For Immediate Release
HERITAGE SQUARE RIBBON CUTTING HELD TO CELEBRATE FIRST PHASE OF CONSTRUCTION (PEORIA HEIGHTS)
Michael V. Lewis, owner of Peoria Construction Company, held a ribbon cutting at Heritage Square - "The French Quarter of the Midwest" - in Peoria Heights on Thursday, September 15th at 4:00 p.m. Mayor Mark Allen , along with other area dignitaries, were in attendance to celebrate completion of the development's first phase of construction .In addition, several members of the Village Board and Chamber of Commerce expressed their support .
As part of the ribbon cutting, Paul Heuerman, Executive Vice President of Heritage Bank of Central Illinois, presented a check for $10,000 to the American Red Cross to aid the Gulf Coast's hurricane victims.
Located on the site of the former Kelly Avenue Grade School at 4450 N. Prospect Road in Peoria Heights, Heritage Square has been anticipated since construction began last March. The 75,000-square-foot, two-story mixed-use complex is designed to accommodate retail stores, restaurants and other businesses. Inspired by the French Quarter in New Orleans, Heritage Square features the Quarter's Spanish-style wrought ironwork, an open courtyard plaza and sheltered walkways to accommodate visitor's in all kinds of weather.
Lewis indicated that plans are alreaady under way for a second phase of construction based on prospective tenant interest. As developer of the project, he seeks a variety of tenants - specialty stores, clothing boutiques, casual and fine dining establishments, salons and service businesses - which will appeal to all ages.
For more information or to set up an interview, please contact:
Brenda Tomlinson, Director of Public Relations
McDaniels Marketing Communications
(309) 346-0512 | Email: btomlinson@ewmcd.com
For Immediate Release: February 17, 2004
Peoria Construction Company to Begin Development of "The French Quarter of the Midwest"
(Peoria Heights) Michael V. Lewis, owner of Peoria Construction Company, has unveiled plans to develop a two-story, mixed-use (retail/business) complex in Peoria Heights called "Heritage Square." Lewis, who purchased the site of the former Kelly Avenue Grade School, says construction should begin sometime in March.
Desiring to bring something totally different to this area, Lewis says inspiration for Heritage Square came from the French Quarter in New Orleans. "The French Quarter is just about the most interesting place on earth, architecturally and culturally," Lewis said. "Our goal is to capture its best attributes – its diversity, ornate designs and enduring ability to capture people's attention. Heritage Square will be the French Quarter of the Midwest." The 75,000-square-foot, two-story structure will feature the Quarter's Spanish-style wrought ironwork, an open courtyard plaza, and sheltered walkways to accommodate pedestrians in all kinds of weather.
Built in 1916, the Kelly Avenue Grade School was considered too dilapidated for use and was closed in 2001. It had been for sale ever since, but Lewis considered the site ideal for Heritage Square and began taking steps to purchase the property last September. "Due to the presence of asbestos, we have no choice but to demolish the school," he said, "but we believe this development will add to the special ambience of this community." He added that EPA guidelines will be followed carefully during demolition, and area residents will be in no danger from the asbestos.
"Peoria Heights is emerging as an area of economic growth and opportunity," Lewis said. "A healthy, local economy and cooperative village officials have provided an essential foundation for successful individual businesses. As a result, Peoria Heights offers one-of-a-kind owner-operated stores and restaurants." He explained that the village's residents and visitors have already demonstrated support of unique experiences and venues, and he expects Heritage Square to prosper as well.
"It's my hope that Peoria Heights will become the destination spot for a day," Lewis continued. "By attracting both residents and tourists alike, Heritage Square will add to the village's economic vitality... a clear benefit to everyone."
He added that tenants from a local, regional and national level are being sought. "I envision a dynamic group," Lewis said. "Specialty stores, clothing boutiques, casual and fine dining establishments, salons and service businesses... there's a lot of room for creativity here! Like New Orleans' French Quarter, we'd like to see an eclectic mix represented that will appeal to all ages."
Anchored by a financial institution and an insurance company, Heritage Square will offer tenants 1,500-square-foot retail/office spaces, with an option of leasing more than one. Parking is expected to accommodate more than 200 vehicles both on-site and off-street. Interested tenants can go to www.heritagesquare.biz for more information and architectural drawings. In addition, ongoing updates will be available online.
For more information or to set up an interview, please contact:
Brenda Tomlinson, Director of Public Relations
McDaniels Marketing Communications
(309) 346-0512 | Email: btomlinson@ewmcd.com