WEST ROGERS PARK — A Chase bank branch will replace the former J.J. Peppers convenience store at Ridge and Pratt boulevards, officials confirmed.
The one-story building at 6740 N. Ridge Blvd. was gutted recently, and construction crews began converting the structure into the bank, said Ald. Debra Silverstein (50th).
J.J. Peppers, which sold cigarettes, beer and groceries, had attracted seedy clientele, but in the past few years had "been quiet," said Patrick Kenny, the area's CAPS beat facilitator.
"I haven’t heard anything about that location in a little while," he said, adding that a bank should eliminate any unwanted loitering that convenience stores typically attract.
The new bank is expected to open Nov. 13, according to Chase's website.
The renovations are expected to cost $1 million and include a lighted sign on the property, according to documents filed by JPMorgan Chase with the city.