What’s behind the local coffee shop boom? Local owners weigh in

In a matter of months, Kankakee County has welcomed new coffee shops ranging from independent, mom-and-pop businesses to national chains.From specialty lattes and flavored cold brews to drive-thru coffee windows, the area is getting more options for customers looking for their caffeine fix. But what’s behind the growth?Local business owners have their own ideas about what’s drawing more coffee shops to the area.Pour Decisions, a coffee and baked goods shop at 2450 W. Illinois Route 17 in Kankakee near Limestone, opened Sept. 22, owner Meagan Ferris said.The shop serves specialty drinks, including pumpkin lattes, s’mores cold brews and pumpkin cream matchas, along with baked goods such as brownies, muffins and cookies.Ferris believes developments like the planned $100-million-plus Mattel Wonder Indoor Waterpark in Bradley and nearby sports complex have helped attract businesses to the area. She said she did not notice a similar influx of coffee shops before the water park was proposed,