Regal Cinemas, Rock Run Crossings Groundbreaking Held

JOLIET, IL - On Friday afternoon, several Joliet politicians and dozens of people affiliated with Cullinan Properties gathered along a frontage road near Interstate 55 to mark the start of construction for the long-awaited Rock Run Crossings mega development. The first anchor tenant that has been revealed is the 16-screen Regal Cinemas movie theater.

Regal, a press release notes, "is part of the Cineworld Group, the second largest motion picture exhibitor in the world."

"We are thrilled to be a part of this exciting new development at Rock Run Crossings and to bring the latest immersive theater technology to Joliet," remarked Jerry Grewe, vice president of real estate at Regal, in a press release.

Cullinan Properties founder and chairwoman Diane Cullinan Oberhelman attended Friday's special event in Joliet. She told Joliet Patch it is her understanding that the Regal theaters are aiming to open in two years, 2021.

She also said the marketing plan calls for the unveiling of several additional retail outlets and a couple of hotels over the next several months. Rock Run Crossings is a 265-acre development near Interstates 55 and 80, not far from Shorewood.

This year, much of the project focus will involve excavation, making the property conducive to future retail, medical offices, restaurants entertainment and hotel/lodging.

Joliet Mayor Bob O'Dekirk spoke at Friday's groundbreaking event which was also attended by City Economic Development Director Steve Jones, Interim City Manager Marty Shanahan and most of the City Council: Pat Mudron, Jan Quillman, Terry Morris, Bettye Gavin, Mike Turk, Don "Duck" Dickinson and John Gerl.

Speaking about Rock Run Crossings, Mayor O'Dekirk commented, "The quality of what's coming is something that's different for Joliet."