Council approves lease and development agreement with Shades of Pale to bring brewery to the Roundhouse

Evanston's City Council on Feb. 7 approved a package of resolutions to authorize a development agreement, a notice of first right of refusal and a lease with Shades of Pale Incorporated to put a production brewery and a tasting-room restaurant in sections of the Roundhouse.

City staff and the Shades of Pale co-owners described a phased plan: move primary production to the Roundhouse to supply six states, hire locally and later open the restaurant and event space. Rocco O'Neal, the city's community development staff member, told the council the city will provide certain core building improvements (floors, seismic work, drains, HVAC, exterior doors and electrical/plumbing not to exceed $1.5 million) and will administer architect and contractor selection with Shades' input.

Shades co-owner Trent Farger said the company expects to hire local workers and expand operations. "We plan to hire locally here," Farger said. He described current production staff of about four and projected growth to at least six production workers, plus roughly 14 restaurant/bar employees as the hospitality side ramps up.

Council and residents pressed the applicants on logistics, including truck access, water use and construction scheduling. Farger said deliveries would likely be limited to two or three large trucks per week and that current water use is roughly "120,000 gallons a month." He and his partner said their intent is to make the Roundhouse a long-term home: "we will be here until we retire," Farger said.

Staff told the council Shades will install trade fixtures and equipment at an estimated cost of about $1.3 million and will obtain all required licenses and permits, including liquor and environmental approvals. City staff said their goal is to complete the initial production build to allow brewing by early summer, while noting the June 1 target is optimistic and will depend on design and contractor procurement.

Councilmembers cited economic development and the Roundhouse's unique historic character in supporting the project. After public questions and a brief discussion of design and site logistics, the council introduced and passed Resolutions 2310 (development agreement), 2311 (notice of first right of refusal) and 2312 (lease) by voice vote.

Next steps include architect selection, detailed design, permitting and construction oversight; the council's approvals allow staff to proceed with contracting and negotiation of final documents. The project proponents and staff said they will return to the council with plans and timing as those pieces are finalized.