The corner of 65th Street and Archer Avenue will soon look very different.
Bedford Park officials broke ground Nov. 20 on a new Police Training and Municipal Building that will also include a Cracked Egg restaurant on the first floor.
The project replaces the demolished Southern Belle restaurant at one of the village’s main entrances.
The ceremony began at 4 p.m. with photos taken by trustees, staff, police and community members.
Mayor Dave Brady said the project reflects years of discussion and the village’s focus on making the entrance to Bedford Park more welcoming and useful.
“There were a lot of different paths that had to come together before we could stand here today,” Brady said. “This corner is the first impression people get when they come into Bedford Park, and we wanted something that shows who we are as a community.”
Trustee Anthony Kensik said he is glad to see the project officially underway.
“This is exciting, and it is innovative,” Kensik said. “A police training center and a restaurant. That is what we need. And I think residents are really going to love it once it is complete.”
Kensik said the new police training facility will complement the fire department’s center across the street and give both departments dedicated space to train.
Chief Business Officer Joe Ronovsky said the combined building reflects Bedford Park’s priorities.
“As a community focused on growth, safety and connection, the Village of Bedford Park is proud to open this new municipal training center for our police and fire departments,” Ronovsky said. “This facility will serve as an educational hub for first responders both here and in neighboring communities, strengthening public safety collaboration across our region. Having a breakfast spot on the ground floor adds a welcoming touch, giving our residents a local place to gather, share a meal and feel at home. It is another step toward making Bedford Park a community where people are proud to live, work and visit.”
Project Background
The building moved through several stages of planning this year. At the April 17 board meeting, trustees approved routine construction items, including the scope of work recommended by ALPA, the village’s construction manager.
More detailed planning and budgeting followed in the spring. At a May 5 special board meeting, the board approved the budget of $6.5 million for the municipal building project and corner rehab. Trustees also approved a 10-year lease with The Cracked Egg for approximately 4,200 square feet on the first floor.
Early estimates for the facility were lower, but the price increased as the village refined the design, expanded the scope and worked through broader discussions tied to long-term public safety needs.
What Comes Next
Construction will now move forward following the groundbreaking. The building will include police training space and municipal offices, with The Cracked Egg planned for the first floor.
When finished, the new building will mark a fresh start for a corner that has sat empty for years and give Bedford Park a place that serves both residents and first responders.