More stores confirmed at Mattoon sports, shopping complex

MATTOON, Ill. (WCIA) — A list of businesses is starting to form as they sign leases for the Emerald Acres Sports Connection in Mattoon .

The facility is still under construction, but so far, a Chic-Fil-A, Chipotle and Panda Express are confirmed as restaurants that will be at the complex. Confirmed retail stores are Five Below, Ulta and Kohl’s.

Housing and hospitality options will include a Fairfield Inn hotel, three apartment complexes and two potential housing divisions.

That is all in addition to the sports part of the project: indoor and outdoor areas for basketball, volleyball and baseball.

“Residents’ quality of life is going to be improved. I mean, this is a place where members of the community can come visit. They can shop there. There’s going to be walking trails in the area,” said Alexander Benishek, the Community Development and Planning Director of Mattoon. “It’s another place where folks can get out, connect with nature.  And, you know, it’s something that puts us on the map.”

The restaurants and stores are expected to open their doors at the end of the year.

Information about the project, including overhead maps, can be found by clicking here .

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