Shimer Square: A New Chapter Begins

This video series captures the story of Shimer Square’s transformation- from its historic past to its exciting future. Each video will highlight different milestones and components of the historic, adaptive-reuse redevelopment, bringing viewers behind the scenes to see the progress unfold. More than just bricks and mortar, the series also shines a light on the people making it possible: the visionaries, partners, builders, and other partners working to breathe new life into this historic campus. Together, the video brings together all of these talents to reflect the unwavering commitment to the historic redevelopment of Shimer Square and the vision driving it forward.
The video series was produced by the creative vision of the development team at Economic Growth Corporation, the storytelling talent of our speakers, the creative video production by Little Sea Productions, and financial support from Estes Construction. 
Introduction
The story of Shimer Square begins here. In this first video unveiled on August 19, 2025, we introduce the vision behind the redevelopment and the historic significance of the campus. Viewers will get a glimpse of what’s ahead, as Shimer Square is transformed into a vibrant place to live, work, and grow.

Preserving History at Scale: Shimer Square's Construction Story featuring Estes Construction

A significant component of the success of this campus redevelopment was bringing our general contractor and development team on site from the very beginning. Estes Construction played a critical role from day one, and bringing them on early made all the difference. 
Through four years of preconstruction, Estes Construction helped assemble the right team, prioritize historic integrity, and plan for the careful restoration of every detail. Once on site, their leadership and collaboration ensured the buildings were returned to their original character- blending craftsmanship you rarely see today with modern execution.

From managing 60–75 skilled tradespeople to preserving historic elements at every turn, Estes Construction delivered with precision, care, and expertise—ultimately helping bring 51 units of affordable housing to life. We are proud to have them as a partner with a team that understood both the responsibility and the impact of this work that resulted in 51 units of affordable housing. 

Special thanks to: Nathan Billany, Senior Director of Business Development; Sam Pilcher, Project Engineer; Kendall Deter, Preconstruction Manager, and Clint Hoeger, Project Superintendent alongside Brian Hollenback, President/CEO and Andrew Fisher, Construction Director of Economic Growth Corporation for always helping share the amazing story of Shimer Square.
Bringing History Back to Life
Showcasing the historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and skilled craftsmanship behind the restoration of Shimer Square's McKee and Hostetter Hall in Mt. Carroll, Illinois. Special thanks to Beth Baranski and Jim Baranski of Baranski Hammer Moretta & Sheehy Architects & Planners, Terry Cole of RENAISSANCE RESTORATION, INC., whose 30+ years with the campus came full circle, and we gave a shout out to Otto Baum Company, Inc. for their exceptional skill in historic tuckpointing. Also, gratitude to Estes Construction for their care in this project and support in this video production, and all the skilled workers on site for their consistent care.

Advancing Childcare and Workforce Development

Childcare isn’t just about a building where children spend their day while parents work. It is a nucleus for families, an early learning center, and a cornerstone of community growth. The Honey Bee Early Learning Center at Shimer Square became a reality through meaningful partnerships that span multiple counties and statewide efforts. Built in collaboration with the City of Mount Carroll in direct response to families voicing their needs, this center is more than a project- it’s a promise kept. We are thankful to our many funders and for 4-C: Community Coordinated Childcare, the operator of Honey Bee Early Learning Center. Watch the full story in our video below.
Equal Opportunity Provider. 
Shimer Square is deeply committed to honoring the legacy of this historic campus 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
  • ​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. ​