Jimmy John's, Morris still considering proposed location change

MORRIS – Jimmy John’s is considering a move from its current location at 1541 Creek Road in Morris to a standalone building about a mile east on Bedford Road.

Ryan McGuire spoke Thursday morning to the Morris Development Review Committee on behalf of the sandwich chain about developing at 21,000-square-foot property at 515 Bedford Road.

The preliminary site plan shows a 1,650-square-foot Jimmy John’s at the north end of the lot along Bedford Road, with parking to the south and the entry and exits along both Bedford Road and Waverly Street.

The main concern of the committee was assuring safety for drivers on Bedford Road.

“My first thought is that a left turn onto Bedford would be very problematic,” Committee Chairman Brent Dite said.

The committee mentioned the possibility of a right-turn-only exit onto Bedford Road.

McGuire agreed, and Mayor Richard Kopczick noted the Illinois Department of Transportation would have to approve the addition of an entry and exit on Waverly.

Morris Building and Zoning Officer Bill Cheshareck said with Morris Hospital nearby, the restaurant might draw a considerable amount of pedestrian customers. He mentioned adding a very visible crosswalk if, in fact, Jimmy John’s moved in.

“I’d hate to see somebody get hit,” Cheshareck said.

McGuire said the goal of the meeting was just to get a feel for what is feasible at this property.

Jimmy John’s is hoping to settle on a property choice by Jan. 10.

In other news, Sherwin Williams is one step closer to opening its first location in Morris.

The committee unanimously approved site plans for a 4,000-square-foot store in an empty lot at 1771 N. Division St.

Developer Kevin Vernick returned Thursday to present modified site plans. The committee requested last month that more masonry be incorporated in the design and more details be added to the site's easement plans.

The committee approved the plans pending a review by the city engineering firm.