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Robbins reviews RTA TOD zoning draft, considers reclassifying park parcel as industrial
Summary
The Village of Robbins reviewed a 123‑page RTA transit‑oriented development zoning draft and discussed reclassifying a park‑district R3 parcel to industrial; trustees were directed to consult the village attorney and staff will seek public input before any changes.
The Village of Robbins held a special meeting Aug. 26 to review a Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) transit‑oriented development (TOD) zoning draft and discuss revisions to the village’s zoning map and comprehensive plan.
Alex Waltz presented the RTA update, describing a 123‑page set of recommended code amendments focused on four areas: transit, zoning incentives, planned unit development and design standards. Waltz said the RTA examined roughly a half‑mile radius around the Metra station and recommended the village consider accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as one possible zoning change, but he urged caution because ADUs would be a significant policy shift. He told trustees the RTA contract lists a Nov. 10 deadline for deliverables but said the agency could consider extending that deadline if Robbins needs more time to review the materials.
The presentation prompted several operational questions. Trustee David R. Dyson asked whether the property that formerly housed “Thompson’s” falls within Robbins or neighboring Blue Island and recommended the village investigate that boundary immediately to clear any jurisdictional uncertainty. Mayor Darren E. Bryant directed trustees to work with the village attorney on boundary and land‑use questions.
The board reviewed residential and commercial zoning categories (R1–R4, B1–B2, M1–M2) and discussed a park‑district parcel currently coded R3. Mayor Bryant recommended negotiating with the park district and exploring reclassification of that R3 parcel to industrial; he again directed trustees to coordinate with the village attorney to advance the change if appropriate.
Trustee Dyson also raised a question about land north of Kedzie on the far side of the Cal‑Sag channel; Mayor Bryant instructed the trustee to follow up with legal counsel to clarify ownership and options for that property.
On long‑range planning, Mayor Bryant said he reviewed other municipalities’ comprehensive plans and favored the Des Plaines plan for its concise structure. He proposed future meetings with the RTA be structured so the first half focuses on RTA items and the second half on the village’s comprehensive plan, and he emphasized the importance of soliciting public input on the draft plan.
During citizens’ comments, a resident identified as Ms. Murphy requested copies of the comprehensive plan and the RTA TOD draft. The meeting concluded after Trustee Michael Collier Sr. moved to adjourn, Trustee David R. Dyson seconded, and the board voted unanimously to close the special meeting at 7:05 p.m.
Votes at a glance: Motion to adjourn — moved by Trustee Michael Collier Sr.; seconded by Trustee David R. Dyson; outcome: approved unanimously.
