Faced with questions about potential annexation of a ½ square mile area at its south edge, the Village of Clarendon Hills engaged Teska Associates to prepare the 55th Street Subarea Plan. Key questions for the study were to understand what options existed for potential commercial development in the area and what infrastructure needs existed in the area. To join in addressing these issues, Business Districts, Inc. and Baxter & Woodman were part of the consultant team preparing the plan.
In addition to fundamental questions of land use, economic development and infrastructure, the plan considered how to better connect the community; 55th Street had proven to be both a physical and psychological barrier for those living south of the road (Village and unincorporated residents) from being part of the community. In the context of that discussion, the desire of most unincorporated residents to not be part of the Village became apparent – many were concerned the Village sought to force annex the area. The Village had no intention of forcing annexation but sought to consider the many “what if” questions it might face. For example, what would be the public service and infrastructure impacts on the Village and what would be the tax impact on owners? Ultimately, the plan addressed questions of land use, economic development, transportation and infrastructure, and it opened lines of communications long since lost between the Village and unincorporated residents.
