Fernway Park Elementary School plans significant expansion and parking improvements

The Village of Orland Park Plan Commission convened on May 7, 2025, to discuss a proposed expansion of Fernway Park Elementary School. The meeting featured a presentation by Donald Mann from Manhart Consulting, who outlined the details of the project, which includes an addition at the southwest corner of the school and improvements to the parking lot.

The primary focus of the petition is to secure a special use permit for the school expansion and to modify the landscaping requirements along the property’s southern edge, adjacent to O'Brien Drive. The comprehensive plan designates the site for community and institutional use, with surrounding properties zoned for single-family residential.

The proposed expansion will add a new gymnasium and three classrooms, while maintaining the existing site plan with enhancements for pedestrian accessibility and an underground stormwater management system. The landscape plan includes new parkway trees and foundation plantings, although a modification is requested to reduce the number of trees in the landscape corridor due to existing pavement and parking areas.

Staff presented the building elevations, noting that the new gymnasium will reach a height of 30 feet, compliant with local zoning regulations. Public improvements were also discussed, including new sidewalks and crosswalks to enhance safety around the school.

The staff recommended approval of the site plan, landscape plan, building elevations, and special use permit, subject to several conditions, including an agreement to maintain the existing ground sign unless it is damaged or removed. The commission supported the modification for reduced landscaping in the corridor, as the overall tree count on-site will still exceed requirements.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the community's commitment to improving educational facilities while ensuring safety and accessibility for students and residents. The next steps will involve finalizing the special use permit and addressing the conditions outlined by staff.