A dramatic redevelopment plan could soon transform a long-vacant industrial site in Wood River, Illinois into a thriving hub for film and digital production. A $62 million proposal, spearheaded by Wood River Farm Investments LLC, seeks to establish Hollywood River Studios on the city-owned 105-acre Envirotech Business Park site. Backed by Pittsburgh-based developer and 31st Street Studios CEO Christopher Breakwell, the project could significantly expand Illinois’ film production infrastructure—while also bringing hundreds of construction jobs to the region.
The proposed studio campus would be located along Route 3, a corridor that offers strong road access and logistical convenience within the Metro East region. The full plan includes:
Up to six purpose-built soundstages
Production and post-production facilities
A dedicated esports venue
Utility infrastructure, roads, and site grading for long-term use
Reel Chicago reports that if approved by the city, the development will take place in multiple phases over a 16-month timeline. Construction could begin as early as late 2025, pending city council approval of the proposal.
Breakwell’s group has offered $500,000 to purchase the property and is currently the only respondent to the City of Wood River’s official request for proposals (RFP). City officials are now reviewing the plan and expect to vote on it later this summer.
The scale of the Hollywood River Studios development will require a diverse and highly skilled construction workforce. This includes, but is not limited to:
Site Prep & Excavation Crews – Clearing and grading the 105-acre site, trenching for underground utilities
Concrete Workers & Formsetters – Pouring foundations, floors, and soundproof studio walls
Steel Erectors & Structural Welders – Assembling the large-span structural frames needed for soundstage buildings
HVAC & Mechanical Technicians – Installing robust climate control systems essential for studio operations
Electricians & Low-Voltage Specialists – Wiring for lighting grids, control rooms, production spaces, and esports technology
Roofers & Waterproofing Teams – Sealing expansive roof systems that cover soundproof studio areas
Drywallers & Interior Finishers – Outfitting post-production offices, green rooms, lounges, and administrative areas
Audio/Video Infrastructure Installers – Integrating studio-grade wiring, acoustics, and fiber systems
Landscapers & Civil Works Teams – Completing outdoor spaces, stormwater management, and utility corridors
This project will provide steady work for both union and non-union tradespeople across the Metro East region. It also has the potential to stimulate demand for local suppliers, equipment rentals, trucking services, and subcontracting businesses.
One of the major draws for the developer is Illinois’ uncapped 30% film production tax credit, which provides a critical incentive for productions choosing filming locations. Breakwell noted that neighboring Missouri lacks such a credit, giving Illinois a competitive advantage.
This tax benefit could attract mid- to large-scale productions seeking more cost-effective alternatives to high-rent facilities in Los Angeles or New York. The model closely mirrors that of Cinespace in Chicago but aims to offer more affordable and flexible leasing options.
The Hollywood River Studios proposal outlines a campus designed to accommodate both temporary and long-term tenants, with each soundstage and post-production unit capable of standalone leasing. This model is intended to appeal to:
Streaming platforms producing original content
National ad agencies filming commercial spots
Game developers and esports teams
Independent filmmakers and regional studios
The inclusion of an esports venue makes the development particularly future-forward, tapping into the growing digital entertainment and competitive gaming industries.
If realized, the Hollywood River Studios project would represent one of the largest entertainment-focused developments in southern Illinois. For construction professionals, it signals not only a large-scale job generator but also a long-term opportunity to contribute to a new sector of infrastructure.
Moreover, once operational, the studio is expected to bring ongoing economic benefits to Wood River and surrounding communities through hotel stays, restaurant visits, transportation services, and retail activity generated by production crews and talent.
The proposal is currently under review by the Wood River City Council. Though no formal decision has been made yet, the exclusive submission status gives Breakwell’s team a strong position. If the plan is approved later this summer, pre-construction work could begin before the end of 2025.
For Illinois-based construction workers, tradespeople, and contractors, this development may become a defining project for the region. It combines infrastructure expansion, job creation, and a modern industry focus—making Hollywood River Studios a project worth watching.