Chipotle Mexican Grill is hoping to be one of two restaurants coming to a new 7-acre site development along Route 47 in Huntley.
The project is currently in the conceptual review phase, where trustees were not required to vote or express support for the project, according to the Daily Herald. To be approved, the plan will have to go through the village’s plan commission and then back to the village board for final approval. Developers must also obtain a special permit to allow for the two drive-thrus. The site was acquired by developers Core Acquisitions in June 2022, and likely won’t be finished until next year.
The company initially proposed a stand-alone retailer and a Valvoline Instant Oil Change, but village feedback led to adjustments. While no companies have signed leases for the development, the village approved plans for two buildings — one with multiple tenants and a stand-alone restaurant with a drive-through. Chipotle proposes to open a stand-alone site, while the other building will potentially be a Noodles & Company and urgent care.
“It is not guaranteed at this point,” Adam Bell, vice president of development for Core, tells the Daily Herald. “But we are very confident. Everyone’s very excited about this proposal, but we still have some work to do.”
If approved and Chipotle signs a lease, the company will construct a new Chipotlane concept, which favors mobile and drive-thru orders. Chipotle created the drive-through concept in 2018 and has opened over 500 locations nationwide. Huntley trustees are working on a plan to allow for an expanded parking lot and provide more outdoor dining space.
