A proposal from Lincoln Property Company to redevelop an Uptown parking lot next to Weiss Hospital passed the Chicago Plan Commission this week with a tweaked design and updated renderings from Valerio Dewalt Train Associates.
Developed by Lincoln Property Company, the $80 million project slated for 4600 N. Marine Drive calls for a 12-story courtyard-style building with 314 high-end rental units and parking for 136 cars. The new images show a lot more depth and detail in the facade as well as other exterior tweaks.
Valerio Dewalt Train Associates
Some of the recent changes were based on community feedback, according to the development team. These included the addition of bird-safe glass, EV charging stations, and a rideshare management program along Marine Drive. The developers also committed to providing "enhanced landscaping" and preserving more of the site's existing trees.
The Uptown project is required to provide 10 percent affordable housing, which works out to 31 units. The developers are providing eight units on-site for residents earning 60 percent of the area median income (AMI) and will contribute $3.1 million in-lieu payments to nonprofit Sarah's Circle to help build a facility at nearby 4700 N. Sheridan serving women who are either experiencing homelessness or who are at high risk for it.
Some community activists fiercely opposed the Marine Drive project for not providing more units in the building at 60 percent AMI. Ald. James Cappleman (46th) stood by his decision to support the development because he said it provided the most help to Uptown's "most vulnerable" citizens.
After earning the Plan Commission's support in a 9-3 vote, the proposed Uptown apartment development will next head to the city's Committee on Zoning and full City Council for final zoning and Lakefront Protection Ordinance approval before work can begin.
