Are you ready for some family fun? One area developer wants to bring you a big place to have fun.
During the most recent Sterling City Council meeting, Colby Snyder of JCB Investments represented a group who would like to redevelop the 24-year vacant National Manufacturing Building into the largest family fun center in Northern Illinois called Barrel and Boards. Snyder spoke of a brewery, winery several bistro’s.
For the game space, there are plans for a bocce ball and pickle ball courts, virtual reality video games and an electric go-kart track.
Snyder said if they received city approval, they could begin work immediately. If all goes as planned, they could have a soft opening in the fall of 2026. The center would be open year-round.
It is estimated the city could receive about $200,000 in tax revenue. Many on the council expressed their excitement and agreement for the project.
