Chicago Construction News staff writer
Construction has begun on Opus Intermodal at Joliet, a 314,684-sq. ft. speculative industrial building on 39 acres at the northeast corner of Patterson Road and West Laraway Road.
The project is located directly across from Union Pacific’s Global IV intermodal terminal, positioning the development near one of the region’s major freight transportation hubs.
Opus is the developer and design-builder for the project, which is being designed by Ware Malcomb. Matthew Stauber and Steve Ostrowski of Colliers are marketing the building for lease.
The facility will be a 36-foot-clear, rear-load industrial building with 31 dock doors and two drive-in doors. Plans also call for 209 trailer stalls and parking for 214 cars.
The building will feature clerestory windows and can accommodate up to two tenants.
“Opus Intermodal at Joliet is a prime example of developing the right building in the right location as users will benefit from Class A quality and amenities as well as immediate access to the region’s extensive rail, highway and intermodal infrastructure,” said Mike Robinson, vice-president of real estate development with Opus.
“We have continued to see the long-term value of the Joliet market and have been waiting for the right opportunity to return with a development that is well positioned to meet the needs of today’s industrial users,” he said.
Joliet is about 45 minutes south of Chicago and is an established industrial submarket with access to five Class 1 freight railroads, including Union Pacific and BNSF facilities.
The area also has access to a regional airport and major highways including Interstate 80 and Interstate 55. Joliet is part of the Chicago region’s extensive inland port and intermodal network, providing connections for freight moving through the Midwest and across North America.
The project marks Opus’ return to the Joliet market after completing the 1,219,819-square-foot Rock Creek Logistics Center in August 2018.
Rock Creek Logistics Center is a 36-ft.-clear, cross-docked industrial facility.
An official groundbreaking event with project stakeholders is scheduled for tomorrow (Oct. 1). Construction of Opus Intermodal at Joliet is scheduled for completion in June 2027.
