Eckert’s plans to build Belleville dining pavilion, music venue move ahead
Plans for Eckert’s Inc. to construct an addition at its Belleville Farm will soon come before the Belleville City Council on Monday eveniung.
The City of Belleville’s Planning Commission unanimously approved the recommendation of the expansion on Wednesday, according to Cliff Cross, Director of Economic Development, Planning & Zoning.
The commission’s recommendation was sent to the City Council for action at its meeting.
Architectural blueprints provided by Cross show the 6,600-square-foot addition, which includes an outdoor dining pavilion/music venue, stage and a separate restroom building. The plans also show that 10 parking spots will be removed from the existing east parking lot. All other existing parking lots will remain.
The new addition would be built between the existing restaurant and the Country Store.
There are areas marked on the blueprints indicating some renovation work on the existing Cider Shed and the seasonal food stand area at the Country Store. It is not clear on the plans what that work will entail.
In addition, Cross said it was made clear during the meeting that Eckert’s Inc. was not asking for tax incentives to help fund the project.
Eckert’s Inc. President Chris Eckert could not immediately be reached for comment.
In 2009, Eckert’s Inc. sought $975,000 in economic incentives from the city for a $5.5 million expansion that included the Country Store and restaurant.
Approval for the tax increment financing was completed in early 2010.
The renovated and expanded Eckert’s Country Store opened in July 2010. Eckert’s Belleville farm, store and restaurant is the hub of the longtime family-owned business.
Eckert’s Belleville Farm is located at 951 S. Green Mount Road. For additional information about this and other Eckert’s locations, call 800-745-0513 or visit eckerts.com.
