Industry crowded the banks of the Rock River in the late 1800s, harnessing water flowing from the river into Kent Creek and man-made channels to turn mills and operate machinery. In 1894, inventor Howard Colman partnered with investor W. A. Barber and founded Barber & Colman in a modest office in Rockford’s Waterpower District. They established their first factory building at the southwest corner of Loomis and Rock Streets on what eventually grew into a manufacturing campus with over 20 structures, spanning twenty-three acres in what is now known as the southwest corridor which is considered the South Main entrance to Rockford via the bypass.
The historic complex had been vacated and closed its doors in 2001. In 2002, the City of Rockford purchased the property and began the environmental assessment and cleanup process to better position the property for redevelopment.
In 2017, the entire South Main roadway was removed and replaced with new pavement, curbs, sidewalks, traffic signals, storm sewers and new water lines. The investment set the stage for the South Main Street rebirth with the $19 million project reconstruction of the 1.6-mile stretch of the corridor. a new passenger rail station is planned on the street to taking travelers to and from Rockford and Chicago.
In 2021, after sitting vacant for two decades, Rockford City Council approved the sale of the Barber Colman Campus to J. Jeffers & Company. The development group based in Milwaukee, specializes in the adaptive reuse of historical properties. It is their continued mission, to preserve the heritage of the campus.
2023, the new project by the Milwaukee-based company will be called Colman Yards which will include a mixture of residential and commercial uses that will be a multi-cultural destination point, and it is the intention of the Rockford Aquarium to be part of the Campus for the entire community to experience and be a catalyst for redevelopment and economic growth of the Southwest corridor.
As a result, the aquarium as a tourist attraction will play a pivotal role in the local and the regional economies. Radiating south from Rockford’s near downtown, there has been an investment of over one hundred and sixty million dollars along the South Main Corridor and more major investments are in the works.
The addition of residential apartments and commercial and retail space will create a vibrant mixed-use development that can contribute to the economic growth and revitalization of the area. The project will also provide new opportunities for employment and housing, which can help to improve the quality of life for local residents.
The Colman Yards will become a twenty-three acre, ten building complex consisting of renovated and new construction residential apartments as well as commercial and retail space. This adaptive reuse project will preserve the historic significance of the site while also bringing new life and economic opportunities to the area.
The new housing options will provide much-needed affordable and market-rate apartments, while the commercial and retail space will create job opportunities for local residents.
By repurposing the Barber-Colman campus, the project will breathe new life into a site that has been neglected for nearly four decades, bringing renewed attention and investment to the area. The revitalization of the site will also contribute to the overall improvement of the community’s quality of life, offering a range of amenities and services that were previously lacking.
This development is a great example of how adaptive reuse and historic preservation can be combined with economic development and community revitalization efforts to create a brighter future which will have positive ripple effects for the surrounding community.
The retail space to the site will create a hub of activity that can attract more foot traffic to the area, potentially boosting sales for other nearby businesses. The new housing options will also bring new residents to the area, increasing an additional customer base for local businesses.
The total revitalization of the property will help to improve the overall aesthetic of South Main Street, potentially attracting even more investment and development to the South Main Street area. The project indeed will spur other regional developers and property owners in the area to invest in their properties as well, further contributing to the revitalization of the South Main corridor and bringing new economic opportunities, new residents, and new investment to the community.
Photo Credits to – Studio GWA
Nestled along the picturesque Rock River, the historic Ziock Building in Rockford, Illinois, stood as a silent witness to the city’s past for decades. However, the building’s faded glory caught the attention of visionary developers, and what followed was an ambitious eight-year restoration and redevelopment project that has breathed new life into this iconic structure. Today, the old Ziock Building now stands tall as a four-star hotel and conference center, a testament to the power of collaboration and determination in preserving history and transforming communities.
The Ziock Building holds a special place in Rockford’s history, having been an integral part of the city’s landscape for many years. Landmarks Illinois recognized its significance by including it in their “Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois”. The building’s architectural charm and its location in the River Edge Redevelopment Zone added to its historical importance, making it a symbol of the city’s heritage.
The dream of revitalizing the Ziock Building and transforming it into a modern hotel and conference center had been on Rockford’s vision list for over three decades. In 2015, Wisconsin-based Gorman & Co. took up the challenge, embarking on an $87.5 million redevelopment journey that would reshape the building’s destiny. Little did they know that it would take eight years of hard work, meticulous planning, and unwavering commitment to turn this vision into a reality.
The restoration and redevelopment of the Ziock Building was no easy feat. It required a delicate balance between preserving its historic charm and integrating contemporary elements that would meet the demands of the modern traveler and conference-goer. The project’s success hinged on the expertise of architects, historians, and skilled craftsmen who meticulously restored the building’s facade, ensuring it retained its original grandeur.
Inside, the hotel boasts four-star amenities, elegantly combining comfort with a nod to the building’s heritage. Guests are treated to stunning views of the Rock River and downtown Rockford, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone staying within its walls.
The addition of a conference center within the Ziock Building has further amplified its significance to the community. With state-of-the-art facilities and ample space to host events, meetings, and conferences, the center has opened doors to new business opportunities and economic growth for Rockford. It beckons corporate travelers and industry events, putting the city on the map for professionals seeking an ideal venue.
Beyond its economic impact, the Ziock Building’s redevelopment has served as a powerful symbol of possibility for the Rockford community. Its eight-year transformation stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of collaboration and the realization of dreams. The successful completion of this ambitious project has ignited a sense of pride and hope among residents, showcasing that big dreams can indeed be realized with perseverance and unity.
The restoration and redevelopment of the Ziock Building on South Main in Rockford, represents a remarkable journey that encapsulates the essence of historical preservation, community collaboration, and the creation of a vibrant future. The once-forgotten building has been lovingly brought back to life as a four-star hotel and conference center, offering a harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern luxury.
Today, the Embassy Suites by Hilton™ Rockford Riverfront & Rockford Conference Center stands tall as a true testament to the city’s spirit of innovation and preservation. This remarkable hotel defines uniqueness with its industrial chic look and feel, creating a memorable experience for all who step foot inside its doors. Situated at 416 S. Main Street, this completely repurposed and renovated property has breathed new life into the area, becoming Winnebago County’s largest and only full-service hotel in the downtown vicinity. With 160 spacious two-room suites, a plethora of amenities, and an impressive 20,000 square feet of conference meeting space, the Embassy Suites exudes elegance and promises to be an unforgettable destination for travelers and event-goers alike.
The Embassy Suites by Hilton™ Rockford Riverfront & Conference Center boasts a distinctive industrial chic’ aesthetic that blends the best of Rockford’s industrial past with contemporary design elements. The architects and designers behind this transformation managed to retain the building’s historic charm while infusing it with modern touches. The result is a captivating ambiance that reflects the city’s heritage and cultural significance.
The Embassy Suites holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Its prominent location along the Rock River allows guests to indulge in stunning views of the waterfront and the city’s skyline. With its prime address on Main Street, it serves as a gateway to the vibrant cultural scene and thriving downtown atmosphere.
Upon stepping into the Embassy Suites, guests are greeted with the warm embrace of elegance and comfort. The hotel features 160 spacious two-room suites, ensuring ample space for relaxation and rejuvenation. Each suite is thoughtfully appointed with modern amenities, plush furnishings, and a design that caters to the needs of both leisure and business travelers.
The culinary offerings at the Embassy Suites are nothing short of exceptional. With two restaurants on-site, guests can embark on a gastronomic journey featuring a diverse array of flavors and cuisines. Whether indulging in local delights or savoring international favorites, the dining experience is a delight to the taste buds.
The hotel’s allure extends beyond its luxurious suites and delectable dining options. A treasure trove of amenities awaits guests, including an indoor pool and hot tub for relaxation, a cutting-edge golf simulator for avid golfers, and a well-equipped fitness center for health-conscious travelers.
The Rockford Riverfront & Conference Center shines as a leading venue for conferences and events in the region. The hotel accommodates gatherings of all sizes with state-of-the-art facilities and top-notch services. From corporate conferences to memorable weddings, this venue has it all.
The Hotel welcomes guests from all corners of the world, it stands tall as a beacon of inspiration for Rockford, signaling that the preservation of history and the pursuit of dreams are inextricably intertwined. This revitalized landmark serves as a testament to the incredible returns on effort that can be achieved through collaboration, leaving an indelible mark on the city and its people for generations to come.
Photo Credits- Embassy Suites by Hilton™ Riverfront & Conference Center
On South Main and Cedar Street, Gorman & Co. has partnered with Studio GWA to redevelop several historic buildings. In Rockford’s industrial past, there was a distribution network along the railroad tracks including the Shumway-Condon Seed Company building, and the Bartlett-Mack building. The developers will be breaking ground on the project in early 2023 with more than a twenty-one-million-dollar investment. These will become loft apartments marketed to work-from-home professionals and entrepreneurs, and as artist live-work spaces making shared office space and conference rooms available to all residents.
Urban Equity Properties is actively converting a hundred and thirty-year-old industrial complex into a residential loft apartment building called the Waterpower Lofts on South Main. Plans are to provide sixty-four modern apartments that maintain the historic and industrial character of the building. The developer is adding additional value into this quadrant of the city with a twenty-one-million-dollar investment as a catalyst for change. The new investment in the South Main corridor will be completed in the fall of 2023.
First Midwest Group recently acquired the William Brown Lofts, 226 S. Main St., from William Charles and has invested $1.2 million in upgrades.
The first newly constructed multistory residential building in downtown Rockford in decades, is located at 301 South Main which was the former Hanley Furniture site, at an estimated cost of $7.2 million dollars developed by Urban Equity Properties. The five-story project is moving toward completion. The building will feature an accessible, marble-floored lobby, and a planned 3,200-square-feet of retail space on the first floor. The facility will have thirty-one-bedroom apartments and three two-bedroom apartments. The new urban tenants will have access to a rooftop deck and a fitness center. The rent is projected to range from $1,195 on the ground floor to approximately $1,600 a month for the two-bedroom units on the fourth floor.
South Main, which is also, the Illinois Route 2, was, and is, Rockford’s main north-south arterial and its location along the west side of the Rock River spurred the City’s first development and growth. The area between South Main Street, the railroad yards along Kent Creek, and the Rock River was historically the transportation hub of the Rockford region. Rockford’s first passenger rail stations and freight yards serving the region and beyond were first located here given its proximity to Downtown Rockford and access to the Rock River for transferring freight. As a result, a number of industries developed at this location including the City’s many textile manufacturer’s which included the Barber-Colman Company.
Train Experience Gone are the days of arduous car trips or relying on other forms of transportation. The new Metra rail service will offer an express train experience, allowing commuters to travel between Rockford and Chicago in approximately 95 minutes. The train will reach top speeds of 79 mph on straight tracks outside heavily populated areas, ensuring a swift and comfortable ride. Moreover, the train will operate nonstop from Elgin to Chicago Union Station on Canal Street, eliminating unnecessary delays and making the journey more efficient than ever.
For those eager to embrace this commuter’s dream, Metra has thoughtfully designed a roundtrip train schedule between Chicago and Rockford. Commuters can expect two trains daily, one in the morning and one in the evening, seven days a week. This flexibility ensures that everyone can take advantage of this new service, whether it’s for work or leisure.
ys of arduous car trips or relying on other forms of transportation. The new Metra rail service will offer an express train experience, allowing commuters to travel between Rockford and Chicago in approximately 95 minutes. The train will reach top speeds of 79 mph on straight tracks outside heavily populated areas, ensuring a swift and comfortable ride. Moreover, the train will operate nonstop from Elgin to Chicago Union Station on Canal Street, eliminating unnecessary delays and making the journey more efficient than ever.
An Affordable Venture Ticket prices have not been finalized yet, but rest assured, Metra CEO and Executive Director Jim Derwinski have confirmed that the train system will work closely with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to determine a reasonable price point. While prices may differ from the standard Metra commuter lines in the six counties around Chicago, the aim is to keep it affordable and accessible to all.
A Boost to Connectivity To accommodate the revival of the rail service, new train stations will be established in Belvidere and Rockford. The Belvidere station will be located adjacent to the Boone County Museum of History at 314 S. State St, while Rockford’s station is anticipated to be west of Main Street, close to the Embassy Suites by Hilton. These strategically chosen locations aim to enhance connectivity and convenience for travelers.
The journey from Rockford to Chicago comes with some challenges, mainly the need for extensive improvements on the Union Pacific Railroad tracks. These enhancements are necessary to ensure passenger safety and a smooth ride. Upgrades to the tracks, improvements to road and river crossings, new signalization, and the construction of a “flyover” junction in Elgin to connect Union Pacific to Metra tracks are all part of the plan.
The Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan Thanks to the collaborative efforts of State Sen. Steve Stadelman, Governor Pritzker, and the General Assembly, a generous $275 million has been secured from the Rebuild Illinois capital plan. This significant investment will go towards revamping the privately owned railroad tracks, building new train stations, and initiating the new service.
with some challenges, mainly the need for extensive improvements on the Union Pacific Railroad tracks. These enhancements are necessary to ensure passenger safety and a smooth ride. Upgrades to the tracks, improvements to road and river crossings, new signalization, and the construction of a “flyover” junction in Elgin to connect Union Pacific to Metra tracks are all part of the plan.
The announcement of the Metra rail service between Rockford and Chicago is a momentous occasion for the state of Illinois. It opens up a world of opportunities for travelers, providing a faster, more reliable, and eco-friendly mode of transportation. As we eagerly await the completion of the project by late 2027, the revival of this historic rail service is set to transform the way residents of Rockford connect with the bustling city of Chicago. The train of progress is about to embark on a journey that will reunite two cities and create endless possibilities for commuters and tourists alike.
