Block 59 Naperville Redevelopment: New Dining and Entertainment District Coming to Route 59

A Major Transformation Is Underway Along Naperville’s Route 59 Corridor

A significant redevelopment project is reshaping one of Naperville’s busiest commercial intersections as Block 59 transforms the former Westridge Court shopping center into a modern dining and entertainment destination.

Located near Route 59 and Aurora Avenue, the project is designed to reposition the area as more than a traditional retail center. Instead, the vision focuses on creating a walkable, experience-driven district where restaurants, public gathering spaces, and updated design encourage visitors to spend more time in the area.

As suburban communities continue evolving, projects like Block 59 reflect how retail corridors are shifting toward lifestyle-focused destinations rather than purely shopping-based centers.

Why This Redevelopment Matters for the Western Suburbs

Across many suburban markets, older big-box shopping centers have been losing momentum as consumer preferences move toward dining, entertainment, and social experiences.

Block 59 responds to that shift by introducing a mix of restaurants, outdoor gathering areas, and pedestrian-friendly design intended to create a more engaging environment. Instead of quick shopping trips, the goal is to establish a place where people meet, dine, and spend time.

Because of its location along the Route 59 corridor near Aurora, the development is expected to draw visitors from multiple surrounding communities, not just nearby neighborhoods.

What the New Block 59 Experience Is Designed to Offer

The redevelopment focuses on creating a destination atmosphere rather than a traditional strip-center layout.

Plans highlight an open-air central plaza surrounded by restaurants with outdoor patios, designed to host events and community gatherings throughout the year. Updated landscaping, improved circulation, and modern storefront design aim to create a more cohesive and inviting environment.

The long-term vision includes seasonal programming such as live events, community activities, and flexible outdoor space that can adapt throughout the year, reinforcing the area as a social hub rather than a single-purpose retail stop.

Key Details About the Block 59 Redevelopment

Here’s what has been shared so far about the project:

• Location: Route 59 and Aurora Avenue in Naperville

• Investment: Approximately $53 million redevelopment

• Scope: Redevelopment of the former Westridge Court shopping center

• New construction: Roughly 90,000+ square feet of updated space

• Concept: Dining and entertainment-focused district

• Design features: Central plaza, pedestrian-friendly layout, updated landscaping

• Tenant mix: Multiple restaurant concepts and national brands

• Timeline: Phased openings continuing through 2026

The redevelopment also introduces several well-known restaurant operators, positioning the corridor as an emerging dining destination within Naperville’s broader retail landscape.

What This Could Mean for Nearby Communities

Large-scale dining and entertainment districts often increase activity across surrounding retail corridors by encouraging longer visits and repeat traffic.

Block 59 is designed to complement existing anchors in the area while modernizing an established commercial zone. As suburban municipalities continue investing in experience-focused destinations, projects like this can strengthen the appeal of nearby neighborhoods by adding convenient lifestyle amenities close to where residents live and work.

For many buyers today, access to dining, recreation, and gathering spaces has become an important part of how they evaluate long-term neighborhood value.

What’s Next for Block 59

The redevelopment is progressing in phases, with demolition of underutilized structures already completed and new restaurant openings continuing as construction advances.

The district is expected to reach full completion around 2026, with additional tenants and programming likely to be announced as the project evolves.

As more spaces open, Block 59 is positioned to become one of the more prominent dining and entertainment destinations along Naperville’s Route 59 corridor.

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