- When: 2025/03/12
- Address: 1542-1550 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL
- City: Chicago
- State: IL
- Category: Spot Rezoning
- Subcategory: Mixed-Use Rezoning
- Asset Class: Commercial
- Property Type: Retail
Chicago City Council approved the rezoning of 1542–1550 W Chicago Ave from B1-2 to B3-5 to allow for a high-density, mixed-use development on a key commercial corridor. The zoning change increases the allowed FAR and expands the scope of permissible uses, opening the door to a transit-oriented development that may include residential units above street-level commercial space. The new designation aligns with West Town’s growth patterns and the City’s broader strategies for intensifying development near transit and revitalizing neighborhood retail corridors. The higher zoning classification provides greater design flexibility and development potential for new construction that contributes to the corridor’s economic vitality.
Why it Matters
This rezoning enables higher-density mixed-use development on a major commercial street, enhancing walkability, housing supply, and commercial investment in a transit-rich neighborhood.
Source
Allowed Uses: B3-5 zoning allows a broad range of commercial and mixed-use developments, including ground-floor retail, restaurants, and upper-story residential or office space. The designation encourages transit-oriented development in commercial corridors, as per Chicago Zoning Ordinance 17-4-0200 and 17-3-0200.
Density: FAR of 5.0 in B3-5 districts (17-3-0405). Residential lot area minimum: 400 sq ft for efficiencies, 500 sq ft for one-bedrooms (17-3-0408).
Minimum Lot Size: 400 sq ft per efficiency unit; 500 sq ft per one-bedroom unit (17-3-0408).
Maximum Building Height: Varies by site and overlays; generally up to 80 ft, subject to context and form-based rules (17-4-1000).
Lot Coverage: Controlled via FAR, height, and setback regulations; no specific maximum lot coverage (17-4-1000).
Previous Zoning: B1-2 Neighborhood Shopping District