ZBA approves variances for 629 W. Lake

The Zoning Board of Appeals has approved a set of variances for a mixed-use development at 629 W. Lake St. Currently home to the Fast Track restaurant, the subject property is a slender lot at the southeastern corner of the intersection of W. Lake St and N. Desplaines St. Developed by Rogers Park Holdings LLC, Urbanize originally reported on the project back in February. 

With a design from Axios Architects and Consultants, the new development will deliver an eight-story mixed-use building. Rising 123 feet, the building will hold 2,000 square feet of retail space and 49 residential units. The unit mix will consist of 19 studios, 17 one-beds, and 13 two-bedroom apartments. 49 bike parking spaces and 2 car parking spaces will be provided.

Occupying the site lot line-to-lot line, the retail space will occupy the northern corner, facing both W. Lake St and N Desplaines St. The residential entry will front N. Desplaines St at about the center of the building. The building’s edifice will be made up of brick with a stone cornice. Metal and glass balconies will dot the facade, providing outdoor space for every unit.

The developer sought approval from the Zoning Board of Appeals to reduce the required parking spaces from 34 to 2, as well as to reduce the rear setback on floors with dwelling units from the required 30 feet down to 0.12 feet. With ZBA approval, the as-of right development can move forward without any further city approvals. Permits have not been filed for the project.