PEORIA, Ill. – A local real estate organization doesn’t want to see vacant lots at former school sites in South Peoria.
Demolition is underway for the former McKinley School. Demolition of Harrison School will take place once McKinley is complete.
Peoria Area Association of Realtors CEO Jennifer Hamm says the lots could be used to fill some needs in South Peoria. She says a recent study completed by a real estate consulting firm identified the need for grocery stores, retail shops, housing, and medical offices.
“We don’t want to see that vacant land sit there for many years without redevelopment,” Hamm said. “We want to give hope to the residents in that area, and we want to keep that momentum going.”
Hamm says a public-private partnership to help fund any redevelopment project is a top priority. For example, she could see funds used to not only fund housing, but to help make it easier for people to afford a home.
“Some people do not have the ability to purchase their own home right away. They may have to build equity; rent-to-own, or equity to own. That’s two programs they suggested,” Hamm said.
Hamm says the process of figuring out what to do with the sites is in the early stages. She adds a meeting is planned for May to discuss the next steps.
