The City Council of Berwyn, Illinois, convened on June 25, 2025, to discuss various issues affecting the community, particularly focusing on the Depot District's development and parking challenges.

The meeting opened with a review of the Depot District's improving vacancy rates, which have been decreasing over time due to recent enhancements made by the city. Despite this positive trend, council members acknowledged that vacancies still exist, prompting discussions on potential solutions to attract new businesses.

One significant point raised was the limited availability of properties for new developments in the area. A council member noted that the only adjoining building, currently occupied by a dentist, is not for sale, which restricts options for expansion. The conversation then shifted to the parking situation in the Depot District. It was highlighted that residential developments typically require only one parking space per unit, which could facilitate a variance application for new projects.

The council discussed the existing parking garage, which has 360 spaces, but noted that these are not fully utilized. The agreement allows Metro users to access these spots, and additional spaces are available. However, concerns were raised about the impact of McNeil's acquisition of nearby property, which has led to changes in parking dynamics. The hospital's employees are now occupying spaces that were previously available to the public, leading to a decrease in parking availability for visitors to the Depot District.

The meeting concluded with a suggestion to consider developing housing for seniors aged 65 and older, as this demographic typically requires fewer parking spaces. This proposal aims to address both housing needs and parking concerns in the area.

Overall, the council's discussions underscored the ongoing efforts to revitalize the Depot District while navigating the complexities of property availability and parking management. Further actions and follow-ups are expected as the council continues to explore solutions to these challenges.