Commercial Space, Townhomes Planned For Former Ace Hardware Site

OAK FOREST, IL — Oak Forest officials this week took a next step toward revitalizing the property formerly occupied by Ace Hardware.

The blighted Ace Hardware, 15541 S. Cicero Ave., was demolished in February 2024 as part of city officials' efforts to revitalize Cicero Avenue. Vacant since the store's closing more than a decade ago, the City purchased the building and the land on which it sits in 2016, then selling it at a later date, before buying it back in 2023 to "expedite marketing and redevelopment of the site," Communications Director Chrissy Maher previously told Patch.

Approved by the City Council this week, the newly proposed project includes a 5,000-square-foot commercial space with a drive-thru, and 29 modern townhomes, the City said Wednesday.

A tenant for the commercial space has not yet been secured, the City said.

"... the development aims to attract businesses that will enhance the local economy and serve Oak Forest residents," the City said.

Leading the project is Deshe Real Estate, a developer "creating a strong track record in constructing successful mixed-use developments and securing capital for transformative projects.

"This initiative aligns with the city's ongoing efforts to attract investment and improve underutilized spaces."

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