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Oak Park ZBA approves variances allowing synagogue expansion on Balfour Avenue after split public comment
Summary
The Oak Park Zoning Board of Appeals approved variances permitting a synagogue expansion and a 27-space parking lot on Balfour Avenue (case 25‑O1) after residents raised traffic and safety concerns; the board added a condition requiring the applicant to work with city planning and economic development on alternative parking.
The Oak Park Zoning Board of Appeals on 2024-10-22 approved variances that will allow a synagogue expansion and a 27-space parking lot at properties listed as 14631–14651 Balfour Avenue.
The board’s motion to grant the variances — reducing east and south setbacks, allowing a larger share of impervious/previous surface (requested 84% vs the 70% limit), and permitting parking within the front setback — passed after public comment that ranged from staunch opposition to active support. The approval was amended to require the applicant to work with the city’s planning and economic development departments on alternative parking arrangements and to comply with zoning conditions.
Supporters said the proposed lot and building would relieve existing on-street parking and preserve a small, walkable…
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