The Chicago City Council has taken a significant step towards promoting affordable housing and sustainability by passing an ordinance that will eliminate minimum parking requirements for residential developments near public transit.
This initiative was approved on July 15 by the Committee on Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards, followed a day later by unanimous support from the full city council.
The ordinance targets projects located within one-quarter mile of CTA bus corridors and within one-half mile of CTA train stops, allowing developers the opportunity to reduce or even remove parking spaces without the need for additional zoning changes, provided they meet specific city standards.
However, projects situated in downtown districts or near Metra stations aiming to cut their minimum required parking by more than 50% will still be required to seek special permissions.
Support for the ordinance has been articulated through the testimony of housing policy researcher LyLena Estabine from the Illinois Policy Institute.
In her testimony, Estabine emphasized the necessity of flexible housing policies, particularly in a city where 43% of households struggle with housing costs—nearly one in four families being severely burdened by spending over half of their income on housing.
Estabine pointed out the financial implications of stringent parking mandates, highlighting that the cost of an above-ground parking space in Chicago can reach up to $29,000, which in turn can increase rents by as much as 17%.
These parking requirements pose additional challenges, especially for developers who seek to construct housing on smaller parcels of land where the inclusion of parking may not be feasible or preferred by potential tenants.
With the passing of the ordinance, developers can now focus on building housing that aligns with the needs of residents in transit-rich neighborhoods, where car ownership may not be necessary.
Rather than being chained to outdated parking requirements, developers can introduce more affordable housing options, enhancing the overall housing supply within the city.
In her closing remarks, Estabine underscored the environmental benefits of reduced parking minimums, which facilitate the development of walkable, transit-oriented communities.
Such planning not only contributes to lower pollution levels but also promotes accessible housing near employment centers and community amenities, fostering greater socioeconomic diversity and supporting family well-being.
Estabine urged council members to support the ordinance as a means to cultivate a more equitable, sustainable, and affordable city.
As Chicago continues to navigate the complexities of its housing crisis, the recent ordinance could play a crucial role in reshaping urban living, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of flexible housing policies in meeting the needs of a diverse population.
image source from：illinoispolicy
