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America's second oldest mall transformed into a vibrant Urban Village

Constructed in 1964, Lincoln Square became the first enclosed shopping mall in the State of Illinois and the second mall in all of the United States. After serving the area for more than forty years, the Mall is being tranformed into an Urban Village. Lincoln Square Village sits in the heart of Urbana, Illinois, a growing downtown that has undergone significant revitalization efforts in the last 4 years.

Lincoln Square Village will become a hub of activity for shopping, working, dining, and living. The plan to recreate this center will reflect the same high standards established forty years ago, consistent with a national trend toward a return to downtowns.

Speaking on behalf of the ownership group, Jim and Phyllis Webster explained, "Because of our belief that Urbana is poised for tremendous growth and opportunity, the decision has been made to renovate and expand Lincoln Square. In doing so, Lincoln Square Village will be uniquely positioned to cater to the community with new offices, restaurants, retail shops and apartments."

Construction on the multi-million dollar project will begin within the next thirty days and will consist of multiple phases, beginning with converting the former department store space to smaller retail shops, a fitness center, and offices.

Lincoln Square Village will offer the opportunity for plenty of new retail space. 8,500 square feet of retail space will be available on the east side of Lincoln Square facing Vine Street and 9,000 square feet of new retail space will be created facing the high court. Target tenants for these spaces will be unique concepts between 1,000 and 3,000 square feet.

Redevelopment plans for Lincoln Square Village are in line with the City of Urbana's Downtown Strategic Plan which encourages growth and transparency of Lincoln Square. The residential component of the Village will consist of upscale loft apartment units designed around a center courtyard. The courtyard will incorporate 'green' construction techniques which are beginning to emerge. The units will have lofts and patios with views of both the center courtyard and downtown.