The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is inviting individuals and organizations to submit statements of interest to rehabilitate and reuse Oak Cottage, a circa-1850 Greek Revival style farmhouse located within Greene Valley Forest Preserve in Naperville. Statements of interest can be submitted starting June 16 and will be due by Oct. 16.

The initiative is part of the preserve’s master plan, which calls for identifying a partner to determine a use, restore, and maintain the historic home in a way that aligns with the Forest Preserve District’s mission of conservation, education, and preservation. Oak Cottage has been vacant since 1983 and is in need of substantial rehabilitation.

A recent Cultural Resource Report identified several structural needs, including strengthening of the stairs and east room. The estimated costs for adaptive reuse range from $279,000 to $500,000 with another $200,000 - $500,000 for sitework and utilities depending on local requirements.

“The request gives us a chance to connect with partners who share our vision and can bring new life to a piece of DuPage County’s agricultural history,” said Jessica Ortega, manager of strategic plans and initiatives for the District. “We’re looking for proposals that will both preserve the home’s historic character and support our broader goals.”

The request process includes two phases. The first involves evaluating statements of interest based on factors such as proposed reuse, preservation strategy, project funding, feasibility planning, and mission alignment. Selected applicants will then enter a second phase requiring submission of a business plan, architectural and engineering plans, and evidence of financial and organizational support. The final project must be completed within three years.

A site visit and optional pre-submittal conference will be held July 16 at Oak Cottage, located at 23W171 Hobson Road in Naperville.

A detailed cultural resource evaluation and the District’s policy on managing historical and cultural resources are available to help interested parties prepare their submissions. 

For more information, including submission guidelines and background materials, contact Jessica Ortega at jortega@dupageforest.org or 630-871-6404.