Proposed Tinley Park apartment development faces opposition

Last week, Tinley Park village officials decided to delay the vote to approve a controversial 144-unit rental development slated for 7.6 acres of vacant land at the southwest corner of 191st Street and 80th Avenue. After receiving concerns from nearby homeowners regarding issues such as neighborhood character and “transient” renters, the southwest suburb’s Plan Commission has asked the developers to produce a market study demonstrating the project’s economic feasibility, reports the Chicago Tribune.

The location in question was previously approved for 144 condominiums in 2000 but the more recent shift from owner-occupied units to luxury rentals has some neighbors especially worried. Dubbed “The Residence at Brookside Glen,” the two-building project would offer amenities like a fitness center, outdoor pool, dog run, grilling stations, and a disc golf course aimed specifically at attracting young professionals.

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Opponents of the plan are concerned that the project may not be able to get the high rents promised. According to developers Karli Mayher and DJM-Vandenberg Brookside Joint Venture, one- and two-bedroom apartments would go for between $1,500 and $2,500 per month. An attorney representing the team pointed to 3 percent vacancy in a comparable, highly-amenitized rental project in nearby Orland Park.

Despite the decision to delay by the Tinley Park Plan Commission, the developers may not have to wait very long. The next opportunity to vote on the project could come as soon as June 15th—provided the requested economic study ready. If approved, construction on The Residence at Brookside Glen could begin this fall and is expected to take about one year to complete.

• Tinley Park planners delay vote on controversial apartment project [Chicago Tribune]
• Plans for Tinley Park apartments not well received [Chicago Tribune]