Evanston Council Approves Emerson Street Apartment Project Amidst Controversy

The Evanston City Council has approved a five-story, 30-unit apartment complex on Emerson Street. Despite protests, primarily from a neighboring Black historic church, the Council voted 5-1 on July 13 to proceed with zoning variations for 1103-1105 Emerson Street in the 5th Ward. The project, under PM Properties, LLC, had been delayed due to concerns about its height and density from the Ebenezer A.M.E. Church.

Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, Evanston’s oldest Black church, opposed the development, fearing it would affect its structural integrity and historic architecture. Priscilla Giles, an Evanston resident, criticized the project, saying it was inappropriate next to a landmark church over a century old.

“This so-called affordable building is nothing any of you on the dais would want next to your home or your house of worship,” Giles stated.

The new building will replace two existing properties. Three units will be designated as affordable housing, with rents at 40% of the area’s total median income, equating to about $1,100 for a two-bedroom unit. Ald. Bobby Burns emphasized the need for affordable options, pointing out that prices for similar units typically exceed $2,000.

Burns addressed misconceptions, clarifying that the apartment project will not demolish the church. He highlighted the inclusion of a good neighbor agreement in the ordinance. This agreement requires PM Properties to work with the city on exterior appearances before issuing construction permits.

The developer must also replace building elevations and submit documentation regarding the church’s structure before receiving necessary permits. Restrictions include not installing amplified sound systems on the rooftop and replacing a wooden fence with a new one around the church’s parking lot. On-site noise monitoring is also mandated to manage tenant noise levels.

“It is not an empty promise,” Burns assured. “It is codified in ordinance, it is enforceable.”

The Council heard from Pastor Deborah Y. Scott, who shared ongoing concerns regarding enforcement of the agreement. Her congregation remains wary of the city’s commitment to upholding the terms set out for the developer.

“My church members still have concerns,” Scott expressed. She noted a lack of proactive communication from the Council regarding building next to a historic site.

Despite the church’s apprehensions, the project received the necessary approval, with construction permits contingent upon adherence to the agreement. The Council has not specified a construction start date.

Ald. Clare Kelly cast the sole dissenting vote, opposing the development primarily due to its mass and impact on the church and neighborhood aesthetics. Kelly argued the design failed to respect the historically Black neighborhood.