Village to Consider Proposal for High-Density Apartment Complex

Though Buffalo Grove officials voiced many concerns over a developer's proposal to construct a four-story apartment building on Prairie Road, they said last week they will continue to explore the option.

Chicago-based Evergreen Real Estate Services has presented plans to build a 72-unit residential building on the southeast, unincorporated corner of Half Day and Prairie roads. The building would include 42 one-bedroom units, 15 two-bedroom units and 15 three-bedroom units.

Trustees expressed concern over stormwater management challenges that have prevented developers from building on the site in the past. They also noted the building would have a higher density than other apartment complexes in the village. The 3.2-acre parcel would hold an average of 22.3 units per acre and offer limited space for residential parking.

"Those who can or want to take the train will, but others will get in their car and drive," Trustee DeAnn Glover said. "There's no place to expand the parking if you want to."

"This really has to make sense on so many levels to me," she added.

The developer, Thomas Brantley, has expressed interest in teaming with the Affordable Housing Coalition of Lake County to classify some of the units as "affordable." Evergreen representatives have said the units, which would offer 950, 1,100 or 1,300 square feet, would be rented for $694, $828 and $949 per month, respectively. Tenants would have the option of entering a 15-year lease-to-own program.

While she echoed others' concerns about parking and density, Trustee Lisa Stone said affordable housing is worth consideration in a weak economy.

"In this economy, for many people, especially senior citizens, they are finding it hard to pay rent," Stone said. "Given the economy, I think we need to consider this."

Village President Elliott Hartstein said the board will notify the developer of the village's interest in pursuing the project, but will "make no commitments." Eventual approval of the proposal would be pursuant to engineering reports and feedback from school district officials, he said.