ROCKFORD, IL — Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara and Joshua Jeffers of J. Jeffers & Co. on Feb. 17 announced the resumption of the massive estimated $430 million historic redevelopment project at the former Barber-Colman industrial campus where work stalled more than a year ago.
Work to transform the sprawling site in southwest Rockford into a neighborhood of apartments, homes and businesses along the Rock River called Colman Yards came to a halt in December 2024. The work stoppage came amid union strife and a dispute with the former general contractor who was ultimately fired.
“Colman Yards represents the best of what’s possible when public and private partners come together to invest in people, place, and potential,” Mayor Tom McNamara said in a news release. “This is more than bricks and mortar, it’s about jobs, housing and long-term opportunity for our city and its residents.”…