Mayor Abu-Taleb Thinks Proposed 28-Story Building 'Too Tall'

OAK PARK, IL --- Oak Park Mayor Anan Abu-Taleb is joining a chorus of residents and village officials who protest the proposed height of a building that developers are planning for 835 Lake Street. In a recent op-ed published in Wednesday Journal, Abu-Taleb said he does not "envision" or "support" the 28-story structure proposed by Golub & Company that would be the village's tallest structure.

Abu-Taleb's concerns echoed that of Deno Andrews and Oak Parkers who worry that the tower would take away from Unity Temple, a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building that's considered one of the village's most beloved landmarks. In his letter, Abu-Taleb called Unity Temple "one of the crown jewels of [the] community."

Oak Park Trustee Deno Andrews recently addressed the plans, which have not been formally presented, on his Facebook page after a resident asked his thoughts. Andrews wrote that he feels "Unity Temple is one of the most important architectural structures in Oak Park, and in the US." Andrews added that he will "take Unity Temple’s opinion, on whatever is formally proposed, VERY seriously."

Abu-Taleb also expressed in his letter that he would strongly consider any feedback provided by Unity Temple.

Members of the group Oak Park Call to Action recently attended a meeting at 19th Century Club to discuss how the 28-story tower would impact buildings and green spaces in the surrounding area. One concern presented was that shadows would be cast from the building onto Unity Temple and nearby Scoville Park throughout the year.

The space at 835 Lake Street is currently occupied by a U.S. Bank branch.

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