The corner of Harlem Avenue and College Drive could soon look very different. A plan to bring a Culver’s restaurant to the site of the former CIBC Banking Center at 11850 S. Harlem Ave. is now moving through the city’s approval process.
The proposal, presented to the City Council on Oct. 7, calls for tearing down the old bank building and drive-thru to make way for a 4,100-square-foot Culver’s. The plan includes a double drive-thru, 63 parking spots, and a small outdoor patio.
Franchisee Matt Herman, who grew up in Palos Heights and went to Palos East and Palos South, said he’s excited to open a Culver’s in his hometown. Herman’s been with the company for 29 years and owns restaurants in Orland Park and Homer Glen.
“I’m really just looking forward to serving the community, partnering with local schools and organizations, and providing employment opportunities,” Herman told aldermen.
Civil engineer Ryan Swanson of Art Design Resources went over the site layout and design details. The restaurant will have Culver’s modern architecture with its signature blue branding, neutral stone finishes, and decorative lighting. It’s a newer look but still instantly recognizable as Culver’s. Plans also show new landscaping and a screened trash enclosure behind the building. A bike rack will go on the north side, with space for another if needed by Lake Katherine trail users.
To help traffic move safely, the driveway closest to Route 83 will be closed for good. The main entrance on Harlem will stay but get some updates to make it easier for drivers to get in and out. Cars will still be able to cut through to the neighboring shopping center and exit on Route 83.
The new restaurant would take up the south end of the property. The grassy stretch to the north isn’t part of this project and will stay open for now. Nothing’s planned for it yet, but it could be developed later.
Council members were generally supportive but asked a few practical questions about the layout and operations.
Ald. Jeffrey Key asked if outdoor seating was included — it is.
Ald. Dan Brennan asked if the size was typical. Herman said it’s slightly smaller than his other locations but still has full seating and service.
Ald. Michael McGrogan asked about staffing and parking. Herman said the restaurant will hire about 50 to 60 employees, with 10 to 15 per shift, and that workers will park in the back to leave closer spaces for customers.
Ald. Heather Begley asked about bike parking. Swanson said one rack is already included, and another could be added if needed.
“I’d just like to say thank you for choosing our town to open your business,” said Ald. Jack Clifford, joking that he’s glad he won’t have to drive to Crestwood for a butterburger anymore.
The proposal now goes to the Planning and Zoning Commission for review and a public hearing before returning to the City Council for a final vote.
According to Google that bank is still open
That would be a great addition for the city. The council hopefully mess this up.
Ahhh good Ol Palos Heights! Good Senior Food for the Greatest Senior Comunity!
Hopefully they can partner with city and IDOT to build a tunnel to the senior living across Harlem for steady business year round 😆