Oswego EDC report: new leases, boardwalk concept and multiple downtown openings advance

Economic development staff told the Oswego Economic Development Commission that several downtown and corridor projects are advancing, including a signed lease for a full-service restaurant at the former Tap House location and multiple buildouts and openings planned across the village.

A staff member told commissioners, “I received confirmation from the landlord today that they have a signed lease with a full service restaurant,” for the Tap House site. The tenant’s name and exact build-out scope remained under wraps at the meeting; staff said they expect to meet with the new operator next week.

174 Harrison and Barkville Buddies

Staff said a concept plan for 174 Harrison — described as a boardwalk‑style cluster of shops with outdoor seating and food trucks — will be presented to the village board at the next meeting as a nonbinding concept. The property owner is also bringing a special-use application to repurpose an existing industrial-oriented building into retail space; plan commission recommended the application unanimously. One potential tenant identified in documents and leasing discussions is Barkville Buddies, a dog-focused social bar and dog park concept; staff said the project requires additional approvals, including site-plan and floodplain items.

Other projects and openings

- Duncan: Received Illinois Department of Transportation approval for right-of-way work and is expected to begin construction this summer on an 800-square-foot drive-through-only location. - Benderson development (Route 34 corridor): Site work and fencing are underway for a grocery anchor and a 10,000-square-foot retail building; developer intends to proceed with ground-up construction later this summer with a goal of opening before year end. - Skechers and Nori Sushi: Skechers is completing tenant buildout; Nori Sushi recently received liquor-license approval and awaits final inspection. - Candy Cloud: A specialty beverage operator expected to open between Bibibop and Sherwin-Williams pending signage approvals. - Gas and Wash: Convenience store and gas station is open; two restaurant tenants on the site (Woody's Wings and Scooters) are expected to open later this summer. - Danelli's (Danelle's) building: Under contract and moving forward toward a potential closing next month; staff said leasing activity is ongoing.

Staff also reported ongoing leasing activity downtown, business retention visits (Kohl’s and others), and franchise/developer outreach from recent trade shows. A planned real-estate-broker open-house has been postponed to a later date (early winter or spring 2026) to allow more time for coordination; staff indicated budget funds remain for at least one promotional event.

Ending

Staff closed by saying several of these projects will appear before the village board in coming weeks for concept presentations, special-use approvals or permits and that the EDC would be kept informed as tenants finalize leases and construction schedules.