29-Dec-17 – A proposal to build a 76-story residential and retail tower on what is now a parking lot across from Holy Name Cathedral in River North has hit a speed bump.

2nd Ward Alderman Brian Hopkins has asked the Chicago Plan Commission to postpone consideration of One Chicago Square, saying more public feedback is needed for such a big project. The proposal by JDL Development was scheduled to be heard at the commission’s December 21 meeting. The building at 1 East Chicago Avenue would include condominium and rental units, along with a grocery store and fitness center open to the public. (Left) Looking northeast, with John Hancock Center and Lake Michigan in distance.

Hopkins says he has received numerous inquiries about how the project would affect traffic in the neighborhood. He has asked Chicago Department of Transportation, Chicago Transit Authority, and JDL Development to provide a detailed traffic analysis.

“It is my firm position that traffic congestion is an existing issue at this location, and new measures must be developed and implemented to improve traffic flow at this vital thoroughfare, regardless if a new development is built,” said Hopkins (right).

JDL Development presented their proposal on October 24 at a public meeting hosted by Hopkins and River North Residents Association.