A neighborhood association is going public with its displeasure over Bradley University’s plans for the West Main Street property that used to be home to an Avanti’s Restaurant.
In a letter sent to new Bradley University president James Shadid earlier this month, the Uplands Residential Association asked the institution to divest from the property and keep it zoned for a future business.
“Encouraging business growth in that location would keep our neighborhood safe while benefitting the community and furthering the University’s academic and career development mission,” the letter reads.
Earlier this year, Bradley University provided more details on the plans for the lot at the corner of Main and University streets. The plans include razing the former Avanti’s building and establishing a green space; possible design inclusions cited by Bradley spokespersons include native prairie grasses, shade trees, perennials and a Bradley University sign.
The university purchased the property in January 2023. In an email to faculty and staff, then-president Stephen Standifird said the purchase is an “investment in our campus and community” and first mentioned plans to level the building and create a green space.
In its letter, the Uplands Residential Association claims residents have “not been given an opportunity” to collaborate with the school on plans for the space. The document argues the school could demonstrate a commitment to donors, and residents of the neighborhood who are faculty, staff, students and alumni, by “reversing this new, expensive and unnecessary expansion into the Uplands” and completing “other projects within its current institutional boundaries.”
Representatives of the Uplands Residential Association did not immediately respond to a request for comment from WCBU.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the university said the Uplands Residential Association had been included in the conversation through meetings with the West Bluff Council, a group the university says includes a representative from the Uplands organization.
The statement also calls the Uplands Association’s choice to send their letter to the university and the media at the same time “disappointing.”
“That approach does not reflect the spirit of good faith conversation that we expect and strive to uphold,” the emailed statement said. “Bradley University looks forward to continuing meaningful dialogue with the surrounding community while we build a stronger Peoria together.”
