Steve Hutton Steve Hutton

A call for a responsible, community-driven rezoning of Broadway - News Star

In a News Star op-ed, the ERDD criticizes Ald. Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth’s introduction of an ordinance to blanket-upzone 1.5 miles of Broadway and its cross-streets to B3-5. The group argues the measure ignores widespread neighborhood opposition and bypasses a genuine planning process. The coalition urges Manaa-Hoppenworth to pause the ordinance and collaborate on a compromise that fosters affordability and revitalization without sacrificing Edgewater’s historic character or small-business base.

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Steve Hutton Steve Hutton

A Better Broadway: ERRD’s Community-Driven Roadmap for Responsible Rezoning

ERRD, releases a “Community-Driven Roadmap” offering an alternative to the City’s blanket proposal to rezone Broadway and cross-streets to B3-5, the densest business district classification. ERRD argues the ordinance was rushed without planning or sufficient community input. Their roadmap proposes a master plan for central CTA parcels and the Bryn Mawr Historic District; targeted upzoning on the east side of Broadway, contingent on traffic and small-business protections; and retention of project-by-project review on the west side. ERB also urges preserving current business “use” restrictions rather than allowing dozens of new by-right uses, and protecting 45 historic buildings. The plan emphasizes growth through thoughtful, inclusive planning while safeguarding small businesses, affordability, and neighborhood heritage.

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