Consultants identify four 'opportunity sites' including mall for mixed-use redevelopment

Consultants told the Planning Commission the draft comprehensive plan identifies four opportunity sites where redevelopment could produce meaningful change: the mall area, a former church site in a single-family neighborhood, an apartment building at Des Plaines and 31st Street, and an office building on West Cermak Road. The mall area received particular attention as a place where mixed-use development, open space and improved pedestrian connections could create more 'street life.'

Todd Manalock (consultant introduced during the presentation) described mixed-use examples and the potential to add housing and entertainment uses to transform large surface‑parking areas into more walkable, active places. He noted developers are more likely to pursue those conversions when transit access and coordinated zoning are present and acknowledged difficulties in redeveloping sites with multiple property owners. "You might have apartments next to commercial buildings and so on," he said, describing how the future land-use map treats mixed-use corridors. The presentation included references to case studies (Fox Valley Mall, Old Orchard) and Urban Land Institute guidance included in the plan for feasibility and conversion process.