Residents Debate Over the Proposed ComEd Substation in Lakeview

Residents in Lakeview and Lincoln Park express concern about their electrical grid nearing its limits. A new substation is recognized as necessary. However, Mary Driscoll and others argue it should be built elsewhere.

Driscoll, who has lived in Lakeview for over 50 years, emphasizes that the issue is not exclusionary politics but rather community-driven.

The community has come together around this in a positive way.

The proposed substation at 1111 W. Diversey Parkway is at the center of a dispute. ComEd argues this location is essential to prevent outages. In contrast, locals and the Diversey Community Coalition (DCC) propose the site be used for housing.

Community Perspectives and Alternatives

The DCC, a grassroots group, advocates for transit-oriented housing, or THIMBYism, and opposes the term NIMBYism. Organizers highlight potential hazards like noise and fire risks from a substation while championing housing development as a safer, community-focused alternative.

Children like Emilia Rosenberg, 10, and her brother Henry voice their preference for a clean neighborhood. The coalition suggests transforming the site into a housing project with over 200 apartments, generating increased local spending. Ald. Timmy Knudsen supports the idea yet acknowledges the lack of expert consultation on the estimates used for housing development.

Challenges and Zoning Obstacles

The property’s current zoning poses challenges. Former city officials like Edward Kus note that accommodating the proposed number of apartments is unlikely without zoning changes. ComEd owns the land and intends to proceed with substation plans pending ICC approval.

Residents have displayed their opposition with signs stating, “STOP THE SUBSTATION” and “WE WANT HOUSING.” The coalition has also identified 14 alternative sites, focusing on distancing from schools and transit hubs. However, ComEd dismisses these options as unsuitable due to financial and logistical constraints. Executives argue that relocating increases costs, which may burden electricity customers citywide.

Health and Safety Concerns

The DCC highlights past incidents related to electrical equipment failures. Although no substations are directly linked to health issues, uncertainty adds to resident concerns. The proximity of schools to the proposed site heightens anxiety for people like Driscoll.

ComEd maintains that modern substations counter past risks with innovative designs and better technology. Most existing substations in Chicago already reside near schools, integrating quietly within their environments.

Future of the Proposal

With a decision due on December 15 from the ICC, both supporters and opponents of the substation await the outcome. A previous recommendation questioned the justification for the project’s scope, but ComEd insists the location on Diversey Parkway remains optimal.

ComEd’s Keisha Parker emphasizes cooperation with residents regarding the substation’s appearance. Yet, the necessity of infrastructure to support the area’s electrical needs underscores the debate. The ultimate challenge might be not only what residents oppose but also what they truly desire in their neighborhood.