From Chicago Sun-Times · · 2m
Chicago school expansion approved despite neighbor backlash
Chicago's Francis W. Parker School gets city approval for expansion after years of neighbor pushback
In brief
Chicago's Francis W. Parker School gets city approval for expansion after years of neighbor pushback School will add 125 students and 30 staff over seven years by demolishing a historic condo building Originally reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
Expansion approved
Francis W. Parker School received Chicago Plan Commission approval for its expansion project to add 125 students and 30 staff over seven years
Demolition plan
The school plans to demolish 15-unit Belden by the Park condos at 335 W Belden Ave to build a five-story building with pedestrian overpass
Capacity issue
Parker School has reached capacity at its current 330 W Webster Ave location with 940 students needing more space for growth
Neighborhood concerns
Neighbors protested the demolition of a 1909 vintage courtyard building at 335 W Belden Ave, calling it a historic neighborhood threat
Concessions made
The school narrowed the pedestrian overpass, moved mechanical equipment east, and created more natural light for neighboring townhomes
30-year agreement
Parker committed to keeping the building at 317-25 W Belden Ave residential for 30 years to address neighborhood concerns
Public opposition
Over 40 neighbors spoke against the project, with preservation groups urging rejection of the proposal to protect historic buildings
Better Plan alternative
East Lincoln Park Neighbors proposed a five-story building on Parker's parking lot with aquatic center to avoid demolition
School response
Parker's board claims the proposal resulted from years of collaboration with neighbors and community groups to benefit students and the city
Construction timeline
The school expects construction to start no sooner than 2028 after approval from Chicago Plan Commission
Cost estimate
The expansion project is estimated at $39 million to add 125 students and 30 permanent staff positions
Historic building
The 1909 courtyard building at 335 W Belden Ave is part of Chicago's landmark district that preservation groups have protected for years
Public hearing
Over 40 neighbors signed up to speak at the public hearing about the school's expansion proposal
Neighborhood impact
The project would add 125 new students and 30 permanent staff to Parker School while creating more space for the community
Here's the gist
School will add 125 students and 30 staff over seven years by demolishing a historic condo building
