Orland Park, IL – A major commercial redevelopment proposal involving Amazon is set for public review Wednesday as village officials consider plans to transform a long-vacant property at 159th Street and LaGrange Road into a large-scale retail site.
According to the Village of Orland Park’s Planning Commission agenda, the proposal outlines redevelopment of approximately 35 acres at the former Pepe’s restaurant location. The concept plan includes a one-story commercial building totaling roughly 229,000 square feet, primarily designed for retail use, along with a limited warehouse component to support on-site operations.
Village officials say interest from Amazon reflects Orland Park’s strong market position and long-term growth outlook. Mayor Jim Dodge said the proposal signals confidence in the village’s infrastructure and the strategic importance of the 159th Street corridor.
“This is a prime location, and we are encouraged to see it considered for full commercial redevelopment,” Dodge said. “Projects like this have the potential to generate substantial sales tax revenue while strengthening one of our most important corridors.”
Plans indicate the development would function as a large-format retail location offering a wide range of products, potentially including groceries, general merchandise, and prepared food options. The limited warehouse space would support on-site operations rather than serve as a large-scale distribution center.
Officials emphasized that the project remains subject to public review and approval and aligns with long-standing goals to keep the intersection and surrounding area fully commercial. Traffic flow and circulation studies have been conducted, with plans for separate access points for customers and delivery vehicles to improve safety and reduce congestion.
As part of broader corridor planning, the village continues to evaluate extending Ravinia Avenue south to 161st Street, a move officials say could improve circulation and connectivity to LaGrange Road. Sales tax revenue from the proposed development is projected to offset infrastructure costs associated with that expansion.
The Planning Commission’s review is part of the village’s standard approval process. Any future consideration by the Village Board would take place at a publicly noticed meeting.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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