GUEST COLUMNIST -- Exciting times for Rockford

New projects in digital access, transportation and real estate

The last few weeks have been extremely exciting in the City of Rockford. We started several projects that are going to be game changers for our entire community.

First, we held the official construction launch of the Rockford FiberCity project, a revolutionary fiberoptic infrastructure investment that will bring fast, affordable and reliable all-fiber internet network to every home, business and institution in the city. The $200 million privately funded project will provide speeds up to 10 Gbps, which is among the fastest residential speeds available in the U.S. It will help bridge the digital divide and help attract more high-tech businesses to our community.

Second, we announced a partnership between the Illinois Department of Transportation and Metra to once again provide safe and reliable passenger rail between Chicago and Rockford, restoring service that was discontinued in 1981. The first trains are anticipated to start running by late 2027, offering efficient, economical travel with stops in between the two cities. The project is funded through $275 million from Gov. Pritzker’s historic, bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital program. To return passenger trains between Chicago and Rockford after more than 40 years, Metra will utilize its Milwaukee District West line and relationships with the Union Pacific Railroad to extend service beyond Elgin to reach Rockford, with expected stops in Huntley and Belvidere.

Finally, after two years of research, due diligence and design work, we have a signed development agreement with J. Jeffers for our Barber Colman Complex. The full $430 million plan, which is expected to be completed over 10 years, includes 500,000 square feet of historical rehabilitation, 1.5 million square feet of new construction, 900 multi-family units and 130,000 square feet of commercial space, as well as public green space and an activated riverfront.

Phase 1A of construction will begin this summer and is expected to be completed in late 2024. The $100 million phase includes the renovation of three existing buildings into 215 apartments, a roof deck, co-working space and the creation of a parking garage with 336 spaces.

Phase 1B, which is scheduled to begin in January of 2025 and cost $70 million, includes rehabilitation of all of the remaining historic buildings. When complete, it will house an additional 119 apartments, as well as space for a restaurant, events and other retail. Phase 2 consists of new construction on the remainder of the property and will be completed in multiple phases. The timing of these phases is dependent on market factors. It will include new construction and parking, as well as 43 three-flats and 74 town-homes.

I’m excited for what is ahead in the City of Rockford. City Staff, City Council and I are working hard to make continuous improvements that enhance the quality of life for every single citizen in our community.

The views expressed are those of Mayor McNamara and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.