What's Happening?
The Flossmoor Plan Commission has expressed support for the proposed OBE Studios film production campus, which is set to be developed on a 7.3-acre site at 3638 and 3648 198th Street. The project includes a multi-building campus featuring a 14,000-square-foot
administrative building, a 3,700-square-foot prop workshop, and a 10,000-square-foot soundstage. The development team, led by architect Edward Peck, is seeking several zoning modifications through the Planned Unit Development process. These include reduced setbacks, a lower parking ratio, and an increased height allowance for the soundstage building. The commission's support comes with recommendations for further refinement of the site design, particularly concerning setbacks and internal roadway layouts. The project aims to create a landscaped production environment, which is expected to attract film projects to the area.
Why It's Important?
The proposed OBE Studios campus represents a significant development for Flossmoor, potentially transforming underutilized land into a vibrant film production hub. This project could stimulate local economic growth by attracting film productions, which would bring jobs and increased business to the area. The support from the Plan Commission indicates a positive reception from local authorities, which is crucial for moving forward with the necessary zoning adjustments. The development aligns with the village's strategic goals of utilizing land effectively and enhancing community resources. If successful, the campus could position Flossmoor as a competitive location for film production, contributing to the broader entertainment industry in the region.
What's Next?
The development team plans to continue refining the site design based on feedback from the Plan Commission. They aim to secure final Planned Unit Development approval by the end of July, which would allow construction to begin before winter. This timeline is contingent on addressing concerns related to setbacks and ensuring compliance with zoning requirements. The project will likely undergo further scrutiny as it progresses, with potential adjustments to the design to better align with community and regulatory expectations. The development team is focused on maintaining momentum to meet their construction goals and capitalize on the opportunity to attract film projects to the area.
