Potter's Place Owners Proposing Oswego Mexican Restaurant

OSWEGO, IL — On Oct. 2, the Oswego Village Board is expected to consider a redevelopment agreement that would bring a new Mexican grill and other improvements to the former Chamber of Commerce site, 63 W. Washington Street, in downtown Oswego.

The agreement with Naperville-based developer JLAT paves the way for a new casual dining restaurant concept developed by partners in the successful Potter’s Place and Jimmy’s Grill in Naperville that will feature outdoor seating and a full bar. This is the first development planned for the former Village Hall block, which when finished will also include a three-story mixed-use development on Main Street and a complete reimagining of the streetscape.

“We think this new restaurant concept combining delicious food, refreshing beverages, live music, professional service and a fun atmosphere will be a great fit for Oswego with all the exciting changes on the horizon for Downtown,” said JLAT president Andrew Trasatt. “We have great faith in Oswego’s leadership and its vision for the downtown and really see Oswego as an amazing opportunity for growth.”

As part of the agreement, the Village will transfer the property for the restaurant to the developer for $10, to be reimbursed later through TIF revenue. All other private development costs will be paid for by the developer.

The Village will fund all the public improvements related to the development, including a new public parking lot, the complete reconstruction of a portion of Adams Street, redesign of the alley to make it an inviting pedestrian-friendly attraction, and infrastructure improvements including electric line relocation and water and sewer replacement. The cost of public improvements is expected to be repaid to the Village through TIF revenue and sales taxes, and the improvements will benefit other properties on the block and support future redevelopment.

“We know that part of what our residents really want in a revitalized downtown includes more dining options, and we are elated to be able to achieve that with this new concept,” said Village President Gail Johnson. “This project is more than a restaurant. It’s new development from the ground up, almost an entire block in our downtown that will be unique and inviting for visitors, and we’re excited to embark on this project with a team that really shares in that vision.”

If approved, construction on the block is expected to begin in March 2019. Under the terms of the redevelopment agreement, the restaurant will be open by spring 2020.

Submitted by the Village of Oswego

Photo via Google Maps Streetview