and Dezendorf Halls into 51 Apartments

McKee Hall, Hostetter Hall, and Dezendorf Hall are being transformed into 51 brand-new, high-quality rental apartments. Choose from studio, one-, two-, or three-bedroom layouts, ranging from 462 to 1,093 square feet. This $23.4 million hard construction, mixed-income, live-work community offers affordable rents starting at just $430 and going up to $948 per month, offering options for people of all income levels. The thoughtfully designed studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments range from 462 to 1,093 square feet, blending the charm of history with the comfort of modern living.

The buildings will have brand-new elevators and meet local accessibility standards, including designated fully accessible and sensory units. Every unit is adaptable. Each apartment includes an in-unit washer and dryer, microwave, dishwasher, and Energy-Star ceiling fans. One pet is welcome with prior approval, applicable fees, and following the property management’s Pet Policy. Water and trash services are included. Fiber Internet is ready for your connection.
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McKee Hall
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Hostetter Hall
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Dezendorf Hall


Renderings of Units inside ​McKee & Hostetter Halls
Renderings of Units inside Dezendorf Hall
Renderings of ​Community Amenities

Highlights

​This information is intended to provide an overview and basic details about Shimer Square's apartments. Please note: All leasing inquiries, including waitlist status and availability, will be managed directly by the property management company. Announcement on when applications open to everyone outside the waitlist coming soon. 
​51 Apartments Total
  • ​Studio, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments
  • Units range in size from 462- 1,093 square feet​
  • Mixed-income, live-work housing development
Rent Range
  • Rent ranges from $430-$948/mo
Income:
  • All are welcome to apply
Apartment Features:
  • All questions will be addressed by the property management company
  • Designated fully-accessible and sensory units available
  • All units are adaptable
  • Appliances include microwave and dishwasher
  • In-unit washer & dryer
  • Energy-Star ceiling fans
  • Brand-new elevator in each building (Dezendorf, McKee, Hostetter)
  • One pet welcome with prior approval, applicable fees, and adherence to Pet Policy by property management company
  • Water and trash included
  • Fiber Internet ready- tenant responsibility
Community Amenities:
  • Community Room – A central gathering space for meetings, celebrations, and special events.
  • Activity Room – A dedicated space for recreational, social, and educational programs.
  • Library/Reading Area – A quiet spot for reading and studying.
  • Community Garden – Grow your own fruits and veggies. 
  • Bike Racks – Encouraging a connected, bike-friendly campus.
  • Picnic Tables & Grills – Perfect for outdoor dining, picnics, and barbecues.
  • Walking Paths – Improved paths connect residents across campus.
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"This project stands as a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and collaboration. These qualities are epitomized by our esteemed Board of Directors, whose steadfast support served as a cornerstone upon which the success of this endeavor was built," remarked Brian Hollenback, President/CEO of GROWTH. "We are proud to breathe new life into these historic buildings, preserving history and heritage while fostering progress. This milestone not only marks a significant achievement for GROWTH but also underscores the unwavering commitment made by many to preserve Shimer’s history while forging the campus ahead into a brighter future."

- Brian Hollenback, President/CEO for Economic Growth Corporation

“IHDA is proud to support this effort that will give a local landmark new life as quality, affordable rental housing for families and individuals in Carroll County. Shimer Square is one of the first new housing developments the county has seen in over two decades, and it is a testament to the work of the Mount Carroll City Council, the Economic Growth Corporation and others who have been working for years to bring new housing and opportunity to the community.”

- Kristin Faust, Executive Director for the Illinois Housing Development Authority

"As Mayor of Mount Carroll, I feel fortunate to have a committed developer like GROWTH by our side throughout this transformative endeavor. Their unwavering dedication to preserving our history while driving progress forward is truly commendable,” stated Mayor Carl R. Bates, City of Mount Carroll. “The closing of financing for the historic redevelopment of McKee Hall/Hostetter Hall and Dezendorf Hall at Shimer Square is a testament to their vision and perseverance. We are lucky to have GROWTH as a partner, ensuring that Shimer's legacy thrives alongside its promising future." 

- Carl R. Bates, Mayor for the City of Mount Carroll

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Equal Opportunity Provider. 
Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community-based development organization and the developer behind Shimer Square. At GROWTH, we are deeply committed to honoring the legacy of Shimer Square with the respect it deserves. This project represents years of dedicated planning, countless hours of work, and the passion of a mission-driven team determined to bring new life to this historic campus. ​This transformative development will:
  • Create and support 260 jobs
  • Deliver 51 new housing units, marking the first multifamily new construction in Carroll County in over two decades
  • Create new jobs
  • Expand access to vital childcare services
  • Introduce a new Resource Center
  • Every step pays tribute to the past while building a stronger, more vibrant future for Shimer Square

​Until further notice, the Shimer Square campus  at 203 Seminary Street, Mount Carroll, IL is closed to the general public due to active construction.
Fair Housing/ Equal Opportunity Statements:
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. Policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.


Declaraciones sobre Vivienda Justa/Oportunidad Igualitaria:
Estamos comprometidos con la letra y el espíritu de la política de EE. UU. para lograr la igualdad de oportunidades de vivienda en toda la nación. Fomentamos y apoyamos un programa de publicidad y marketing afirmativo en el que no haya barreras para obtener vivienda debido a raza, color, religión, sexo, discapacidad, estado familiar u origen nacional.
Information throughout this website is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. ​
  • HOME
    • About Shimer Square
    • Ribbon Cutting Celebration
    • About the Developer
    • Redevelopment Sites
    • Press Releases & Updates
    • Frances Shimer Arboretum
    • HISTORY
    • EVENTS
    • Campus Advocate Program
    • Community Resources >
      • City of Mount Carroll
      • Northwestern Illinois
      • West Carroll CUSD 314
    • Support
    • CONTACT
  • Apartments
    • McKee Hall
    • Hostetter Hall
    • Dezendorf Hall
  • Childcare Center
    • Now Hiring!
    • Enrollment Interest Form
  • Progress Photos
  • Video Series
  • Resource Center