A proposed 10-story development along South Boulevard near the Pleasant Home has left area residents alarmed by its scale and scope. Not only would the tower dwarf nearby homes and commercial buildings, but it would substantially alter the feel of the downtown district. The plans call for a clock tower with color-shifting programmable lighting that, according to its architect, will be widely visible as the face of “a new Oak Park.”
Developers envision a 24-unit apartment tower attached to the Boulevard Arcade Building, an official Oak Park Historic Landmark at 1033 South Blvd. To do this, they will need two zoning variances: height and density. The proposal requires permission to build up to 110-124 feet in an area currently zoned for 60 feet. They also will ask for a density variance in an area already clogged with vehicles and pedestrians.
At architect John Schiess’ hastily announced Dec. 18 neighborhood meeting, about 30 nearby residents asked for details and got few. We learned that the Arcade’s tax break expires this year, and without additional income, the owners will have a tough time remaining viable. Only partial renderings were presented, and time for questions was limited. We were told that Mr. Schiess would present our concerns and comments to the village. We want to alert village residents that this project raises multiple red flags and demands further questions — and answers.
A second Historic Commission review of the proposal is slated for 7 p.m., Jan. 9 in village hall before it heads to the Plan Commission. We urge anyone concerned by development that threatens safety, accessibility and the maintenance of Oak Park’s historic standards to attend Thursday’s meeting. Complete plans are available at: https://www.oak-park.us/sites/default/files/commissions/1035_s_blvd-revised_proposal_12.9.2024.pdf
Comments can also be sent to Craig.Failor@oak-park.us and/or Atefa.ghaznawi@oak-park.us
Bill Bower
President of the board, Opera Club HOA
Jessica Callicoat
President of the board, Pleasant Condominium HOA
Valerie Spiller
President of the Board, Soho Townhome HOA
Dennis Stovall
President of the Board, Soho Condominium Association