What's Happening?
A 262-unit townhome and rowhome development, named 'Towns at Naper Commons,' is scheduled for review by the Naperville Planning and Zoning Commission. This project is proposed for a 40-acre site at the northwest corner of Warrenville and Naperville roads,
previously intended for a controversial data center that was rejected in January. The development will feature two-story townhomes with front garages, ranging from 1,858 to 2,474 square feet, and three-story rowhomes with rear garages, ranging from 2,219 to 2,771 square feet. The developer, Pulte Homes, is requesting several variances, including rezoning 35 acres from office, research, and light industry (ORI) to single-family and low-density multiple-family residential use. Other requests involve allowing four-story townhomes due to rooftop terraces or habitable attic spaces, a 15-foot front yard setback for units with rear garages, and a reduction in parkway trees. The project also includes 11,000 square feet of open field park and multiple courtyard spaces.
Why It's Important?
This project represents a significant shift in land use for a prominent Naperville site, moving from industrial development to residential housing. The rejection of the data center, driven by community concerns over health and quality of life, highlights the growing influence of local residents in urban planning decisions. The proposed townhomes aim to revitalize a long-vacant property and offer diverse housing options for young professionals, families, and 'downsizers,' potentially addressing Naperville's identified housing shortage. While none of the units are designated as affordable, the developer argues the project will increase housing diversity. The variances requested, particularly the rezoning, underscore the flexibility required in urban development to meet evolving community needs and market demands, contrasting with the previous industrial proposal that faced strong opposition.
What's Next?
The 'Towns at Naper Commons' project will first be reviewed by the Naperville Planning and Zoning Commission. Should it receive approval from the commission, it will then proceed to the City Council for final consideration. If approved, the development is expected to move forward with construction, transforming the vacant site into a residential community. The developer anticipates pricing for the homes to range from $515,000 to $680,000 per residence. Future discussions may also involve incorporating local businesses or amenities, such as coffee shops or ice cream shops, as suggested by some Naper Commons residents, though the developer has focused on passive open space for this project.
Beyond the Headlines
The transition of this site from a rejected data center to a residential development reflects a broader trend of communities prioritizing quality of life and residential needs over certain industrial expansions, especially those perceived to have negative environmental or health impacts. The initial strong opposition to the data center and the subsequent embrace of a housing project illustrate the power of community advocacy in shaping local development. This case also highlights the challenges cities face in balancing economic development with residential concerns, particularly in areas with existing housing shortages. The developer's emphasis on increasing housing diversity, even without designated affordable units, points to ongoing debates about housing accessibility and the role of new developments in addressing these issues.
