Village Officials Critique Apartment Proposal

A preliminary review of a proposal to build an apartment complex at the southwest corner of Deerfield and Busch parkways was met with questions and concerns Monday night.

The proposal calls for the construction of three buildings, including an eight-story structure, that would contain 208 one- and two-bedroom rental units.

Representatives from Northbrook-based Realtelligence, who serve as consultants to the property’s contact purchaser, acknowledged that the project would require a variance to the village’s height ordinance, which restricts such buildings to 45 feet. The eight-and-a-half-story building, which would include a penthouse, would be 85 feet tall. The other two buildings would be three-story walk-ups. The property, which is zoned for industrial use, would need to be rezoned for residential use.

The proposed development, which is adjacent to an industrial park, is expected to appeal to young adults and senior citizens on limited incomes, Realtelligence representative Jordan Glazov said. The apartments are anticipated to attract 376 residents, but only 12 school-age children, he said. The development, which would be built on 4.5 acres by Naperville-based Marquette Companies, would include a rooftop splash pool and fitness facility.

Buffalo Grove trustees voiced concerns about the height of the tallest building and that plans call for only 225 parking spaces. A village ordinance requires 354 parking spaces for a development of that size.

While Realtelligence representatives said they expect parking demands to be lower than average due to the proximity of the Metra train station and speculation that employees of nearby industrial businesses could walk to work, Trustee Steve Trilling noted that amenities such as grocery stores and dry cleaners are not within walking distance.

“You’re dropping an isolated island of residents into an industrial area,” Trustee Jeff Berman said. “I’m highly leery of a development that justifies its density based on (easy access to trains).”

“I think it’s too dense. I think it’s out of character with the area, and I have serious concerns with it,” Berman said.

Realtelligence representative Doug Johnson said his firm will rework plans to increase parking spaces. At the request of village officials, they also will verify that the eight-story building would not interfere with air traffic at Chicago Executive Airport.