Celebrating the Market Square Groundbreaking

A ceremonial groundbreaking took place yesterday at the northeast corner of Sheridan Road and 28th Street at the site of phase one of Zion Market Square. Phase one of the square will be a three story construction to include an 84-room Best Western Inn and Suites, a banquet hall, first floor retail, a 24-hour fitness facility, and a restaurant.

This structure, which will stand at the site of the historical Zion Hotel, has been designed to reflect–if not downright resemble–the architecture of the old hotel.

Rick Delisle, the developer of Market Square, described how, when complete, Market Square will extend further north to 27th Street and along both sides of Sheridan Road. He confirmed that N&T’s Restaurant, currently in Shiloh Mall, has submitted a letter of intent to the come on board as the hotel’s proposed restaurant, which will also serve the banquet hall.

Delisle praised Zion City Economic Development Advisor, Delaine Rogers, as a “champion of this project.” He also repeatedly thanked Wintrust Bank for working with the him to help finance the development.

“This project started a long, long time ago as a dream. The dream was realized because of tenacity,” said Mayor Lane Harrison in his remarks. He complimented the hard work of the city council and said that they were “dedicated to looking forward, not back.” Mayor Harrison said that for several years now, he and the council have been looking to our neighbors, to the Kenosha and Racine Lakefronts.

“Is there any reason why this can’t be done in Zion?,” he asked.

Many community and Zion Chamber of Commerce members came to witness the groundbreaking. The ceremony was started with a prayer by Tim Richardson. Guests were treated to a cake in the shape and design of the future building.

“Hopefully we will have you all back in about a year to cut a ribbon,” said Delisle.