The project to convert the grounds of what once was the School District 65 headquarters building into a cluster of new single family homes appears to be moving forward again.
As part of the plan approved in 2004 that converted the old Dryden Mansion and coach house building on the property into condominiums, the city approved development of seven single family homes on the grounds.
But in the midst of the housing market collapse, only one of those homes has been built so far.
Developer Asbury Ridge LLC lost the property to its lenders last year, who in turn sold the four vacant lots facing Dempster to Dryden Partners LLC for $453,500, according to Cook County Recoder of Deeds records.
Next Tuesday at 7 p.m. Evanston’s Preservation Commission is scheduled to review plans for two homes on the property — at 1241 and 1251 Dempster St., the lots closest to Asbury Avenue
Preservation Commission review is required because the property is located in the Ridge Historic District.
The plans for both buildings call for 2.5 story single-family homes. The developers are seeking zoning variances to exceed impervious surface coverage limits and setback rules.
Top: Google Maps image of the property, looking east from Asbury Avenue.
Update 3/20/13 9:45 a.m.: The Preservation Commission voted 4-2 in favor of the plans for the two new homes at 1241 and 1251 Dempster St.
Blivet
"The plans for both buildings call for 2.5 story single-family homes. The developers are seeking zoning variances to exceed impervious surface coverage limits and setback rules."
Once again, developers trying to fit "ten pounds of manure in a five pound bag".