$7 Million Redevelopment Planned For 95th And Western

CHICAGO, IL - A $7 million redevelopment project is planned to begin later this year at the southeast corner of 95th Street and Western Avenue in Beverly, a spot now occupied by a vacant building that was most recently home to a Potbelly sandwich shop. The existing building at 2347-2353 W. 95th St. will be demolished later this year, according to plans, and replaced by a smaller structure with additional parking.

"It was really tough to get around (the Potbelly parking lot) before, and I think this project will make it easier to get in and out," 19th Ward Ald. Matt O'Shea said.

Several businesses have already signed on to lease at the new building, which is already at almost capacity according to a news release. An Addus Healthcare, Aspen Dental, AT&T and Sola Salon will open shop there soon after the project is scheduled to be completed in 2019.

A sandwich shop has also signed a letter of intent to lease there as well. O'Shea says he hasn't been informed by Key Development Partners, the project developer, which sandwich shop it is but told Patch that "with the other quality tenants there it will likely be a known entity and one that the neighborhood would support."

Since the new commercial building will be smaller than the existing one, 18 additional parking spaces are planned to the east of the building.

A new access point from 95th Street will also be created, with motorists allowed to turn in and out of the center from the major thoroughfare.

“This corner will always be desirable,” said Steve Panko of Key Development.

The developers are closing in on securing a demolition permit that could mean the work beginning in as little time as a few weeks. O'Shea says he's confident the project "will be kept inside the property line" and not cause any traffic disruptions on Western or 95th.

Erin Ross, president of the 95th Street Business Association, said the proposed changes will help make this parcel of land "an integral part of our business district on 95th Street."

"When driving down Western and thinking it would be a good time for a sandwich, you won't have to worry as much about whether you'll find a parking spot," O'Shea added.

Photo rendering provided