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📸 Credit: Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley and Paul Morgan.
A plan to preserve one of downtown St. Charles’ historic homes took a major step forward Monday night, as officials advanced a city-backed agreement aimed at restoring the Judge Barry House and serving nearby public parking needs.
City-funded preservation deal: The proposal centers on a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) agreement that would help fund the purchase and restoration of the Barry House at 217 Cedar Avenue, bringing the long-vacant property back into use.
Historic restoration required: Under the deal, the private developer (Geneva Heights, LLC) would be restore the home to local historic standards, including restoring the building’s original stone façade. Work would be expected to be completed by May 2027.
New angled parking planned: The city would construct 10 to 13 angled public parking spaces along Third Avenue near the church, with limited Sunday-morning use reserved for church services.
Church gains flexibility: In exchange, the church would dedicate land needed for the parking and gain the ability to sell its north parking lot while still meeting city parking requirements.
If approved by the City Council, the agreement would provide a viable plan for the rehabilitation of the Barry House and as well as a long-term parking arrangement downtown. Final design details for the new parking is expected to come back for council review in the coming weeks.
Watch the full Planning and Development Committee meeting recording or learn more on page 20 of this committee agenda packet.
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