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Time Capsule Placed for Future Generations
Posted: 8/28/2025
Our team Brian Hollenback, President/CEO, Carey Jorgensen, Director of Property Management, Andrew Fisher, Construction Director, Cindy Berg, CFO, and Beth Payne, Senior VP, joined Mayor Carl R. Bates for a photo as we prepared a time capsule to be placed inside McKee Hall at Shimer Square Apartments- a gift for future generations to discover. The capsule begins with these words: "𝖳𝗈 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖿𝗎𝗍𝗎𝗋𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝗌𝗂𝖽𝖾𝗇𝗍𝗌, 𝖼𝗈𝗆𝗆𝗎𝗇𝗂𝗍𝗒 𝗆𝖾𝗆𝖻𝖾𝗋𝗌, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗌𝗍𝖾𝗐𝖺𝗋𝖽𝗌 𝗈𝖿 𝖲𝗁𝗂𝗆𝖾𝗋 𝖲𝗊𝗎𝖺𝗋𝖾: 𝖨𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗆𝗈𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍, 𝖠𝗎𝗀𝗎𝗌𝗍 2025, 𝗐𝖾 𝖿𝗂𝗇𝖽 𝗈𝗎𝗋𝗌𝖾𝗅𝗏𝖾𝗌 𝗂𝗇 𝖺 𝗋𝖾𝗆𝖺𝗋𝗄𝖺𝖻𝗅𝖾 𝗉𝗁𝖺𝗌𝖾 𝗈𝖿 𝗋𝖾𝗇𝖾𝗐𝖺𝗅. 𝖶𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗐𝖺𝗌 𝗈𝗇𝖼𝖾 𝖺 𝗊𝗎𝗂𝖾𝗍, 𝗏𝖺𝖼𝖺𝗇𝗍 𝖼𝖺𝗆𝗉𝗎𝗌 𝗂𝗌 𝖼𝗈𝗆𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝖺𝗅𝗂𝗏𝖾 𝗈𝗇𝖼𝖾 𝖺𝗀𝖺𝗂𝗇... 𝖠𝗌 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝗈𝗉𝖾𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗍𝗂𝗆𝖾 𝖼𝖺𝗉𝗌𝗎𝗅𝖾, 𝗉𝖾𝗋𝗁𝖺𝗉𝗌 𝗒𝖾𝖺𝗋𝗌 𝗈𝗋 𝖽𝖾𝖼𝖺𝖽𝖾𝗌 𝖿𝗋𝗈𝗆 𝗇𝗈𝗐, 𝗐𝖾 𝗁𝗈𝗉𝖾 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝗐𝖺𝗅𝗄 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗌𝖾 𝗀𝗋𝗈𝗎𝗇𝖽𝗌 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗌𝖺𝗆𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗋𝖾𝗇𝖼𝖾 𝗐𝖾 𝖿𝖾𝗅𝗍 𝗐𝗁𝗂𝗅𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝖻𝗎𝗂𝗅𝖽𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗆. 𝖬𝖺𝗒 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝖼𝖺𝗋𝗋𝗒 𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗐𝖺𝗋𝖽 𝗂𝗍𝗌 𝗅𝖾𝗀𝖺𝖼𝗒. 𝖠𝗇𝖽 𝗆𝖺𝗒 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝖺𝗅𝗐𝖺𝗒𝗌 𝖿𝖾𝖾𝗅 𝖺 𝗌𝖾𝗇𝗌𝖾 𝗈𝖿 𝗉𝗋𝗂𝖽𝖾 𝗂𝗇 𝖻𝖾𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗉𝖺𝗋𝗍 𝗈𝖿 𝗌𝗈𝗆𝖾𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗆𝖾𝖺𝗇𝗂𝗇𝗀𝖿𝗎𝗅. 𝖠𝗌 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌, 𝗄𝗇𝗈𝗐 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝖲𝗁𝗂𝗆𝖾𝗋 𝖲𝗊𝗎𝖺𝗋𝖾 𝗌𝗍𝖺𝗇𝖽𝗌 𝖺𝗌 𝖺 𝗌𝗒𝗆𝖻𝗈𝗅 𝗈𝖿 𝗐𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗂𝗌 𝗉𝗈𝗌𝗌𝗂𝖻𝗅𝖾 𝗐𝗁𝖾𝗇 𝗉𝖾𝗈𝗉𝗅𝖾 𝖼𝗈𝗆𝖾 𝗍𝗈𝗀𝖾𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗏𝗂𝗌𝗂𝗈𝗇, 𝗉𝖾𝗋𝗌𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗋𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾, 𝗁𝗂𝗌𝗍𝗈𝗋𝗂𝖼 𝗉𝗋𝖾𝗌𝖾𝗋𝗏𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗄𝖾𝖾𝗉𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗌𝗈𝗆𝖾𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗒 𝗆𝖾𝖺𝗇𝗂𝗇𝗀𝖿𝗎𝗅 𝖺𝗅𝗂𝗏𝖾. 𝖳𝗁𝖾 𝗐𝗈𝗋𝗄 𝗂𝗌 𝗉𝖺𝗋𝗍 𝗈𝖿 𝗌𝗈𝗆𝖾𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗅𝖺𝗋𝗀𝖾𝗋, 𝗍𝗈𝗀𝖾𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗆𝖺𝗇𝗒 𝗉𝖺𝗋𝗍𝗇𝖾𝗋𝗌, 𝖺𝗅𝗂𝗀𝗇𝖾𝖽 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗋𝖾𝗀𝗂𝗈𝗇𝖺𝗅 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗌𝗍𝖺𝗍𝖾 𝖾𝖿𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗍𝗌 𝗍𝗈 𝖾𝗑𝗉𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗌𝗂𝗇𝗀, 𝗌𝗎𝗉𝗉𝗈𝗋𝗍 𝖿𝖺𝗆𝗂𝗅𝗂𝖾𝗌, 𝗌𝗍𝗋𝖾𝗇𝗀𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗐𝗈𝗋𝗄𝖿𝗈𝗋𝖼𝖾, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖻𝗎𝗂𝗅𝖽 𝖾𝗇𝖽𝗎𝗋𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗉𝗋𝗈𝗌𝗉𝖾𝗋𝗂𝗍𝗒 𝗂𝗇 𝖬𝗈𝗎𝗇𝗍 𝖢𝖺𝗋𝗋𝗈𝗅𝗅 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖻𝖾𝗒𝗈𝗇𝖽. 𝖳𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝖽𝗈𝖼𝗎𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍 𝗋𝖾𝖿𝗅𝖾𝖼𝗍𝗌 𝗐𝗁𝖾𝗋𝖾 𝗐𝖾 𝗌𝗍𝗈𝗈𝖽 𝗂𝗇 2025."
Our team Brian Hollenback, President/CEO, Carey Jorgensen, Director of Property Management, Andrew Fisher, Construction Director, Cindy Berg, CFO, and Beth Payne, Senior VP, joined Mayor Carl R. Bates for a photo as we prepared a time capsule to be placed inside McKee Hall at Shimer Square Apartments- a gift for future generations to discover. The capsule begins with these words: "𝖳𝗈 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖿𝗎𝗍𝗎𝗋𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝗌𝗂𝖽𝖾𝗇𝗍𝗌, 𝖼𝗈𝗆𝗆𝗎𝗇𝗂𝗍𝗒 𝗆𝖾𝗆𝖻𝖾𝗋𝗌, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗌𝗍𝖾𝗐𝖺𝗋𝖽𝗌 𝗈𝖿 𝖲𝗁𝗂𝗆𝖾𝗋 𝖲𝗊𝗎𝖺𝗋𝖾: 𝖨𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗆𝗈𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍, 𝖠𝗎𝗀𝗎𝗌𝗍 2025, 𝗐𝖾 𝖿𝗂𝗇𝖽 𝗈𝗎𝗋𝗌𝖾𝗅𝗏𝖾𝗌 𝗂𝗇 𝖺 𝗋𝖾𝗆𝖺𝗋𝗄𝖺𝖻𝗅𝖾 𝗉𝗁𝖺𝗌𝖾 𝗈𝖿 𝗋𝖾𝗇𝖾𝗐𝖺𝗅. 𝖶𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗐𝖺𝗌 𝗈𝗇𝖼𝖾 𝖺 𝗊𝗎𝗂𝖾𝗍, 𝗏𝖺𝖼𝖺𝗇𝗍 𝖼𝖺𝗆𝗉𝗎𝗌 𝗂𝗌 𝖼𝗈𝗆𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝖺𝗅𝗂𝗏𝖾 𝗈𝗇𝖼𝖾 𝖺𝗀𝖺𝗂𝗇... 𝖠𝗌 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝗈𝗉𝖾𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗍𝗂𝗆𝖾 𝖼𝖺𝗉𝗌𝗎𝗅𝖾, 𝗉𝖾𝗋𝗁𝖺𝗉𝗌 𝗒𝖾𝖺𝗋𝗌 𝗈𝗋 𝖽𝖾𝖼𝖺𝖽𝖾𝗌 𝖿𝗋𝗈𝗆 𝗇𝗈𝗐, 𝗐𝖾 𝗁𝗈𝗉𝖾 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝗐𝖺𝗅𝗄 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗌𝖾 𝗀𝗋𝗈𝗎𝗇𝖽𝗌 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗌𝖺𝗆𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗋𝖾𝗇𝖼𝖾 𝗐𝖾 𝖿𝖾𝗅𝗍 𝗐𝗁𝗂𝗅𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝖻𝗎𝗂𝗅𝖽𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗆. 𝖬𝖺𝗒 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝖼𝖺𝗋𝗋𝗒 𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗐𝖺𝗋𝖽 𝗂𝗍𝗌 𝗅𝖾𝗀𝖺𝖼𝗒. 𝖠𝗇𝖽 𝗆𝖺𝗒 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝖺𝗅𝗐𝖺𝗒𝗌 𝖿𝖾𝖾𝗅 𝖺 𝗌𝖾𝗇𝗌𝖾 𝗈𝖿 𝗉𝗋𝗂𝖽𝖾 𝗂𝗇 𝖻𝖾𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗉𝖺𝗋𝗍 𝗈𝖿 𝗌𝗈𝗆𝖾𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗆𝖾𝖺𝗇𝗂𝗇𝗀𝖿𝗎𝗅. 𝖠𝗌 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌, 𝗄𝗇𝗈𝗐 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝖲𝗁𝗂𝗆𝖾𝗋 𝖲𝗊𝗎𝖺𝗋𝖾 𝗌𝗍𝖺𝗇𝖽𝗌 𝖺𝗌 𝖺 𝗌𝗒𝗆𝖻𝗈𝗅 𝗈𝖿 𝗐𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗂𝗌 𝗉𝗈𝗌𝗌𝗂𝖻𝗅𝖾 𝗐𝗁𝖾𝗇 𝗉𝖾𝗈𝗉𝗅𝖾 𝖼𝗈𝗆𝖾 𝗍𝗈𝗀𝖾𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗏𝗂𝗌𝗂𝗈𝗇, 𝗉𝖾𝗋𝗌𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗋𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾, 𝗁𝗂𝗌𝗍𝗈𝗋𝗂𝖼 𝗉𝗋𝖾𝗌𝖾𝗋𝗏𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗄𝖾𝖾𝗉𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗌𝗈𝗆𝖾𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗒 𝗆𝖾𝖺𝗇𝗂𝗇𝗀𝖿𝗎𝗅 𝖺𝗅𝗂𝗏𝖾. 𝖳𝗁𝖾 𝗐𝗈𝗋𝗄 𝗂𝗌 𝗉𝖺𝗋𝗍 𝗈𝖿 𝗌𝗈𝗆𝖾𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗅𝖺𝗋𝗀𝖾𝗋, 𝗍𝗈𝗀𝖾𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗆𝖺𝗇𝗒 𝗉𝖺𝗋𝗍𝗇𝖾𝗋𝗌, 𝖺𝗅𝗂𝗀𝗇𝖾𝖽 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗋𝖾𝗀𝗂𝗈𝗇𝖺𝗅 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗌𝗍𝖺𝗍𝖾 𝖾𝖿𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗍𝗌 𝗍𝗈 𝖾𝗑𝗉𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗌𝗂𝗇𝗀, 𝗌𝗎𝗉𝗉𝗈𝗋𝗍 𝖿𝖺𝗆𝗂𝗅𝗂𝖾𝗌, 𝗌𝗍𝗋𝖾𝗇𝗀𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗐𝗈𝗋𝗄𝖿𝗈𝗋𝖼𝖾, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖻𝗎𝗂𝗅𝖽 𝖾𝗇𝖽𝗎𝗋𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗉𝗋𝗈𝗌𝗉𝖾𝗋𝗂𝗍𝗒 𝗂𝗇 𝖬𝗈𝗎𝗇𝗍 𝖢𝖺𝗋𝗋𝗈𝗅𝗅 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖻𝖾𝗒𝗈𝗇𝖽. 𝖳𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝖽𝗈𝖼𝗎𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍 𝗋𝖾𝖿𝗅𝖾𝖼𝗍𝗌 𝗐𝗁𝖾𝗋𝖾 𝗐𝖾 𝗌𝗍𝗈𝗈𝖽 𝗂𝗇 2025."
Applications Now Open- Prelease Your Apartment at Shimer Square
Posted: 8/18/2025
Yost Management, property manager, is now accepting applications for Shimer Square Apartments, a historic redevelopment in Mt. Carroll, Illinois. Shimer Square offers 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 that applicants 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 calling (217) 345-2414 or visiting their website below. Click here to view full news release.
Yost Management, property manager, is now accepting applications for Shimer Square Apartments, a historic redevelopment in Mt. Carroll, Illinois. Shimer Square offers 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 that applicants 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 calling (217) 345-2414 or visiting their website below. Click here to view full news release.
4-C Named Operator of New “Honey Bee Child Development Center at Shimer Square”
Posted: 8/15/2025
4-C Community Coordinated Child Care (4-C) proudly announce that 4-C will operate newly named “Honey Bee Child Development Center at Shimer Square” in Mt. Carroll, IL. This transformative partnership- GROWTH as developer and 4-C as operator- will expand access to high-quality childcare and support working families within a 30-minute radius of the Shimer Square campus. 4-C has signed a long-term lease with GROWTH to operate the center. Click here to view full news release.
4-C Community Coordinated Child Care (4-C) proudly announce that 4-C will operate newly named “Honey Bee Child Development Center at Shimer Square” in Mt. Carroll, IL. This transformative partnership- GROWTH as developer and 4-C as operator- will expand access to high-quality childcare and support working families within a 30-minute radius of the Shimer Square campus. 4-C has signed a long-term lease with GROWTH to operate the center. Click here to view full news release.
Construction progresses at Early Childhood Development Center
Posted: 10/28/2024
Last week, site work, grading, and foundation walls were completed at the Early Childcare Development Center. This week, the underground electrical and plumbing installations will wrap up, and the building pad is set to be poured starting Friday. In the coming weeks, walls will go up, and trusses will be installed. We've been fortunate with favorable weather and hope it continues to keep construction moving forward before winter sets in. Completion is anticipated for fall 2025, weather permitting and/or unforeseen circumstances. Click here to view full news release.
Last week, site work, grading, and foundation walls were completed at the Early Childcare Development Center. This week, the underground electrical and plumbing installations will wrap up, and the building pad is set to be poured starting Friday. In the coming weeks, walls will go up, and trusses will be installed. We've been fortunate with favorable weather and hope it continues to keep construction moving forward before winter sets in. Completion is anticipated for fall 2025, weather permitting and/or unforeseen circumstances. Click here to view full news release.
Work begins on Early Childhood Development Center
Posted: 10/18/2024
GROWTH and Growth General Contracting, LLC signed contracts for work to begin at the Early Childhood Development Center on October 14, 2024. Visible work started on October 18, 2024 starting with excavation for the foundation, with pouring concrete following the week after. Timeline to completion aligns around the completion of the McKee/Hostetter and Dezendorf Halls redevelopment into 51 apartments in or around summer 2025. GROWTH continues to work with its Operator with an announcement coming in the future.
GROWTH and Growth General Contracting, LLC signed contracts for work to begin at the Early Childhood Development Center on October 14, 2024. Visible work started on October 18, 2024 starting with excavation for the foundation, with pouring concrete following the week after. Timeline to completion aligns around the completion of the McKee/Hostetter and Dezendorf Halls redevelopment into 51 apartments in or around summer 2025. GROWTH continues to work with its Operator with an announcement coming in the future.
Bids for Early Childhood Development Center
Posted: 9/16/2024
GROWTH and Growth General Contracting, LLC closed the bid opportunities for the Early Childhood Development Center on 9/13/2024. The bid was published on 8/14/2024. A bidders meeting was held on 8/28/2024. Last day for questions was 9/6/2024. Notifications will be provided by the new extended date of 9/30/2024.
GROWTH and Growth General Contracting, LLC closed the bid opportunities for the Early Childhood Development Center on 9/13/2024. The bid was published on 8/14/2024. A bidders meeting was held on 8/28/2024. Last day for questions was 9/6/2024. Notifications will be provided by the new extended date of 9/30/2024.
Illinois State Historic Preservation Office Site Visit
Posted: 8/29/2024
Jim Baranski and Beth Baranski of Baranski Hammer Moretta & Sheehy Architects & Planners, the architects behind Shimer Square's adaptive reuse design, Beth Payne from Economic Growth Corporation, and Clint Hoeger and Sam Pilcher from Estes Construction hosted Darius Bryjka from the Illinois State Historic Preservation Office. This in-depth visit focused on the careful preservation of the site's historically significant elements, a vital aspect of adaptive reuse and historic redevelopment effort.
Jim Baranski and Beth Baranski of Baranski Hammer Moretta & Sheehy Architects & Planners, the architects behind Shimer Square's adaptive reuse design, Beth Payne from Economic Growth Corporation, and Clint Hoeger and Sam Pilcher from Estes Construction hosted Darius Bryjka from the Illinois State Historic Preservation Office. This in-depth visit focused on the careful preservation of the site's historically significant elements, a vital aspect of adaptive reuse and historic redevelopment effort.
Construction update- 51 Apartments
Posted: 7/12/2024
We are happy to share with our progress report on Shimer Square in partnership with Estes Construction. Click here for a progress report or see highlights below:
We are happy to share with our progress report on Shimer Square in partnership with Estes Construction. Click here for a progress report or see highlights below:
- 18 weeks of active construction
- 19,900 hours of work completed
- 27 workers on average per week
- No safety issues or incidents
- Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing rough in's complete at Dezendorf Hall. Interior demolition nearing completion and framing beginning at McKee/Hostetter Halls.
Rebuild Illinois Summary
Posted: 6/30/2024
As one of 11 Rebuild Illinois-Regional Economic Development grant awardees from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Economic Growth Corporation is proud to showcase a video recapping its Rebuild Illinois grant efforts within its Shimer Square redevelopment in Mount Carroll, IL. GROWTH’s award supports Governor Pritzker’s 5-year plan to strengthen economies and develop regional industries. Watch the 3-minute video! Click here to view the summary document.
As one of 11 Rebuild Illinois-Regional Economic Development grant awardees from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Economic Growth Corporation is proud to showcase a video recapping its Rebuild Illinois grant efforts within its Shimer Square redevelopment in Mount Carroll, IL. GROWTH’s award supports Governor Pritzker’s 5-year plan to strengthen economies and develop regional industries. Watch the 3-minute video! Click here to view the summary document.
Groundbreaking Ceremony Held for Early Childhood Development Center at Shimer Square
Posted: 6/4/2024
In a strategic move to further job creation and community development, GROWTH, at the request of the City of Mount Carroll, has embarked on the development of a high-quality Early Childhood Development Center adjacent to new housing units currently under construction within the Shimer Square campus in Mt. Carroll, IL. This initiative aims to provide childcare and workforce solutions by creating 27 jobs. Click here for the full news release.
In a strategic move to further job creation and community development, GROWTH, at the request of the City of Mount Carroll, has embarked on the development of a high-quality Early Childhood Development Center adjacent to new housing units currently under construction within the Shimer Square campus in Mt. Carroll, IL. This initiative aims to provide childcare and workforce solutions by creating 27 jobs. Click here for the full news release.
Call for Operators: State-Licensed Childcare Providers Invited to Lease and Operate Early Childhood Development Center at Shimer Square
Posted: 5/3/2024
GROWTH invites state-licensed childcare operators to submit proposals for leasing and operating an early childhood development center within its Shimer Square campus. As part of GROWTH's ongoing revitalization efforts at Shimer Square, the early childhood development center aims to create jobs and meet the increasing demand for quality childcare services for families residing within a 30-minute radius of Mount Carroll. Spanning approximately 5,000 square feet, the facility will include classrooms with optimal staff-to-child ratios, a kitchen area, bathrooms, office space, and an outdoor play area. Proposals must be submitted electronically to Beth Payne, Senior Vice President, at [email protected], no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 24, 2024. Late submissions will not be accepted. Click here for the full news release.
GROWTH invites state-licensed childcare operators to submit proposals for leasing and operating an early childhood development center within its Shimer Square campus. As part of GROWTH's ongoing revitalization efforts at Shimer Square, the early childhood development center aims to create jobs and meet the increasing demand for quality childcare services for families residing within a 30-minute radius of Mount Carroll. Spanning approximately 5,000 square feet, the facility will include classrooms with optimal staff-to-child ratios, a kitchen area, bathrooms, office space, and an outdoor play area. Proposals must be submitted electronically to Beth Payne, Senior Vice President, at [email protected], no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 24, 2024. Late submissions will not be accepted. Click here for the full news release.
GROWTH closes on historic, adaptive reuse redevelopment of McKee Hall/Hostetter and Dezendorf Halls
Posted: 2/28/2024
GROWTH reached reached a monumental milestone by successfully closing on the complex financing needed to signal commencement of construction for the historic, adaptive-reuse redevelopment of McKee Hall/Hostetter Hall and Dezendorf Hall within Shimer Square. This achievement marks the official start in transforming McKee Hall/Hostetter Hall and Dezendorf Hall into 51 units of quality, affordable rental apartments, catering to various living preferences and lifestyles. The redevelopment effort, with total development costs surpassing $33.4 million, represents the largest and most complex effort undertaken by GROWTH to date. Click here for the full news release.
GROWTH reached reached a monumental milestone by successfully closing on the complex financing needed to signal commencement of construction for the historic, adaptive-reuse redevelopment of McKee Hall/Hostetter Hall and Dezendorf Hall within Shimer Square. This achievement marks the official start in transforming McKee Hall/Hostetter Hall and Dezendorf Hall into 51 units of quality, affordable rental apartments, catering to various living preferences and lifestyles. The redevelopment effort, with total development costs surpassing $33.4 million, represents the largest and most complex effort undertaken by GROWTH to date. Click here for the full news release.
Sawyer House Rehabilitation Update
Posted: 2/6/2024
Rehabilitation and restoration efforts are ongoing within the Sawyer House. Over the summer, construction commenced with the restoration of exterior windows and brick masonry, installation of a new roof, and the addition of a new front entrance and ADA-accessible ramp. Interior renovations included a fully upgraded restroom, plaster restoration, new plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems. Currently, abatement is underway to remediate asbestos in the basement. Upon completion, construction will resume, with an expected wrap-up by the end of February 2024.
Rehabilitation and restoration efforts are ongoing within the Sawyer House. Over the summer, construction commenced with the restoration of exterior windows and brick masonry, installation of a new roof, and the addition of a new front entrance and ADA-accessible ramp. Interior renovations included a fully upgraded restroom, plaster restoration, new plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems. Currently, abatement is underway to remediate asbestos in the basement. Upon completion, construction will resume, with an expected wrap-up by the end of February 2024.
Abatement and New Roof on Hathaway Hall
Posted: 1/30/2024
The abatement and installation of a new roof on Hathaway Hall started in November and, thanks to favorable weather conditions, crews were able to remain on-site to make considerable progress. With the completion of abatement and the installation of a brand-new roof, made possible through GROWTH's Rebuild Illinois grant, the building stands secure and stable, poised for future redevelopment opportunity.
The abatement and installation of a new roof on Hathaway Hall started in November and, thanks to favorable weather conditions, crews were able to remain on-site to make considerable progress. With the completion of abatement and the installation of a brand-new roof, made possible through GROWTH's Rebuild Illinois grant, the building stands secure and stable, poised for future redevelopment opportunity.
Iconic Front Entry Gate Restored to Original Glory
Posted: 9/27/2023
The restoration of the historic front entry gate was finalized in September, as part of GROWTH's efforts to deploy Rebuild Illinois grant, with all bricks meticulously rehabilitated and restored.
The restoration of the historic front entry gate was finalized in September, as part of GROWTH's efforts to deploy Rebuild Illinois grant, with all bricks meticulously rehabilitated and restored.
Tree Trimming at Shimer Square
Posted: 8/29/2023
Tree trimming started taking place this week 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 remains sensitive to the types and ages of the trees throughout the 14-acre campus. A tree is taken down only if it poses imminent risk. 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. It is also GROWTH’s intent to plant trees that were a part of the arboretum once construction is completed.
Tree trimming started taking place this week 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 remains sensitive to the types and ages of the trees throughout the 14-acre campus. A tree is taken down only if it poses imminent risk. 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. It is also GROWTH’s intent to plant trees that were a part of the arboretum once construction is completed.
Construction begins at Shimer Square
Posted: 8/18/2023
Renovation and construction will officially begin on Monday, August 21st 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. On Monday, August 21st, Galena Repair & Maintenance’s subcontractor, Renaissance Restoration, will begin masonry repairs followed by Elevated Roofing starting roof replacement work on Monday, August 28th. IITI will begin abatement work inside the Sawyer House and once completed, Galena Repair and Maintenance will begin the full-scale renovation work. 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. Click here for full news release.
Renovation and construction will officially begin on Monday, August 21st 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. On Monday, August 21st, Galena Repair & Maintenance’s subcontractor, Renaissance Restoration, will begin masonry repairs followed by Elevated Roofing starting roof replacement work on Monday, August 28th. IITI will begin abatement work inside the Sawyer House and once completed, Galena Repair and Maintenance will begin the full-scale renovation work. 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. Click here for full news release.
51 new apartments coming to Shimer Square
Posted: 8/16/2023
Economic Growth Corporation (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 (now $33.4 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 2025. Click here for full news release.
Economic Growth Corporation (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 (now $33.4 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 2025. Click here for full news release.
$1.5 Million Rebuild Illinois contract awarded, pending IL DCEO approval
Posted 8/1/2023
GROWTH 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).
GROWTH 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).
"In 30 and 3"
Posted 6/30/2023
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. Photos below.
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. Photos below.
Campus Advocate Sought
Posted 5/30/2023
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:
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
Market study strongly supports development of childhood development center at Shimer Square
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. More
“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. More
Activity Ahead at Shimer Square: $1.5 Million Rebuild Illinois grant contract awarded, construction to follow
Posted 11/7/2022
Residents in Mount Carroll, IL can expect to see some construction activity beginning at Shimer Square as Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation d/b/a Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) awarded its Rebuild Illinois grant contract on Friday, November 4, 2022. The Rebuild Illinois grant was publicly bid out in two separate contracts: construction and abatement. The construction contract was awarded to Galena Repair & Maintenance and the abatement contract was awarded to the IITI Group. Click here to view full news release.
Residents in Mount Carroll, IL can expect to see some construction activity beginning at Shimer Square as Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation d/b/a Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) awarded its Rebuild Illinois grant contract on Friday, November 4, 2022. The Rebuild Illinois grant was publicly bid out in two separate contracts: construction and abatement. The construction contract was awarded to Galena Repair & Maintenance and the abatement contract was awarded to the IITI Group. Click here to view full news release.
Another win for Shimer Square: GROWTH awarded $800,000 to create Childcare Development Center on Campus
Posted 10/7/2022
Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) was awarded $800,000 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for its Shimer Square Job and Daycare Creation Project. Staff applied through the department’s Community and Economic Development Program (CED) and is the only CED grantee awarded in Illinois for FY 2022. Click here to view full press release.
Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) was awarded $800,000 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for its Shimer Square Job and Daycare Creation Project. Staff applied through the department’s Community and Economic Development Program (CED) and is the only CED grantee awarded in Illinois for FY 2022. Click here to view full press release.
GROWTH seeks RFPs for Shimer Square's first phase of rehabilitation
Posted 10/5/2022
Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation d/b/a Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) is requesting proposals for the following renovations for related to its Rebuild Illinois grant at its Shimer Square redevelopment site, 203 E. Seminary Street, within the corporate limits of Mount Carroll in Carroll County, Illinois. Click here to view full press release.
Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation d/b/a Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) is requesting proposals for the following renovations for related to its Rebuild Illinois grant at its Shimer Square redevelopment site, 203 E. Seminary Street, within the corporate limits of Mount Carroll in Carroll County, Illinois. Click here to view full press release.
Shimer Campus Closed to Public to construction
Due to the commencement of construction, the campus will be closed to the general public until further notice.
Community Invited to celebrate Shimer Square's Redevelopment Kick Off
Posted 5/11/2022
Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) invites the entire community, including residents, local and state elected officials, business, civic and neighborhood leaders, as well as people across the region to join and celebrate the kick off of Shimer Square’s first redevelopment phase at Mayfest on Saturday, May 28th at 2:00 p.m. Click here to view full press release.
Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) invites the entire community, including residents, local and state elected officials, business, civic and neighborhood leaders, as well as people across the region to join and celebrate the kick off of Shimer Square’s first redevelopment phase at Mayfest on Saturday, May 28th at 2:00 p.m. Click here to view full press release.
Shimer Square awarded $1.5 million Rebuild Illinois Grant
Posted 9/21/2021
Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation d/b/a Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) was awarded $1.5 million of Rebuild Illinois funds that completes the capital stack Phase 1 of GROWTH’s multiphase redevelopment of Shimer Square. GROWTH’s application for Shimer Square represents one of 11 total awardees awarded RIRED funds throughout the state of Illinois. Click here to view full press release.
Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation d/b/a Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) was awarded $1.5 million of Rebuild Illinois funds that completes the capital stack Phase 1 of GROWTH’s multiphase redevelopment of Shimer Square. GROWTH’s application for Shimer Square represents one of 11 total awardees awarded RIRED funds throughout the state of Illinois. Click here to view full press release.
GROWTH Awarded for Shimer Square
Posted 5/21/2021
The rehabilitation and redevelopment of the McKee/Hostetter and Dezendorf Halls within Shimer Square is moving forward thanks to the final financing commitment by the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA). IHDA’s Board of Directors unanimously approved the redevelopment effort on Friday, May 21, 2021. Click here to view full press release.
The rehabilitation and redevelopment of the McKee/Hostetter and Dezendorf Halls within Shimer Square is moving forward thanks to the final financing commitment by the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA). IHDA’s Board of Directors unanimously approved the redevelopment effort on Friday, May 21, 2021. Click here to view full press release.
Official: Campus renaming results in a tie between Shimer Square and Shimer Woods
Posted 5/21/2019
The votes are in for the campus renaming with 230 ballots received. The result? A tie between Shimer Square and Shimer Woods. Both names received 94 total votes. The votes were counted three times by GROWTH staff, and the final tally resulting in a tie. Click here to view full press release.
The votes are in for the campus renaming with 230 ballots received. The result? A tie between Shimer Square and Shimer Woods. Both names received 94 total votes. The votes were counted three times by GROWTH staff, and the final tally resulting in a tie. Click here to view full press release.
