As many residents are aware, the land located at the corner of Lake and Lathrop has long been troubled with environmental concerns dating back to the 1990’s when soil contamination was first discovered as a result of a history of dry-cleaning facilities located on the premises. While this is a very necessary and worthwhile effort to ensure the safety of the community, it is not for the faint of heart as the process is lengthy, complex, costly and hindered by all sorts of red tape. Sedgwick Properties welcomed this challenge and continues the charge to ensure the site meets state environmental standards.
In order to meet testing standards and best protect residents, Sedgwick first and foremost needed to take down the buildings currently located on premise, and level the site. When the initial work scope for this was evaluated, an opportunity arose to participate in a recycling program during the building removal process. While this ultimately would increase the time required to complete the building removal, it was clear it was the right choice as it would result in a more environmentally conscientious development. Although a bit more tedious, the building was carefully taken down so that the majority of the structure was able to be reused in other projects.
Upon completion of the building’s removal in their entirety, Pioneer Engineering, Sedgwick’s environmental consultant, was able to initiate the required site testing and cleanup process. In order to determine the exact scope of the remediation required, extensive site testing was conducted. This testing resulted in Pioneer preparing and submitting a very detailed site investigation, remediation objectives report and remedial action plan to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA).
Sedgwick now awaits the approval of this submittal by the IEPA as it is absolutely required in achieving a “No Further Remediation” (NFR) determination, meaning the site is “clean” and construction of the project can commence.
In parallel, Sedgwick is also pursuing remedial benefits from the Illinois Drycleaners Trust Fund (IDTF), as the contamination resulting from the dry-cleaning business formerly located on the premise qualifies the project to be eligible to receive these benefits. In a combined effort with the former dry-cleaning business, Sedgwick has obtained the appropriate authorization, and Pioneer has submitted the remediation budget for approval to the IDTF. Upon IDTF and IEPA approval, the on-site remediation process can be completed.
The condominium homes at RF will have unmatched access to the outdoors, providing condo owners with outdoor space that rivals that of a single-family home, without the maintenance. Each condominium will include a large, covered terrace that runs the length of the combined living and dining room, providing almost double the entertaining space during most of the year. In addition, a limited number of buyers will have an opportunity for expanded outdoor living spaces. The second floor and penthouse homes will offer more outdoor space that homeowners can customize to suit their lifestyles. On the premium second floor terrace level, owners will have 1,000 square feet of south-facing, uncovered space. The penthouses will include private elevator access to their roof rights, directly above the units.
Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty is leading the sales of the project, Pre-construction pricing from $599,900 to $1,449,900. Call 312-335-5354 or visit www.RF-LakeStreet.com for more information. Due to the Covid-19 Shelter-In-Place Order, the Sales Center at 7579 Lake Street is open for individual appointments only. Meanwhile, the RF Development team wishes good health to all during these challenging times.
