Allstate Seeks Re-Annexation of Former Headquarters Site in South Barrington Amid Redevelopment Plans (South Barrington, IL) – In a rare reversal, Allstate Corp. is seeking to annex its former headquarters property back into the Village of South Barrington, just over a year after the land was officially disconnected from the suburb.
Village officials say the move is tied to renewed redevelopment efforts for the roughly 67-acre site at the southeast corner of Higgins and Bartlett roads. The property, vacant since Allstate consolidated operations in Northbrook in 2012, could soon see new life as a light-industrial complex.
“This is truly a rare occurrence,” said village attorney James Vasselli. “We’ve never seen a property owner go from excising land from a municipality to seeking annexation again. It’s a unicorn event.”
The annexation request, filed April 7, follows the collapse of a previous redevelopment proposal from Texas-based Hillwood Development Co. In its place, Rosemont-based Opus has entered into a contract to acquire the property and is proposing a scaled-down project consisting of three buildings—two fewer than previously planned.
“One door closes, another door opens,” Vasselli said. “This property was always going to be developed. The question was whether the development would take place with or without the Village’s input.”
The site sits just north of the Jane Addams Memorial Tollway and near the Arboretum of South Barrington shopping center, making it a prime location for commercial redevelopment.
Village officials met with Opus representatives in January to discuss plans, with Mayor Paula McCombie highlighting the advantages of annexation. She said the proposal reflects growing interest from businesses in locating within South Barrington.
“There is definitely renewed interest in South Barrington because of what we have been able to accomplish in recent months,” McCombie said in a communication to residents. “There is a desire to be a part of the exciting growth and development of our community. The future is bright for our community.”
If approved, the annexation would allow South Barrington to guide the project through its planning and zoning process while also generating new property tax revenue. Officials say the added revenue could help ease the tax burden on residents.
“We have a seat at the table,” McCombie said. “We look forward to working with our corporate partners in the development of this property.”
Negotiations over the project are ongoing. The next step will be a formal presentation to the village’s Plan Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals.
Allstate Seeks Re-Annexation of Former Headquarters Site in South Barrington Amid Redevelopment Plans
