St. Charles Invites Developers to Revitalize Downtown First Street

The city of St. Charles is actively seeking proposals from developers to contribute to the revitalization of a specific area on First Street in the downtown region. The city prioritizes proposals that incorporate housing options, emphasizing a holistic approach to urban development. Interested parties must submit their proposals by February 6, 2026.

The site available for development is located at the northeast corner of Illinois Street and Second Street. This area represents the final element of the city’s ongoing First Street revitalization project, which has seen significant progress since its inception.

In a recent announcement, Heather McGuire, the city administrator, expressed the desire for a developer who can present an innovative and creative vision that enhances the downtown atmosphere. “As the final component of the highly successful First Street Development, it is important that the concept captures the personality, energy, and engaging elements that characterize the project,” McGuire stated.

The initial plans for this land, dating back to 2006, envisioned a mix of multi-story buildings featuring businesses on the ground floor and residential or office spaces above. However, city officials are open to new and diverse ideas that may depart from previous concepts. “The City is looking for a project that complements the surrounding area while bringing fresh ideas to the table—especially those that incorporate additional residential units to help balance the overall mix of the First Street Development,” city officials noted in a press release.

Developers interested in this opportunity should submit any questions they have to the city by December 1, 2025. Questions can be directed to the city via email at [email protected]. The city plans to publish responses to these inquiries by December 9, 2025, on its construction bid webpage at stcharlesil.gov/bids-proposals.

The selection process for the chosen developer is expected to commence in February 2026, with construction anticipated to begin sometime between the summer of 2026 and 2027. As St. Charles continues to evolve, this project represents a significant step in enhancing the urban landscape, focusing on community development and the integration of residential living within the downtown core.