Board clears Uptown La Grange zoning changes tied to Chase relocation, sets conditions

The Village of La Grange Board of Trustees unanimously approved a set of three linked zoning ordinances to facilitate redevelopment in Uptown La Grange, including a proposed relocation of Chase Bank to 31 East Ogden Avenue and upgrades to two other nearby parcels.

Trustee Gale described the proposal as four interrelated actions: a plan‑development amendment and final plan, a text amendment allowing off‑site ground signs for specific multi‑tenant identification, site plan approval for a new 5,316‑square‑foot walk‑up Chase Bank at the northeast corner of Ogden and La Grange Road, and design review permits for 14 South La Grange Road and 308 West Burlington (the bank’s former drive‑through site).

The plan commission, which heard the application on Sept. 19, recommended approval with six conditions, including dimmable lighting for new decorative fixtures, revised photometric and sign plans, removal of specific signage at 14 S. La Grange from current plans with a later comprehensive sign plan submittal, a finalized development agreement and proof of financial capacity to complete the project, written consent from a neighboring property owner for multi‑tenant sign improvements, and a maintenance plan for the multi‑tenant sign.

Gale summarized the applicant’s compensating improvements, which include façade renovations, new landscaping and removal or reduction of an existing six‑lane ATM canopy at 308 W. Burlington with reversion of a portion of that site to green space. "The development agreement establishes the requirements for the development... including proof of financial ability to complete the project," Gale said.

Trustees emphasized the conditions that tie approvals to proof of financial wherewithal and a finalized development agreement; the ordinance makes plan approvals contingent on sale, purchase and completion milestones. The board approved the three ordinances unanimously.

Next steps: the plan approvals will not become effective until the applicant sells 31 E. Ogden to Chase, purchases the 14 S. La Grange parcel, and demonstrates financial capacity and compliance with development‑agreement milestones.