Naperville City Council Initiates Study on I-88 Corridor Development Amid Zoning Concerns
The Naperville City Council has decided to commission a study focusing on the Interstate 88 corridor to develop a new plan for future development. This decision follows the allocation of $150,000 for a special project study in 2026, with the council opting to prioritize the I-88 corridor over other potential projects, such as the city-owned land around Naperville’s Fifth Avenue Metra station. The study aims to create a land use plan and update zoning regulations, building on a 2025 study by the Naperville Development Partnership that highlighted redevelopment opportunities and industry attraction strategies. The council's decision comes amid concerns about outdated zoning, as exemplified by the rejection of the Karis Critical data center proposal. Mayor Scott Wehrli emphasized the importance of maintaining the corridor as a business hub, while some council members expressed a preference for focusing on affordable housing needs. 
