Revitalizing Morton: A $5 Million Transformation Unlocks New Opportunities

The Village of Morton is embarking on an ambitious project that will breathe new life into a former manufacturing facility, transforming it into a hub of economic activity. With the help of over $600,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, the village plans to repurpose the vacant Marion Manufacturing building, paving the way for a local company to expand its operations and create new jobs.

Unlocking the Potential of a Closed Facility

Repurposing the Marion Manufacturing Building

The Village of Morton has identified a unique opportunity to revitalize a closed manufacturing facility and breathe new life into the local economy. The 42,159-square-foot Marion Manufacturing building, located at 701 Flint Avenue, has been permanently shuttered, leaving a void in the community. However, the village has recognized the potential of this space and has decided to repurpose it into a manufacturing and office facility for Crane Equipment & Service Inc., a company based in Eureka.By leveraging the CDBG grant funds, the village will be able to undertake the necessary renovations to transform the building into a modern, functional workspace. This project is a testament to the village's commitment to fostering economic growth and creating new employment opportunities for the residents of Morton.

Funding the Transformation

The total cost of the project is estimated to exceed $5 million, with the CDBG grant providing $600,000 towards the renovation efforts. Additionally, Chase Bank will contribute $3.2 million, while Crane Equipment & Service Inc. will invest $1,371,535 to support the project.This collaborative approach, involving both public and private funding sources, demonstrates the village's ability to leverage various resources to drive economic development and revitalization. By securing the necessary financial backing, the village can ensure that the project is completed to the highest standards, creating a modern and efficient workspace that will benefit the community.

Streamlining the Process

To expedite the project, the Village of Morton plans to submit a request to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for the release of the CDBG funds by the end of October. This proactive approach will allow the village to move forward with the renovation process as soon as possible, minimizing delays and ensuring a timely completion.The village's goal is to have the renovations completed by the Fall of 2026, a timeline that reflects the urgency and importance of this project. By working efficiently and collaboratively, the village aims to transform the former manufacturing facility into a thriving hub of economic activity, creating new opportunities for businesses and residents alike.

Embracing the Future

The repurposing of the Marion Manufacturing building represents a significant step forward for the Village of Morton. By leveraging CDBG funds and securing additional private investment, the village is demonstrating its commitment to fostering economic growth and creating a more vibrant, prosperous community.This project not only addresses the immediate need to revitalize a vacant facility but also lays the groundwork for long-term sustainable development. By attracting a company like Crane Equipment & Service Inc. to the area, the village is positioning itself as a hub for manufacturing and innovation, attracting new businesses and talent to the region.As the project progresses, the residents of Morton can look forward to the creation of new job opportunities, the revitalization of a once-dormant industrial site, and the overall strengthening of the local economy. This transformative initiative is a testament to the village's vision and its dedication to creating a brighter future for its community.