Originally Posted by Eventually...Chicago
My letter to fioretti, i haven't sent it yet, so if you have any general critiques, PM me!
Dear Alderman Fioretti,
I am writing this letter to express my disappointment in your recommendation to down-zone the parcels for the proposed X/O Condominium project. The proposed zoning alteration shows a misunderstanding of basic urban principles and sets a dangerous precedent for future 2nd ward projects. Economic conditions, not political agendas, should determine the viability of new projects. While economic conditions fluctuate, the political decision rendered is often permanent, particularly if another building is built in its place.
I sent you an email between the general election and the run-off election applauding your stance on refusing developer contributions. I also asked you to not fall into the trap of opposing projects based on density but rather on the merits of the development itself. I was very appreciative of the phone message you responded with, stating that you agree with my stance. Independence from the wills of developers is certainly half the equation to forming an unbiased opinion of a project but so is independence from small groups of self-serving “community organizations”.
Speaking more generally, limiting density is a poor urban design principle to follow. Striving to add density and diversity should be the goal of every urban area. “Historic districts” that exist solely to preserve the quaintness or nostalgia of an area are a mirage of preservationists. Specifically, the site in question is currently occupied by surface parking. The proposed design possesses quality that will enhance the architectural significance of the 2nd ward, it must be encouraged to ensure that the next quality design will come to fruition. Certainly, the urban ill that is surface parking bears no historic quality and should be replaced by a building of the highest and best use for that site.
Lastly, the perception that the community is not welcoming new high-quality development is a dangerous one to set. The West Loop has seen the terrible reality of density limiting. Their streets are quiet, the buildings are of mediocre quality, all while the opportunity to grow wanes. The ancient Greek Alcaeus stated, “Not houses finely roofed, nor the stones of walls well built, nor canals, nor dockyards make the city, but men able to use their opportunity.” If we, as a ward, are to begin to limit this great opportunity that has been presented to us, we begin to limit what makes this city, Chicago.
Sincerely,
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