It’s hard to believe just one stoplight used to separate DeKalb and Sycamore.

The two cities are flush with new business, with the newest addition to be a shopping center.

The center, to be located at the corner of Route 64 and Peace Road, will house a number of retail outlets. This fall the first shovel will hit the dirt.

When the motions of big development begin rolling, many rural communities balk at the prospect of growth. There is concern about the Mom ‘n’ Pop businesses getting forced out, and a general feeling the rural charm may have to give way to increased revenue.

Overall, that common reaction is absent following news of the new shopping venue.

“Commercial and industrial development is part of the growing process, and it’s accepted and welcome with the residents because of the tax benefits from property tax and sales tax revenue,” Sycamore Mayor Ken Mundy said.

Retail businesses are extremely profitable for the cities, and according to Sycamore City Manager Bill Nicklas, 43 percent of city operations are funded by sales tax revenues,

“It broadens the tax base, builds up commercial size of value of the town and residential property which is growing in value,” Nicklas said. “Also, commercial property does not demand the same as public services.”

Jon Carnahan, NIU chemistry and biochemistry associate professor, is a long-time resident of both Sycamore and DeKalb, living 12 years in each of the cities. He witnessed the growth of the cities. Although his feelings on new development are decidedly mixed, his practical side says it’s necessary.

“It’s a two-sided issue,” Carnahan said. “It’s nice to have stores nearby so we don’t have to travel to Batavia or Rockford, but the area is so congested. And personally, I feel we have enough shopping centers. He still remembers when the two cities shared a stop light.

“The area has really changed over the years,” Carnahan said.

“Location, location, location,” realtors like to say. The shopping center doors will face one of the busiest intersections in the area and will certainly have location.

Nicklas agrees.

“Visibility is real important, knowing where it is and getting there fast, and this location is great for that,” Nicklas said.