In a better world a local pol would not have the power – or the arrogance – to dictate aspects of the design of a high-rise building. In the world of Chicago, an alderman has the ability to harass, delay and punish developers who have the temerity to stand on their rights.
From Alderman Brendan Reilly’s latest 42nd Ward newsletter:
Dear Neighbor,
I have recently contacted the Department of Housing and Economic Development and requested they defer the 500 North Lake Shore Drive item from the upcoming May 19th Plan Commission Meeting Agenda.
…
Although we have successfully addressed community concerns related to congestion and density – I am disappointed it has taken more time to resolve legitimate concerns related to the aesthetics of the parking base which will sit in a very visible, high profile location just a few feet from Lake Shore Drive.
During the community meeting I hosted to review this “as-of-right” project, I listened very carefully to concerns regarding the design of the parking base. Although the Planned Development and zoning rights were approved years ago for this project by my predecessor and this project is pending a simple Lakefront Protection approval – I have been working hard to negotiate a more sensitive design of the parking structure.Because I know Streeterville residents are deeply committed to sustainability and the continued “greening” of the neighborhood – I directed the architect and development team to incorporate creative “green elements” into the design of the base. To address concerns related to the eastern elevation of the proposed structure (facing Lake Shore Drive), I insisted that roughly one-third of that elevation be furnished with an all-season green wall (that survives 12 months a year) and complemented by planted mature trees.
The addition of this unique “green” design element would make 500 N Lake Shore Drive the first building in Chicago featuring a year-round exterior green wall – which would attract recognition for Streeterville’s deep commitment to environmental sustainability and local “green” initiatives. I believe this design change poses a win-win for neighbors.
An additional rendering (pdf) can be found at the 42nd Ward Web.
The residents of Related Midwest‘s 500 N Lake Shore Drive high-rise will doubtless enjoy paying to indulge their neighbors’ green-preen and their Alderman’s whims.
Joe O’Zekas,
it’s Reilly. No “O” before his name.
That being said if I wasn’t known for my sense of decorum and class I might refer to him as Alderman O’Turd. Thankfully, I won’t do that.
There needs to be an zoning czar in Chicago. Someone with a ten year tenure, like the FBI Director, and a small staff to decide on what zoning and related matters should be. I’ll do it for 150K a year, a car, and a small staff to run my personal errands and pick up my dry cleaning. Ooops, did I say that out loud? I mean a small staff to assist me in the important functions of my office.
Alderman can’t be trusted on matters this important. They are often more concerned about being reelected or campaign donations than they are what’s right for the city and their wards.
Although, Reilly didn’t have an opponent in the last election he got his ample buttock handed back to him after backing a number of candidates in other wards with money and resources. He used to work for Mike Madigan. He has all the charm of Madigan and about 1/8 the brains and cunning. Less hair too.
Wouldn’t we want the trees facing the park? Trees facing lsd where only drivers and maybe the people on the beach would see them?
Anyway, another example of Aldermen playing king and not realizing the harm they’re inflicting on the city (imagine you’re a business person who has to jump through a zillion hoops (at added cost) to get anything done. You either go somewhere else or pass on the costs…)
IP,
Thanks for the catch. I’ve corrected my misspelling.
More than a zoning czar we need some respect for the rule of law in this town.
Trees on lsd,
I don’t have to imagine. I am a businessman and I’ve been a developer. Reilly’s tone is frightening, and his arrogance is appalling.
And using greening, sustainability and Streeterville in the same sentence, with no sense of irony, is hilarious.
My favorite line is “I directed the architect and development team to incorporate creative “green elements” into the design of the base.”
Is Reilly the project manager?
O’Zekas…ha.