New Stores, Improvements Proposed for Rivertree Shopping Center

Two new stores are coming to Vernon Hills.

Rivertree Shopping Center storefronts took a step closer to getting facelifts Tuesday, when new stores requested permission to make façade improvements before opening in Vernon Hills.

Ross Dress for Less and Destination XL both plan to move into empty storefronts in the shopping center at 701 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Ross Dress for Less plans to move into the Office Depot site, located between Eloise Chicago and the former Old Country Buffet. Office Depot is moving to the vacant storefront near Old Navy, officials said.

Architectural drawings show an increased height on front of the store, which would have brick columns and edges.

Not all officials were familiar with Ross, a relative newcomer to the suburbs. 

“What is Ross Dress for Less?” wondered Trustee Cindy Hebda.

“It’s wonderful,” replied Trustee Jeanne Schwartz, drawing laughter from her colleagues.

The store carries discounted brand-name apparel for men, women and children, as well as shoes and home décor items. It is expected to open in Vernon Hills this fall, a representative told the board.

Meanwhile, Destination XL, a big and tall men’s apparel store, plans to open in a portion of Rivertree that was previously occupied by Blockbuster and Verizon. The store is requesting permission to make exterior improvements including an architectural casing around its doorway and changes to the shape of its canopy on the south side of the building, facing Rivertree Drive.

Destination XL, also referred to as DXL, is owned by the same company that operates Casual Male XL. Casual Male stores are closing as their leases expire to make way for DXL shops, a representative told village officials this week.

Both Rivertree Shopping Center proposals were reviewed by trustees during their Committee of the Whole meeting. They directed village staff to prepare ordinances including the proposed changes. Those ordinances will be voted on by the Village Board at a later date.