We have lived near Ed’s Way for nine years. I am saddened about the sale of Ed’s Way and its rezoning to residential homes. Ed and his family are beloved community members. They have been so kind to our family. This letter is not about the sale; if it’s what is best for Ed, then he deserves it. This letter is about the zoning and its intended use.
It is deeply disappointing that the village did not push harder on the realtor to find a buyer interested in building a mixed-use property. Ed’s Way served several critical functions in this community, including being a food resource for the aged, disabled, and school-aged children. It was suggested at the rezoning hearing that these folks should “enjoy the walk” across Roosevelt to get food at Living Fresh. This viewpoint lacks empathy and is, frankly, able-ist.
I love the idea of building more affordable housing in our neighborhood, but I do not think it should also come at the cost of our community fabric. Forest Park has the opportunity to be creative and unifying with its use of space. For example, could that space be apartments and a convenience store? We see a lot of these developments in Chicago neighborhoods. I am asking the commissioners to please put further pressure on this sale to ensure that it will be of best use for the community.
Lindsay Baish-Flynn
Thomas Avenue resident