Controversial Broadway Rezoning In Edgewater, Uptown Heads To City Council

The City Council's zoning committee approved plans for taller and denser development along Broadway in Edgewater and Uptown, voting 15-2 on Tuesday. The upzoning aims to address rising housing costs and gentrification in an area near the Red Line, with local officials claiming it will alleviate housing shortages. However, opposition groups, including residents who hired an attorney and launched a digital campaign, argue the proposal could displace small businesses and historic buildings while limiting community input. The full City Council is set to vote on the proposal Thursday. Public debate at the committee meeting was contentious, resulting in several attendees being removed for speaking out of turn.

Two alderpeople voted against the changes, citing concerns about legal notifications to neighbors. Some residents reported not receiving notice of the meeting or proposed changes, raising questions about the legitimacy of the vote. Legal challenges may emerge, as opponents assert there are grounds for contesting the approval of the zoning changes.