April 20, 2024
Action Ridge members joined with a coalition of other affordable housing organizations and advocates to bring much needed affordable housing to Chicago’s Far NWS, and at the doorstep of Park Ridge, by supporting the Glenstar development at 8535 W. Higgins. This building will include 59 units of affordable housing. And given the transit-oriented development’s proximity to O’Hare airport (near the Cumberland Blue Line L stop), it was also seen as an imperative for Chicago workers throughout the area with long commutes to O’Hare.
After a nearly five year effort to overcome the fierce resistance of Chicago 41st Ward Alderperson Anthony Napolitano, the building received the approvals necessary for it to move forward. On December 14th, the Chicago Zoning Committee voted 12-5 to approve. The following day, the full Chicago City Council gave it final approval by a 33-13 margin. This historic victory received extensive media coverage including multiple articles in the Sun-Times; Tribune and WTTW. Many thanks to everyone who took the time to write letters, make calls, and submit testimony on behalf of this campaign!