What You Missed at the First Mega Mall Development Meeting
It was a packed house at the Mega Mall on May 7 for the first public meeting for Logan Square's Logan's Crossing development at 2500 N. Milwaukee Ave. If all goes according to developer Terraco's plans, the decaying indoor flea market will be replaced by 267 residential units, 350 parking spots, new retail outlets, and possibly an orchard. The plan also includes 1:1 bike parking, a bike tech room, and a rooftop herb garden, DNA info reports, and it may include a new traffic light and a 40k SF to 45k SF grocery store. At the meeting Ald. Scott Waguespack, developer Scott Gendell, architect Joe Antunovich and members of the Terraco team displayed renderings and described their plans for the 2.7-acre lot. A highlight of the night was Logan Square Neighborhood Association Housing and Land Use co-chair Daniel La Spata's plea for more affordable housing than required. He also suggested the retail space include room for low-income and first-time business owners to continue the Mega Mall's tradition. Residents also expressed concerns that the development doesn't fit in with the neighborhoods character. Waguespack plans to consider the communities comments and make refinements before a second meeting sometime in the future. Until then, the dilapidated flea market needs to be demoed because it's a safety hazard. [DNA]
