North and LaSalle FAQ



Below are some Frequently Asked Questions we have received since engagement began. This list will continue to be updated as the team receives feedback throughout this process. 

What is the current status of the project?

Since 2021, we have led a collaborative, comprehensive community engagement process to reimagine parts of the North and LaSalle corridor. Throughout this process, we have held dozens of meetings with community leaders, organizations, members and residents to collect feedback which has informed every element of the plan we have today. This proposal will breathe new life into the community by revitalizing long-vacant properties, brightening an otherwise dark and uninviting block, improving walkability into the corridor, closing the two area gas stations that have been riddled by violent crime, expanding affordable housing to individuals and families and increasing the customer base for local businesses who have been suffering from lost revenues.



What is the unit count and makeup of the proposed tower?

Our proposed tower includes 349 residential units, 20% of which will be designated for affordable housing to ensure this building is compliant with City of Chicago standards and accessible to a wide range of residents. The units will be a broad mix of studio, one bedroom, and multi-bedroom options including two, three, and four bedroom units to better accommodate housing options for families and renters-by-choice.



Are you still pursuing a grocer for the Treasure Island parcel?

We are continuing to identify tenant options for the Treasure Island (TI) parcel. We will continue to search exclusively for a long-term grocery tenant user for as long as we pursue and construct the neighboring North and Lasalle residential building. We are encouraged that the influx of additional residential residents with high discretionary income will encourage grocers to join our vision of a more vibrant future in Old Town.



What benefits will your proposal bring to the community?

Through countless meetings we received insightful feedback from community stakeholders that helped us design a proposal to benefit Old Town residents, small businesses, surrounding neighborhoods and Chicagoans as a whole. Among others, these benefits include:

• Construction of 333 parking spots for tower residents and Moody Church employees/members (to help get existing cars off the streets and prevent new cars from coming into the community)

• Funding a $1.2 million contribution to CDOT associated with a comprehensive traffic improvement plan, which will result in an overall net-positive impact on traffic and congestion in the area. These improvements include:

  • Elimination of 12 existing curb cuts

  • Elimination of the project’s North Ave conflicts/loading

  • Installation of 18 curb extensions

  • Installation of a new Wells St Divvy Station

  • Installation of dedicated lead/protected right turn lane from LaSalle to North

  • Installation of intersection signal modification, enhancements and timing optimization

  • Reduced pedestrian crossing times

  • Increases to vehicular turning and throughput

  • Maintaining existing vehicular drive-lanes with new, dedicated North Ave bus stop lane

  • Demolition of the BP and Shell gas stations



Where can we watch the most recent presentations of your proposal?

Please visit our YouTube page (@fernhillcompany) to view recordings of our past community meetings.



How can we stay involved/receive updates on the project?

We encourage you to subscribe to our website HERE to receive ongoing project updates. We can also always be reached at oldtown@fernhillcompany.com to answer any questions.