Village leaders in Sturtevant are trying to attract developers to land that has sat vacant for years. potentially transforming a small community.
More than 10 acres of village-owned land on Highway 11, across from Blain's Farm and Fleet, is up for grabs.
"There's a lot of potential on that land, a lot of potential," said Village Trustee Mike Rosenbaum. "It's sitting there empty. We have a great little community here where, if we could just help it grow. If we put the tools in the right hands."
Rosenbaum says it's the right time to seek developers, because of what's happening just a few miles away.
"It helps with Foxconn coming in the door," he said. "And you know what, these are things that Sturtevant's needed for a long time."
The wish list includes a brew-pub and grocery store.
"I like the idea of a brewery," said Paul Wittrock who lives nearby. "A top end grocery store like a Whole Foods or something that offers a lot of organic options would really be nice for people around here."
The rough draft also incorporates a library, retail, restaurant and office space and a center square with an ice-skating rink and stage.
"Where we hope to have tree lighting, farmers markets, things like that," said Rosenbaum.
"I would definitely like for more activity to be here," said Sturtevant local Samantha Klein. "More events and stuff like that."
There are plans to create a bike path and add a stop light on Highway 11. People who live nearby seem cautiously optimistic.
"I believe that it will happen," said Wittrock. "I just don't know how far down the road it is."
With no developer yet, there is no real timeline.
Others worry that with development and growth spurred by Foxconn, the village could lose its small-town charm.
"We will always do our best to keep Sturtevant, Sturtevant, just make it better," said Rosenbaum.
