Amazon Eyes Orland Park, Illinois for New 225,000 Sq Ft Retail Development: A Deep Dive
Amazon is setting its sights on Orland Park, a southwest suburb of chicago, for a significant new retail development. Announced by Mayor Jim Dodge this past weekend, the proposed 35-acre project promises to revitalize a key commercial corridor and inject substantial economic benefits into the community. But what does this mean for Orland Park residents, potential shoppers, and the broader retail landscape? This article provides a extensive overview of the proposed development, its potential impact, and what to expect in the coming months.
The Project: A New Retail Hub at 159th & LaGrange
The proposed development will occupy the site formerly home to Petey’s II restaurant,located at the bustling intersection of 159th Street and LaGrange Road. Amazon’s plans, detailed in a special use permit application available on the Orland Park website (https://orlandpark.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=7453148&GUID=3DEE293D-D490-4AA9-BE37-C71C8FFDAFE3), outline a 225,000 square-foot, single-story commercial retail building.
Key features of the proposed development include:
* Extensive Parking: 837 parking spaces to accommodate a high volume of shoppers.
* Efficient Logistics: Seven loading docks to facilitate smooth delivery and inventory management.
* diverse Retail Offering: A wide selection of products encompassing groceries,general merchandise,and possibly dining options with prepared food.
* Seamless Online Integration: The facility will serve as a convenient pickup location for online Amazon orders, bridging the gap between online and in-person shopping.
* Enhanced Aesthetics: A comprehensive landscaping plan designed to improve the site’s visual appeal and functionality.
Why Orland Park? A Strategic Location for Amazon
Mayor Dodge emphasized the significance of Amazon’s interest in Orland Park, stating, “When a global retailer of this scale is considering investment in Orland Park, it sends a strong signal about the vitality of our community and the strategic importance of this corridor.” This sentiment highlights several factors contributing to Orland Park’s appeal:
* Prime Location: The intersection of 159th and lagrange is a high-traffic area with excellent visibility and accessibility.
* Strong Demographics: Orland Park boasts a robust and affluent population, making it an attractive market for a major retailer like Amazon. Recent data from the U.S.Census Bureau (December 2023) shows Orland Park’s median household income is substantially higher than the national average.
* Commercial Corridor Revitalization: The development promises to breathe new life into a key commercial area, replacing a vacant restaurant with a dynamic retail hub.
* Pro-Business Habitat: Orland Park has cultivated a reputation as a business-pleasant community, actively seeking opportunities for economic growth.
Economic Impact: A Boon for Orland Park
The potential economic benefits of the amazon development are substantial. Village officials are notably focused on the projected increase in sales tax revenue. This revenue stream is crucial for funding essential municipal services, including:
* Public Safety: Police and fire protection.
* Infrastructure Improvements: Road maintenance, public transportation, and utility upgrades.
* Parks and Recreation: Maintaining and enhancing local parks and recreational facilities.
* Community Programs: Supporting local initiatives and social services.
While specific revenue projections haven’t been released, similar Amazon developments in other communities have demonstrated a significant positive impact on local economies. A 2023 study by the Economic Policy Institute found that large fulfillment centers, while creating jobs, also generate substantial indirect economic activity through increased consumer spending and supplier relationships. (https://www.epi.org/publication/amazon-fulfillment-centers-jobs-and-economic-impacts/)
what’s Next? The Approval Process
The proposal is currently under review by the Orland Park Plan Commission, with a public meeting scheduled for Tuesday at 7








