One of Bloomington-Normal's most prolific developers is being remembered for his vision and enthusiasm in helping the community grow.
Jack Snyder died last Thursday at age 90. He was one of the area's most prominent developers during the Twin Cities' growth spurt in the 1980s and 90s.
His obituary credited Snyder with building more than 20% of Bloomington-Normal.
“I would not doubt it one bit,” former Bloomington Mayor Jesse Smart said.
A close friend of Snyder, Smart called Snyder the "father of Bloomington-Normal development."
“He was a brilliant mind," Smart said. “I was always so impressed with what a mind he had.”
Former Normal Mayor Paul Harmon witnessed much of the residential and commercial development Synder created.
“He had a big impact on the growth of the community,” Harmon said. “He did all sorts of projects, not only residential but also commercial and others. His dynamism in pushing those projects certainly impacted the community.”
Harmon noted one of Snyder's most significant projects in Normal was the town’s first subdivision with a golf course at Ironwood.
“Normal had land on the west side of town for a golf course but never had the wherewithal to put it together,” he said. “With Jack coming in with his particular subdivision proposal it made it possible for the town to have its first golf course.”
A memorial service for Snyder will be Wednesday at 2 p.m. at First Christian Church in Bloomington.
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