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Wolf Point neighbors ask city council to delay approval
(Above) Rendering of a three-tower development of Wolf Point, visualized from the south. Behind the towers are 350 West Mart Center at left and Merchandise Mart at right. (Click on image to view larger version.) 13-Feb-13 – Property owners and residents near Wolf Point have asked the Chicago City Council to postpone final approval of a proposed three-tower development. The project is divided into three phases, the first being a 525-foot, 510-unit residential tower on the west side of the 3.85-acre site near Merchandise Mart. On land owned by the Kennedy family, Houston-based Hines Interests L.P. wants to eventually build a 950-foot south tower and a 750-foot east tower that would both contain a mix of office, retail, and residential space. According to a motion submitted to the council on Wednesday by Friends of Wolf Point, “many citizens of Chicago” are opposed to the plan. After being approved by the Chicago Plan Commission on January 24, the project passed the city council’s committee on zoning, landmarks, and building standards on February 11 – but says the group, the project was not on any official agenda. They say it is “a clear violation” of city rules concerning public meetings. “Many persons affected by the proposed amendment have been denied due process in connection with this proposed legislation,” reads the motion, “in violation of their rights under the United States and State of Illinois constitutions and Illinois statutes.” Friends of Wolf Point wants the council to defer its decision until “correct and valid public notice” is given. Update: The Wolf Point planned development amendment will be re-heard at the February 26 meeting of the city’s zoning committee. |
