In a bold move to expand Illinois’ film production footprint beyond the Chicago metro area, a Pittsburgh-based development group has submitted a $62 million proposal to transform the former Envirotech Business Park in Wood River, Illinois into a full-scale studio campus, dubbed Hollywood River Studios.
Wood River Farm Investments LLC—helmed by 31st Street Studios CEO Christopher Breakwell—has proposed a state-of-the-art complex to be built on the city-owned 105-acre former EnviroTech site along Route 3. The plan includes up to six soundstages, production and post facilities, and a dedicated esports venue, all designed to attract mid-to large-scale productions to the Metro East region.
In a recent council meeting, the proposal was presented as the only response to the city’s RFP to redevelop the long-vacant site. The developer is offering $500,000 for the land and anticipates a phased, 16-month buildout. If approved, construction could begin as early as late 2025.
Attracted by the Illinois Film Tax Credit
At the heart of the proposal is Illinois’ uncapped 30% film production tax credit, which the developer cites as a key driver in choosing Illinois over neighboring Missouri, where no such incentive exists.
“Illinois has an amazing film tax credit,” Breakwell said. “The state has an uncapped tax credit of upwards of 30% when you include certain employee-eligible tax incentives.”
The campus would be designed to lease individual lots and facilities to production companies, much like Chicago’s Cinespace, but with lower overhead and regional flexibility.
While the proposal is the only bid the city received for the site, no formal decision has been made. Council members are currently reviewing the plan and could bring it to a vote later this summer.
For Illinois film crews, particularly those looking beyond Chicago, this project could mark a major shift. Hollywood River Studios would create fresh job opportunities, in a studio-grade space close to the St. Louis metro area.
Stay with Reel Chicago as we continue to track this developing story.
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