A revised plan for a $5.9 million mixed-use development in Peoria’s Warehouse District will bring substantially more housing to the neighborhood and less street-level commercial space. The City Council unanimously approved changes that increase the project from eight apartments to 21, while adding residential amenities and leaving room for a smaller commercial tenant.
Key takeaways
- The project at 906-910 SW Adams St. will expand from eight loft-style apartments to 21.
- Planned commercial space will fall from more than 12,000 square feet to about 2,100 square feet.
- Proposed first-floor amenities include a sauna and gym.
- City officials say added housing could support future commercial development, including possible grocery service.
The revised agreement changes a redevelopment plan the council initially approved in June. The project is being developed by WS Investments.
More apartments, smaller units
The revised plans call for smaller one- and two-bedroom apartments rather than the larger loft-style units in the original proposal. Assistant City Manager Kimberly Richardson said the new unit sizes are more in line with other housing in the Warehouse District.
The first floor also will be reconfigured. Instead of extensive retail space, the plan includes a smaller commercial footprint alongside the sauna and gym.
City sees housing as a catalyst
Richardson told the council that adding residents could help strengthen the district’s tax base and create more opportunities for businesses. She said higher residential density can contribute to economic development and support commercial uses as the area grows into a neighborhood.
Council members unanimously approved amending the existing redevelopment agreement. The change shifts the project’s balance toward housing while retaining space for a commercial use.
Grocery store interest remains a possibility
In response to a question from council member Tim Riggenbach, Richardson said a grocery business could be considered for the building’s commercial space. She said city officials are looking to have that conversation and have seen interest in some type of grocer serving the area as more people move into the district.
No grocery tenant was identified in the project update. The revised plans reserve a smaller commercial area, but a specific use has not been announced.
