Hobby Lobby Could Anchor Proposed Mokena Development

An 8.57-acre shopping complex anchored by a 55,000-square-foot Hobby Lobby could someday sit on the southeast corner of Owens Road and Lincoln Highway.

But there's a long way to go before Plank Trail Commons becomes a reality.

On Monday, got an early look at a concept plan for the proposed development. This is an early step in a process designed to keep the developers and the village on the same page every step of the way.

"We got (the plan) in a few short weeks ago," said Alan Zordan, director of economic and community development for the village.

The plans include two restaurant sites and 94,000 square feet of retail space.

A dollar figure was not available this early in the plan. The developers said they would seek incentives from the village.

The center of the plans is Hobby Lobby, a large craft and hobby store and the only store so far to publically commit to the project.

"They're a competitor for Michael's and Home Depot," board member Don Labriola said.

There is .

Developer Steve Panko said rental agreements with clothing stores are in the works for a 25,000-square-foot space and a 7,500-square-foot one. He did not name the stores, as the deals have not been finalized.

Panko said the economy has made renting storefronts more difficult, but not impossible.

"The new rents that are coming in are not like the old ones," he said.