As longtime paving and concrete professionals serving Bloomingdale and surrounding suburbs, we at Fortis Paving are excited to see the transformation of Stratford Square Mall. The demolition of this once-thriving retail center marks the beginning of a new era, one focused on building vibrant, walkable, and multi-use community spaces.
While we’re not directly involved in this redevelopment, we believe strong infrastructure choices now will impact the longevity and usability of the site for decades to come.
Why Paving and Concrete Choices Matter in Mixed-Use Developments
Modern community spaces like the future Grove at Bloomingdale Commons rely on strategic infrastructure to serve multiple needs — from residential traffic and commercial loading zones to pedestrian walkways and green spaces.
Here’s what we believe should be prioritized:
Durable, Low-Maintenance Pavement: Commercial-grade asphalt for roadways and parking lots ensures longevity and smoother traffic flow.
Accessible Sidewalks and ADA-Compliant Ramps: Proper grading and concrete work make spaces inclusive for all.
Decorative and Functional Hardscapes: Thoughtful use of stamped concrete or pavers enhances curb appeal and encourages foot traffic in retail zones.
Stormwater Management: Permeable concrete or properly sloped surfaces help prevent water pooling and erosion — especially important in large developments.
What This Means for Bloomingdale
The Stratford Mall site is poised to become a destination for living, shopping, dining, and gathering. For projects of this scale, concrete and paving decisions are more than cosmetic they are foundational. We hope to see developers work with experienced contractors who understand the balance between aesthetics, functionality, and longevity.
As a paving company rooted in the Chicagoland suburbs for over 30 years, we look forward to watching Bloomingdale evolve and we’re always ready to offer insight or solutions for communities across the region.
If It Were Our Project: Fortis Paving’s Approach to a Site Like Stratford
If Fortis were part of the redevelopment team, here’s how we’d approach the paving and concrete work to support both performance and visual impact:
1. Full-Site Infrastructure Planning
We’d start with a comprehensive plan that separates high-traffic zones (delivery routes, parking areas) from pedestrian pathways to minimize long-term wear and tear. This would include:
High-durability asphalt mixes for commercial traffic
Concrete curbs and aprons to maintain clean traffic flow
Well-placed signage bases and bollards for safety
2. Pedestrian-Friendly Concrete Work
Community spaces thrive on foot traffic, so we’d focus on:
Wide, ADA-compliant sidewalks with broom or exposed aggregate finishes
Stamped or decorative concrete for gathering areas to enhance visual appeal
Seamless transitions between storefronts, plazas, and green spaces
3. Green Integration & Drainage
To align with modern sustainability goals, we’d recommend:
Permeable concrete where possible to support water absorption
Strategic grading and trench drains to prevent water pooling
Eco-conscious materials that reduce the heat island effect in paved areas
4. Phased Execution for Large Sites
For a development the size of Stratford, our team would execute in structured phases to allow ongoing access while minimizing disruption — a critical element in keeping the project on schedule and budget.
Looking for Reliable Concrete or Asphalt Services Nearby?
Fortis Paving proudly serves Bloomingdale and beyond. Whether you’re upgrading your driveway or managing a commercial property, we bring expert craftsmanship and family-owned care to every job.
