Developer plans tavern, cigar bar for vacant Route 31 site in McHenry

A developer has big plans for a property it owns off Route 31 and Charles J. Miller Road.

The city of McHenry’s Planning and Zoning Commission will meet Wednesday to consider a request from A.J. Shah LLC, which seeks to develop the site at 522 S. Route 31 into a tavern, according to city documents.

The property at the northeast corner of Route 31 and Charles J. Miller/Bull Valley roads is a little less than an acre and has a 3,000-square-foot vacant building on it.

A McDonald’s formerly operated at the location, but it moved several years ago, and the site has been vacant since, according to city documents.

The property also is part of a strip center that houses a BP gas station and Sam’s Liquor and Wine store.

The developer also owns the liquor store, according to county records.

A.J. Shah wants to open an upscale whiskey and cigar bar on the vacant lot, according to city documents. The build-out process would include the construction of two small additions – an outdoor patio and a fire feature on the south side of the property, according to city documents.

Food is not allowed to be prepared at the site because of restrictions placed by the property seller, but the developer plans to offer food services from food trucks and can have food brought in, according to city documents.

“The subject property is very difficult to improve with a viable land use,” economic development director Doug Martin said in a memo to the board. “In addition to the site, the entire shopping center has struggled since the access points on Charles Miller Road and Route 31 have been compromised due to roadway improvements.”

City staff recommended approval for the project as long as the developer complies with McHenry County Department of Health regulations and meets fencing and screening requirements, according to city documents.

“The subject property has great visibility, the building is in decent condition, and the applicant has a great deal of experience operating successful businesses, particularly involving alcohol,” Martin said. “Additionally, redevelopment of the property could assist in further rejuvenation of the center.”

Martin said there is no cigar bar in the area, which would make for a unique addition to the city.

The owner plans to offer entertainment, as well.

The site is not near residential development, and a public hearing will be held on the matter in the future.

The board will meet at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the McHenry Municipal Center, 333 S. Green St.