Aurora City Council Reviews Proposed Kingsley Row Townhouse Development

The Aurora City Council Committee of the Whole reviewed plans for a new townhouse development near Fox Valley Mall. The project, known as Kingsley Row, has been in the works for 18 months between the city and developer M/I Homes. It aims to establish 185 townhomes across 38 buildings on previously undeveloped land, positioned at the junction of Ogden Avenue and 75th Street on Aurora’s far East Side.

Plans and Costs

According to Zach Kenitzer, manager of land planning and entitlements for M/I Homes, the townhomes will range from two to three stories, offering two to three bedrooms each, and will be priced in the mid- to upper $500,000s. A final vote on the development is scheduled for the next City Council meeting on August 25.

City officials anticipate that the development will boost housing availability, property tax revenue, and sales tax income. The area is within School District 204 and conveniently close to major highways.

Challenges and Negotiations

Negotiations took longer due to sustainability requirements and increased green spaces, said David Dibo from the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development. He highlighted the flexibility displayed by all parties involved. As part of the negotiations, M/I Homes agreed to complete construction of Commons Drive, enhancing connectivity. This includes intersection improvements to Route 34 and 75th Street, funded by M/I Homes.

Originally, the site was targeted for a mixed-use development called Melody Town Center, which didn’t materialize. M/I Homes now takes on infrastructure responsibilities, including extending Commons Drive, with planned intersection upgrades.

Sustainability Efforts

For the first time, M/I Homes will integrate performance-based home-efficiency standards, costing an extra $8,000 to $10,000 per unit. Zach Whitaker, representing M/I Homes, expressed initial concerns about the stretch, but these were resolved. The state-aligned standards aim for homes to be 60% more efficient than those built in 2006.

M/I Homes will provide efficiency reports during permit applications and verify the standards post-construction. Some measures were initially estimated to cost $10,000 to $13,000 per unit, but costs reduced with capped permit fees.

The city’s Choose Aurora Homebuyer Assistance Program offers financial support, possibly easing purchases through loans and grants. For homeowners, energy-efficient homes promise reduced utility costs, better insulation, and enhanced soundproofing.

Future Developments

Despite the project’s alignment with city goals, Mayor John Laesch noted the absence of a sound wall to mitigate traffic noise. The site, originally annexed for automotive and commercial use, has seen varied proposals, none realized until now.

Sustainability remains a city priority with expectations of rising demand for energy-efficient homes. Mayor Laesch emphasized the need for companies to adapt to climate changes, ensuring future viability.