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Proposed redevelopment of Lincoln
College Campus aims to restore legacy and create a vibrant community
hub
[May 07, 2026]
Lincoln, IL — A new
redevelopment proposal for the former Lincoln College campus
outlines a long-term vision to restore life, energy, and economic
vitality to one of the community’s most significant historic
properties.
The plan focuses on preserving the beauty, charm, and historical
significance of the campus while thoughtfully reimagining its
future. Rather than replacing what has existed for generations, the
goal is to build upon it -- ensuring the campus continues to serve
the community in a meaningful and relevant way for decades to come.
This will be a multi-phase, multi-year investment representing
millions of dollars committed to revitalizing the property. As each
phase progresses, the campus will gradually transform into a
vibrant, mixed-use destination serving residents, families,
visitors, and local businesses, while creating opportunities for
entrepreneurship and small business growth. The project is not a
Section 8 development and is not planned as a publicly subsidized
housing initiative.
The vision includes a blend of small businesses, approximately
two-hundred apartments, and year-round recreational amenities such
as baseball and other sports facilities, indoor swimming, fitness
spaces, daycare services, and community gathering areas.
“This is about restoring momentum. The campus was once a major
contributor to the local economy and community identity. We believe
it can be again.”
Housing within the development will be market-rate and geared toward
working families, with affordability driven by operational
efficiency rather than government subsidy. One immediate advantage
is the campus’ existing behind-the-meter solar farm, which
significantly reduces utility costs, with those savings intended to
be passed directly on to residents.
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The development
team is actively exploring partnerships with respected regional
and national nonprofit organizations whose missions align with
creating opportunity, stability, and long-term community
benefit. These efforts include attracting sports tourism,
entertainment, and new businesses to help drive economic
activity in the Lincoln community.
At its core, the project is about
creating a safe, welcoming environment where families feel
comfortable, businesses can grow, and the community can gather
year-round. It is designed to foster positive engagement, encourage
entrepreneurship, and support healthy, active lifestyles for all
ages.
Zoning and Next Steps
As part of this process, the team is requesting a rezoning of the
main campus parcels. The property has remained under consistent
ownership for more than 160 years, and its current zoning no longer
reflects how communities operate today.
To move forward with meaningful
revitalization, the campus must be updated to allow a mix of both
commercial and residential uses within the same area. This type of
mixed-use zoning is standard in modern developments and is essential
to creating a sustainable, active environment.
“This is not a unique request - it is a necessary step to bring the
campus into alignment with current zoning practices and to enable a
project that can truly succeed long term.”
If approved, the rezoning will allow the project to move into its
next phase, setting the foundation for a thoughtful, phased
redevelopment that honors the past while building toward the future.
Chase Huston
Local Investor & Developer
Project Lead, Lincoln College Redevelopment
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