Preservation commission, public warn Envision Evanston 2045 zoning draft could threaten historic neighborhoods

Public commenters and members of the Evanston Preservation Commission warned the commission and city staff on Tuesday that proposed zoning changes tied to the draft Envision Evanston 2045 comprehensive plan could accelerate demolition and undermine the character of multiple neighborhoods.

The warning came during public comment and a lengthy preservation-commission review of draft zoning maps that would increase allowed building height and bulk across several downtown and neighborhood commercial corridors. Steve Test, a resident of 1135 Hinman Avenue, told the commission the draft plan “is weighed so heavily towards developers” and urged the commission to push for a stronger preservation chapter to give the body more tools to protect Evanston’s existing fabric.

Why it matters: The commission’s review focused less on individual applications than on the broader policy and zoning changes in the draft plan — specifically proposals that would raise maximum heights and floor‑area ratios on blocks now characterized by low‑scale storefronts, historic landmarks and small multifamily buildings. Commissioners said increasing development potential without neighborhood‑sensitive safeguards could make demolition and large infill projects more likely and increase pressure on long‑time residents.

What was said and discussed

- Tina Paden, who said she lives at 1122 Emerson Street, described a local history of displacement tied to earlier large projects and urged the commission to “stop Envision 2045 and stop the comprehensive plan” unless…