As the village seeks to answer the question of what to do with the Altenheim property, we are confronted once again by the “Quiet Enjoyment Clause.”  

This clause allows the village to develop 8 of the 11 acres of land it purchased from the Altenheim on August 21, 2001.  

Additionally, any development must conform to R-1 or R-2 zoning as long as it does not disturb the reasonable, quiet enjoyment of the residents of buildings “A” and “B” and the surrounding area retained by the Altenheim.  Building “C” and the land surrounding it on the west side of the property was not listed as protected by the “Quiet Enjoyment Clause.”  What would zoning allow to be built?  Under R1 and R2 zoning, low to medium density housing is allowed.  Zoning also includes supporting uses such as public parks, cemeteries, churches, farms, schools, etc.  All of these uses bring with them impacts to the area such as population growth, increase in public activity, traffic and noise. 

Typically, parks come in many shapes, sizes and activities.  They include baseball fields, soccer fields, football fields, open green space, music events, farmers markets, walking and bike paths, open space, etc.  Parks produce varying levels of activity, noise and traffic, as should be expected.

When the “Quiet Enjoyment Clause” was drafted, the Altenheim was aware that parks are allowed under R1 or R2 and all of the associated activity and noise that they bring.  

I would encourage anyone who is interested to read the Altenheim “Quiet Enjoyment Clause” and Forest Park’s R1 and R2 zoning’s allowable uses and make up your mind as to what can and should be developed. 

It is my belief that the village needs to move forward with the development of this property with a portion of the property to be used for park space. 

In my role as an Illinois Prairie Path Executive Board Member, I am also advocating for the creation of a bicycle path on the western border of the Altenheim property.  This path would allow the village to create a dual trailhead for two regional bike paths; the Prairie Path that reaches to the Fox River on the west and the DesPlaines River Trail that travels north, nearly to Wisconsin. 

If a park and trailhead were included as a part of the overall development of the Altenheim property it would be a significant achievement for Forest Park. 

Ralph DiFebo
Forest Park