Sterling Bay, a prominent developer, has recently unveiled plans for two high-rise towers near the Lincoln Yards area, sparking a mix of opposition and support from the community. While some residents praise the project's amenities for pedestrians and cyclists, others are concerned about its scale and potential impact on traffic.
This blog aims to dissect the proposal in detail, focusing on its construction aspects and what it means for the commercial construction industry.
The north tower, planned to be 27 stories high, will feature:
- 300 apartments spread across 20 floors
- Each floor will house 15 apartments
- Average size of 747 square feet per unit
Chicago Yimby reports that the remaining six floors will be dedicated to amenities, retail spaces, and 206 parking spots.
The south tower, on the other hand, will be 16 stories high and curved to create an open lawn between the two structures. It will include:
- 308 apartments across 14 floors
- Each floor having 22 apartments
- Average 780 square feet per unit
The two non-residential floors will feature retail spaces and a lobby.
Sterling Bay's proposal includes a total of 360 parking spaces—206 in the north tower and 154 underground in the south tower. Additionally, the development will feature about 600 bike parking spots, catering to the city's growing cyclist community.
The project also includes open green spaces accessible to the public. These areas aim to provide a communal space for residents and visitors alike, enhancing the neighborhood's livability.
To manage traffic, a small connecting road between Marcey and Kingsbury streets is planned. This road will serve as a drop-off and pick-up point, diverting traffic from main roads and reducing congestion.
These amenities will include the following:
- Traffic signals at Clybourn Avenue and Wisconsin Street
- Improved crosswalks and ADA ramps at multiple intersections
- Widened sidewalks around the high-rises
While the project promises various amenities, it has also raised concerns among residents about its scale and potential to exacerbate traffic issues. Former Ald. Michele Smith accused Sterling Bay of using this project to generate buzz for their struggling Lincoln Yards megadevelopment.
Sterling Bay will take community feedback into account and may present revised plans in a follow-up meeting. No cost estimates or groundbreaking dates have been announced yet.
Sterling Bay's high-rise proposal near Lincoln Yards has stirred a pot of mixed reactions. While the project promises to bring in modern living spaces, retail opportunities, and improved public areas, it also faces significant community opposition. As the plans are still under review, it remains to be seen how Sterling Bay will address these concerns. But one thing is clear: the project has the potential to significantly alter the landscape of the Lincoln Yards area, for better or worse.
Call to Action: Stay updated on this developing story and what it means for the commercial construction industry.
DataBid is currently reporting on this project - 1840 N. Marcey Street Mixed Use Development Lincoln Park - Chicago (0018101823)