Last week, Viewpoints published a letter to the editor from a resident who raised questions about the proposed Madison-Ashland development. I want to take some space to address these questions.
To be clear, all River Forest Village Trustees were involved in the decision to move forward with the developer, Five Thirty One Partners. While one meeting was not attended by two trustees, the entire board attended subsequent meetings where the evaluation and decision were discussed. In addition, all trustees attended site tours, and the decision to move Five Thirty One Partners forward through the application process was unanimous.
Some residents have also expressed concern about the Economic Development Commission’s (EDC) role throughout this process. The EDC developed the Request for Proposals for a brokerage partner and recommended engaging Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), nationally and internationally recognized experts in the selection of qualified developers. As proposals advanced, the EDC participated in several executive session discussions during the fall of 2025, reviewing financial analyses and helping develop vetting questions. The commission also held a public meeting on Feb. 4 of this year to discuss the proposed retail components of this development in terms of supporting the village’s economic goals. This is typical of the EDC’s role in the development process.
Finally, regarding opportunities for resident dialogue, since announcing Five Thirty One Partners as the proposed developer, the village has hosted four open houses. These were designed to allow residents the opportunity to talk directly with village staff and the proposed developer, rather than waiting for formal meetings or hearings. Those conversations and the ongoing public comments continue to inform the village board as it prepares for a decision this summer on the proposed Madison-Ashland development project.
And so the process continues. Five Thirty One Partners will submit their formal application in the coming weeks, and residents will have access to more details to help address questions and concerns. We look forward to continuing to hear from and engage with residents.