Hatch Chicken plans drive-thru at Romeoville's historic site amid redevelopment efforts

A new restaurant is set to revitalize a key intersection in Romeoville, as the Village Board discussed plans for Hatch Chicken, which will feature a drive-thru. The meeting on April 16, 2025, highlighted the importance of this development amid ongoing construction and changes to the Weber Road interchange.

Village officials expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting that it represents a significant investment in the community. "This is a way to try and maintain their business and prosper," said a board member, emphasizing the need for reinvestment in the area to adapt to new competition and evolving traffic patterns.

Daniel Vater, representing the Inaba Oil and Rebel team, underscored the historical significance of the site, stating it has been a community staple for years. He noted that the location had reached a point where it needed revitalization to remain competitive. "We'd like to see a more vibrant flow and expression to the site," he said, indicating that the new restaurant could help achieve that goal.

In addition to the restaurant discussion, the board also addressed ordinance 25-1972, which amends the village's alcoholic beverage code to support the redevelopment efforts. This ordinance aims to provide gaming endorsements that will generate additional revenue to support the investment in the area.

The board's discussions reflect a broader commitment to enhancing the intersection's appeal and functionality, with hopes of attracting more businesses in the future. As the village continues to evolve, officials are optimistic about the positive impact of these developments on the local economy.