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City of Batavia Seeks Developer for Downtown River Street Redevelopment Project

CommunityEconomicGeneral News ArticleHuman InterestPress Release

(BATAVIA IL, Oct. 15, 2025) – The City of Batavia is seeking qualified developers to partner in the redevelopment of a key downtown property as part of its long-range vision for a more vibrant and connected city center.
 
The City’s Community and Economic Development Department is now accepting Requests for Proposals, or RFPs, for the acquisition and redevelopment of approximately 0.68 acres of City-owned property located on North River Street in the heart of downtown Batavia. Proposals will be accepted until noon on Dec. 22.

The site lies near the east bank of the Fox River, one block west of Washington Street (Illinois Route 25), and directly adjacent to the North River Street entertainment district, a walkable corridor known for its shops, restaurants, and outdoor events.
 
“This location offers a prime opportunity for a creative, high-quality redevelopment that complements the energy of downtown Batavia,” said Anthony Isom, Jr., Batavia’s Economic Development Manager. “The City is eager to collaborate with a developer that shares our vision of a thriving, walkable, and historically rooted community.”
 
A Strategic Opportunity for Mixed-Use Redevelopment
 
The City is inviting proposals for a mixed-use redevelopment project, preferably up to four stories in height, featuring commercial space on the ground floor with the possibility of upper-story residential or office uses. A public parking component may also be considered.
 
The City seeks to establish a public-private partnership with a development team that demonstrates experience in urban infill projects, land acquisition, financial planning, construction, and long-term management. The successful respondent will be expected to guide the project through all stages of development, including design, permitting, and construction.
 
Goals for redevelopment include:

  • Revitalizing underutilized downtown properties.
  • Supporting economic growth through new commercial and residential opportunities.
  • Enhancing Batavia’s walkability, bike ability, and access to the riverfront.
  • Aligning new construction with the City’s historic character and architectural guidelines.
Economic development incentives may be available because the site is located within Tax Increment Financing District 6, depending on the project’s scope and timing.
 
Grounded in the Batavia Downtown Plan
 
This redevelopment opportunity represents one of the first major steps toward implementing the Batavia Downtown Plan, which the City Council adopted in June 2024 as part of Batavia’s Comprehensive Plan. The plan was developed through extensive public input and serves as a blueprint for shaping the community’s future growth while preserving its small-town charm.
 
“The Downtown Plan captures the community’s shared vision for a lively, inclusive, and economically resilient downtown,” said Laura Newman, City Administrator. “This redevelopment site is a tangible opportunity to put that vision into action.”
 
As the oldest city in Kane County, Batavia’s rich heritage and distinctive architecture continue to define its identity. Over the past two decades, Batavia has grown into a hub for innovation and industry, with more than 300 manufacturing, research, and warehousing firms. The City also remains a destination for families, entrepreneurs, and visitors who are drawn to its historic downtown, scenic Fox River, and welcoming atmosphere.
 
Supporting Resources and Submission Details
 
Developers interested in submitting proposals can access the following reference materials at www.bataviail.gov: Each proposal should include a detailed project narrative, conceptual site plans, and elevation drawings illustrating the proposed design and scale.
 
“The City is not simply seeking to sell the land,” Isom said. “We’re looking to create a partnership that brings meaningful investment and activity to downtown, enhancing what makes Batavia special.”
 
Complete bid information is available at bataviail.gov/bids.
 
Batavia is located 35 miles west of Chicago along the banks of the Fox River. Settled in the 1830s, Batavia earned the nickname ‘The Windmill City’ when it was the windmill manufacturing capital of the world at the turn of the 20th Century. Batavia is home to more than 1,200 businesses, including Fermilab National Accelerator Laboratory, the U.S. Headquarters of Aldi Inc, and Suncast Corporation. Batavia’s historic charm, excellent school system, and unparalleled recreational and shopping amenities make it a great place to live, work and play for its over 26,000 residents.
 
Image attached: Aerial view of the North River Street parcel for redevelopment opportunities. (Photo credit City of Batavia.)

 

City of Batavia Seeks Developer for Downtown River Street Redevelopment Project