A former train depot located in Lake Zurich is on the cusp of a transformation, as its owners are seeking community input to help shape its future. The historic building, located at 70 E. Main St., was purchased in 2018 by Chris Charnas and Mike Fitzgerald, local entrepreneurs and business owners who see great potential in the structure.
The former train depot, which was built in the 1880s, was once a bustling hub of activity. It was decommissioned in the 1970s and has since been used for a variety of purposes, including as office space and as a showroom for a boat dealership. Now, its owners are hoping to breathe new life into the building while preserving its historic charm.
Charnas and Fitzgerald have been soliciting ideas from the community and envisioning potential uses for the building. The duo hopes to turn the depot into a social hub that could incorporate a range of uses, such as a restaurant, bar, or event space. They are also considering other creative ideas, such as a boutique hotel or a shared workspace.
The owners' vision for the depot is centered on community involvement. "We're not going to dictate what it becomes," said Charnas. "We want the community to have input." They are also keen on preserving the building's history and have been in contact with the Lake Zurich Historical Society to ensure any changes are in keeping with the depot's past.
Charnas and Fitzgerald have a track record of successful local businesses. Charnas has owned and operated the well-known Links Capital Advisors, a successful golf course brokerage, for more than a decade. Fitzgerald, meanwhile, has owned and run the popular Beelow’s Steakhouse in Lake Zurich for more than 20 years.
While the future of the depot is not yet fully decided, it is clear that its owners are dedicated to revitalizing the space in a way that respects its history and serves the Lake Zurich community. With their entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community involvement, there is great anticipation for what the depot will become.