Welcome to Tri-Cities Central, a twice-weekly newsletter highlighting local happenings in Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles and surrounding communities.
Get yours: subscribe here. Refer a friend: share this link.
Batavia officials have advanced a redevelopment deal aimed at bringing a new upscale restaurant to a prominent downtown corner, putting public dollars behind a private investment they say could boost foot traffic and activity along Wilson Street.
Here’s what you should know:
Former Thorabella’s site: The project targets 15 East Wilson Street, where River Street Hospitality plans to convert the vacant space into a higher-end dining destination after a full interior overhaul.
How the funding works: The city will provide up to $150,000 in grant funding — $100,000 reimbursed upfront for permanent building improvements and $50,000 paid over five years, contingent on the restaurant staying open.
Expected financial return: Based on projections shared with officials, the restaurant could generate about $24,000 a year in local sales and liquor tax revenue, in addition to new jobs and increased downtown activity.
Downtown benefits: City officials say the project will support Batavia’s larger downtown plan by reactivating a key corner, drawing more visitors downtown, and creating more community gathering spaces.
During the discussion, at least one official acknowledged the financial risk involved in providing public funding for a restaurant project, questioning how much responsibility the property owner should bear and whether the city’s investment was appropriately balanced.
If the agreement moves forward as planned, the next steps include final permits, interior demolition, and further buildout.
River Street Hospitality is owned by Chad Gravenites, who is also the owner of the popular restaurants GOAT in Batavia and Art House in Aurora.
Learn more in this city memo.
📖 Thanks for reading
Please feel free to reach out to [email protected] with questions or comments.
Not signed up yet? Subscribe here.