BEVERLY — A medical facility specifically catering to the needs of seniors will replace the long-vacant Borders bookstore in Beverly.
Downers Grove-based Advocate Health Care signed a 10-year lease late last month for the former retail building at 2210 W. 95th St., according to Ald. Matt O'Shea (19th).
"We've got a need. Our senior citizen population is going to skyrocket here in our community," O'Shea said Tuesday afternoon.
Advocate filed demolition and building permits this week. Once approved, a $3.5 million construction phase will begin that will include improvements that will transform both the exterior and interior of the building, O'Shea said.
Initially, Advocate will only occupy the first floor of the facility with its concept of a one-stop shop for seniors. This will include geriatric doctors along with a specialty pharmacy and other uses designed for an aging clientele.
O'Shea said the facility is slated to open in July, and he believes Advocate will eventually expand to the second floor of the former bookstore.
O'Shea also said that the medical facility addresses a long-held concern among some Beverly residents, as it will employ 40 skilled workers. O'Shea said several constituents have told him that his Far Southwest Side ward is too often considered a bedroom community — forcing many residents to look for work elsewhere.
The new tenant stands to be a boon for the surrounding retail area too. O'Shea expects workers from the facility to visit neighboring stores and restaurants such as Fontano's Subs and Top Notch Beefburgers. O'Shea believes that the redevelopment of The Plaza over the border in Evergreen Park in will further help in this regard.
Sam Nimer owns Tres Chic Boutique at 2235 W. 95th St. in Beverly. His store sells dresses for weddings, proms and other special occasions near the former bookstore that's been closed since 2011.
"Of course, we'd like to get more action in this area," Nimer said. "Somebody is certainly better than having it empty."
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