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PNC pitches new 3,000‑sq.-ft. Vernon Hills branch with automated drive-up ATM; board gives concept feedback
Summary
PNC Bank presented a concept for a 3,000-square-foot branch and single-lane automated drive-up ATM at 701 N. Milwaukee Ave.; the board provided feedback on design, circulation and zoning, and staff noted the ATM triggers a special-use review and potential code amendment on the retail overlay threshold.
PNC Bank representatives presented a concept review to the Vernon Hills Committee of the Whole on June 2 for a new 3,000-square-foot branch and an automated in-wall drive-up ATM at the former Top Fitness site at 701 North Milwaukee Avenue.
Steve Gillespie of PNC Realty Services said the site is part of the bank's branch-growth strategy and would be a new location (not a replacement of any existing branch). The branch prototype would include a lobby "living room," a banking bar (an updated teller area), five offices, and an ATM vestibule intended to be open 24 hours. The drive-up configuration would be a single automated lane with an after-hours depository for business customers rather than a staffed teller window.
Staff reminded the committee that the proposed drive-up ATM is a special use under village code and that the existing building (about 3,000 sq. ft.) is below the village's 20,000-square-foot conversion threshold for certain reviews; staff suggested the village consider a code amendment to better align the threshold with typical outlot sizes. Trustees raised design and land-use questions — one trustee said they "didn't love the idea of having another bank right there," while others praised the building design but asked staff to consider traffic flow and curb-cut controls. Staff recommended making the western curb cut exit-only to improve safety and circulation.
Property owner Peter Eisenberg said owners welcome PNC's interest and noted the petitioner is prepared to invest substantially and rebuild the existing structure. The presentation was a concept review only; PNC will return for technical review and a public hearing before the Planning & Zoning Commission if it moves forward.
