One of our key focuses at the Economic Alliance is residential development.
We work with developers and builders to identify and overcome development barriers, engage with community members to better understand local housing needs, promote quality of life and livability, and help streamline permitting and approval processes.
According to the Residential Market Analysis of Kankakee County by Tracy Cross & Associates, Kankakee County needs approximately 450 new housing units each year to keep pace with demand. This includes a housing mix that spans the needs of our differing and vibrant municipalities.
That need is already being addressed through new residential developments, including:
- Groundbreaking at Pony Farms in Bourbonnais, a subdivision by Security Lumber
- Wildwood Residences, a 40-unit complex set for Kankakee
- Consistent new homes throughout Kankakee County by many local home builders
As we look toward the future of residential growth, it’s equally important to invest in the housing that already exists. Vacant lots and rehabilitation projects create opportunities to add new housing, increase property values, and strengthen neighborhoods. Adaptive reuse of existing and historic structures expands our housing supply while preserving the character and history of our communities.
The Kankakee Regional Land Bank Authority is gaining traction in turning vacant or abandoned homes into viable properties. It’s mission is to acquire for development parcels that are at risk of becoming vacant, abandoned, and tax-delinquent in Kankakee County.
Meaningful progress happens one lot, one home, and one neighborhood at a time.
The opportunities for growth are real, and the momentum is building. Now is the time to invest in the future of Kankakee County’s residential development.
A Deeper Dive:
Subdivisions with lot availability
- Aroma Park … River Run
- Bourbonnais … Cobblestone, Stone Mill, Prairie Chase, Meadowbrook, High Point
- Bradley … Hunters Run, Summerfield
- Kankakee … Indian Meadows, Prairie Walk
- Kankakee County … River Haven, River Bend, Bordeaux Estates, Illinois Diversatech
- Manteno … Eagles Landing, Parkwest, Rock Creek, Windfield Estates, Wright Estates
Residential Enterprise Zone
Residential development incentives include:
- Free or discounted building permits
- Sales tax exemption on building materials that are permanently affixed to the property
Learn more about residential Enterprise Zones here
Kankakee Regional Land Bank Authority
This intergovernmental land bank assists in identifying, stabilizing, and returning to productive use distressed properties. The revitalization of properties and neighborhoods across the County is a critical piece of residential growth and development.
