Illini Precast, a company that specializes in pre-stressed concrete for parking towers, bridges, and big box structures, has purchased the old concrete plant located on Route 53 across from Lewis University. They’ve also pledged to help in the beautification efforts on that same road.

The village has been working with Lewis University for the past year on plans to beautify the segment of Route 53 from Renwick Road to Airport Road. This includes things like burying overhead power lines, adding landscaping, and screening the surrounding industrial uses. Illini Precast will be chipping in too, donating 280 feet of precast wall for screening by the Lewis entrance as well as providing easements and funding for landscaping. They have also agreed to improve their existing entrance with pavement.

“This is an exciting situation,” said Mayor John Noak. “Not only do we have a new business coming into the area, but they’re immediately improving a property they just acquired and helping us to beautify one of the main entryways into town.”

Over the years, the plant had fallen into disrepair, but Illini Precast has begun cleaning up the site, and making repairs to existing buildings. They will also be adding a few additions of their own, including a 40 foot expansion to the north end of the building and a new batch plant.