Commercial/ Community Redevelopment Sites

GROWTH is open to conversations with those interested in being part of Shimer Square's evolving story. We see the redevelopment of this historic campus as a collaborative effort and recognize that not all projects need to be led by GROWTH. We're here to support small businesses, community centers, alumni groups, and visionary partners who share our mission of revitalization. If you have a passion for shaping a vibrant future at Shimer Square, with amenities like art galleries, food, retail, and wellness spaces, we welcome the opportunity to discuss your vision and explore how we can support bringing it to life. 
Howe Hall is currently under a letter of intent for rehabilitation, with plans to transform it into a microbrewery featuring lodging accommodations.
The remaining properties at Shimer Square are looking for redevelopment opportunities to support and grow small business, entrepreneurship, and start-ups.
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Tolman Hall
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Campbell Library
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Gymnasium
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Metcalf Hall
Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community-based development organization and the developer of Shimer Square. At GROWTH, we’re driven by a commitment to honor Shimer Square’s history with the respect it deserves. Our work represents years of dedication, countless hours, and tireless efforts from a passionate, mission-driven team. The total overall investment at Shimer Square will exceed $37 million resulting in at least a 1988.24% increase in tax base in 2025: creating and supporting 260 jobs, along with 51 new housing units, marking the first new construction multifamily development in Carroll County in over 2 decades, along with creating vital childcare openings, and a Resource Center within a previously vacant, underutilized historic campus. Every step forward is a nod to the past and a bridge to the future. 
​Until further notice, due to active construction, the Shimer Square campus located at 203 Seminary Street, Mount Carroll, IL is closed to the general public.
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Equal Opportunity Provider. 
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. ​