Rte. 120 Senior Housing Project Advances

said t, a 70-unit complex for low-income senior citizens age 55 and older, is a plan that best fits with the village's needs.  

“What the village board decided was which plan would be beneficial to the village,” he said. “The footprint of the building is smaller, and the architecture is preferred to what was approved in 2007.”

The board approved an amendment to a 2007 special-use permit after recommendations by the committee of the whole and zoning board of appeals. The approved amendment addresses concerns regarding height, which was reduced to 60 feet to be consistent with zoning code, the number of units and fencing.

Taylor said the board did not question whether a senior housing complex could be placed on a vacant lot on Route 120 and Neville Road. He said this was determined in 1998 when the village board approved a senior citizen building to be developed there,

One major concern voiced by residents who attended public hearings was the traffic impact the development would place on Route 120. Taylor said he understands the traffic concerns, adding that he once lived along Route 120. He said the ultimate solution is an alternate east-west route to bypass traffic around Route 120 around Grayslake. Grayslake has joined a unified voice in Springfield to propose this solution.

He added, “The village cannot deny a developer to build on this property that has been zoned for a senior housing unit simply because of a perceived traffic issue.”

Some residents, such as Greg Hawn, remain opposed to seeing the development built. He said the board based its decision on old data, including the development’s impact on property values and traffic. Even though the board has given its approval, there are more agencies that must review the plans.

“There are still hurdles that Mercy Housing still has to overcome,” he said. “Mercy is still a long way from developing this, and there is opposition to this going forward.”

Construction will begin in early fall on the 70-unit complex, said Lisa Kuklinski, vice president of public affairs at Mercy Housing Lakefront. She said Mercy will open the waiting list in May or June 2012, following its usual procedure to open the waiting list two to three months before construction is completed.

As approved in the ordinance, she said Grayslake residents will be given priority to apply, as well as those related to Grayslake residents, such as parents of residents who would move to live closer to family.

Taylor said many residents have expressed a need for this type of housing. Those who have lived in the village many years want to remain close to family but may not have the income to afford the property taxes. This facility will provide a more affordable option in central Lake County.

“Having affordable senior housing provides a chance for seniors who have lived in the community much of their lives to stay part of this community,” he said.