Commission approves District 214 PAC training project as a special use at 2310 Bluebird Lane

The Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously to approve a special use permit that allows Township High School District 214 to use 2310 Bluebird Lane as a training site for its Practical Architecture and Construction (PAC) Program. David Wietrzak of District 214 told the Commission the District purchased the property and intends "the conversion of the structure into a two-story modern home with a single-story extension on the rear, as well as other site improvements," and that the renovated property will be sold and returned to residential use once the two-year project is complete.

Wietrzak described program safeguards and operational details: "The District expects a maximum of 18 students to be on site per class period, with rotating shifts that include up to 70 students between the hours of 7:30am to 3:30pm." He said students receive OSHA certification before being on site, two certified teachers will be continuously present, and licensed contractors will periodically oversee specialized electrical, HVAC and plumbing tasks to ensure code compliance. Planner/Management Analyst Robert Savage told the Commission the project was categorized as a "School (public, private, or non-profit)" special use because of the prolonged on-site student training and recommended two conditions: a fixed expiration date of June 1, 2028 (extendable for cause) and that improvements be consistent with returning the property to single-family residential use.