In the heart of Waukegan, a new laundromat is set to open its doors at 610 North Avenue, nestled within a small commercial enclave surrounded by residential neighborhoods. The Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on September 11, 2025, illuminated the details of this proposed establishment, which aims to serve local residents, particularly those without access to vehicles.

The laundromat, occupying 1,300 square feet in the former Art Pie building, will operate with limited staffing—one to two employees during peak hours—and anticipates around 8 to 12 customers at a time. Notably, the facility will not offer on-site parking, relying instead on street parking along North Avenue and Franklin Street, where parking is permitted on only one side. This has raised some concerns among local officials, particularly regarding the potential for congestion in an already busy area.

The property owners, who also manage several nearby buildings, expressed their commitment to revitalizing the local retail corridor, which has seen a rise in vacancies. They highlighted the community's need for a laundromat, as many residents in the vicinity currently travel over a mile to access laundry services. The owners believe that establishing this laundromat will not only provide a valuable resource for local tenants but also help to invigorate the surrounding business landscape.

During the meeting, Sixth Ward Alderman Keith Turner raised concerns about the proposed hours of operation, suggesting a more limited timeframe of 7 AM to 8 PM to minimize noise disturbances for nearby residents. The owners, however, proposed hours from 8 AM to 10 PM, aiming to accommodate working individuals who may need to do laundry after hours.

The commission ultimately voted in favor of recommending the conditional use permit for the laundromat, with the expectation that it will enhance the neighborhood's vibrancy and address the needs of local residents. As Waukegan continues to evolve, this new laundromat represents a step towards fostering community-oriented businesses that cater to the everyday needs of its residents.