Retail recommended for Curtis interchange in Champaign

CHAMPAIGN – The 640 acres of farmland surrounding the Interstate 57-Curtis Road interchange now under construction represents "a rare economic development opportunity for the city of Champaign," according to a draft market assessment prepared by a city consultant.

The consultant, Business Districts Inc. of Evanston, is recommending that much of the property should be developed as a major retail area, with significant planning and oversight by the city to make sure the new southwestern gateway to the city is done tastefully. The interchange is scheduled to open in January.

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