While the opening and closing of businesses is a normal part of any downtown landscape, the significant remodeling of older properties is bringing a more lasting transformation to downtown Batavia.
Although large-scale developments often get the headlines, a series of strategic renovations over the past three years have quietly revitalized key locations downtown.
Recently Completed:
- Geneva Winery: Opened at the redeveloped 5 N. River Street. https://www.genevawine.com/.
- Everdine’s: Launched in the renovated property at 227 W. Wilson Street. https://www.everdines.com/
- JT’s Tavern and Tap: Opened following a complete overhaul of its downtown location at 113 S. Batavia Ave. https://www.jtstaverntap.com/.
- Sturdy Shelter: Transformed a historically significant former theater at 10 Shumway Ave into a popular brewery, which became a community gathering space. https://www.sturdyshelterbrewing.com/
- Batavia Park District Building: The Batavia Park District transformed a former office building at 150 Houston Street into a community center and district offices. https://bataviaparks.org/callahan-community-center
- Grainology: A former industrial space at 131 Flinn St Suite C was transformed into a craft brewery and distillery. https://grainologybatavia.com/
- Hearth and Hammer / Warehouse 55 – Although not an altogether happy story with Hearth and Hammer closing. The utterly amazing remodeling of the space at 160 First St. was directly responsible for another business in the same sector relocating to Batavia from Aurora, Warehouse 55. https://www.warehouse55.shop/
Upcoming Developments:
- 106 N. River Street: The ruined “Tin Shop” will be replaced with a public plaza and restrooms.
- 23 N. Water Street: The dilapidated quonset hut is scheduled for demolition.
- 221 W. Wilson Street: The former Olmstead property will soon be for sale, awaiting its next chapter.
- Peace Bridge Ramp : New pedestrian ramp off the Peace Bridge in downtown Batavia. https://www.bataviail.gov/o/pw/page/peace-bridge-ramp
- Additional historical properties are currently for sale in downtown Batavia: https://www.loopnet.com/search/commercial-real-estate/batavia-il/for-sale
Author: Jim Fahrenbach
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