SYCAMORE - Sycamore’s North Grove Crossings subdivision could soon have a new developer, part of a plan by city officials to ensure housing is built on the remainder of the lots left vacant by a previous developer.

According to city documents, the Sycamore City Council will consider the resolution during its regular meeting set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 6 at the City Center.

The proposed new contractor is Lakewood-based Worthington Homes, which intends to purchase eight lots in the subdivision. According to meeting documents, city staff said the lots were neglected “due to the failure of the original developer to fulfill certain obligations” related to pubic improvements in North Grove Crossings, and therefore half the subdivision remains undeveloped.

The public improvements which Worthington Homes will be obligated to complete under the contract, if approved, include fees associated with road improvements on the Luther Lowell and Plank Road intersection which was completed in 2003. The contracted obligations will also include Worthington Homes paying for 50% of the estimated costs to improve the North Grove, Lingren Road and Plank Road intersection. The developer would also need to pay for a proposed watermain extension along the west side of Plank Road from North Grove Road south to the north line of the property, and traffic signals at Plank Road, Lither Lowell Lane and North Grove, Lingren Road and Plank Road.

Total estimated public improvement costs associated with the proposal total $5,186 per unit, according to city documents, which Worthington would have to pay to the City of Sycamore. The funds would then be deposited into the city’s Public Improvement Escrow Fund for when the projects are actually planned out.

As part of the proposed agreement, Worthington would also be allowed to install two signs at the builder’s expense advertising the lots, though only one sign will be allowed on Plank Road.

The developer would also agree to install public sidewalks on the properties on a lot-by-lot basis whenever construction is set to occur on the vacant lots. The City of Sycamore would maintain and be responsible for public water and sewer improvements in the North Grove Crossings subdivision, documents state, however Worthington would be responsible for any water and sewer lines which connect the public mains to the lots.

City staff are recommending the council approve the proposal, which would be the next step in bringing development to the unfinished subdivision.