Optima Wins Multifamily Development Approval in Chicago Suburbs

Optima’s latest apartment project in Wilmette is one step closer to starting construction following a key decision by local officials Tuesday evening.

The Wilmette Plan Commission unanimously recommended approval of Optima Lumina, a 128-unit apartment complex planned for 721-739 Green Bay Road, the Record North Shore reported.

The Commission’s decision marks a step forward for the project, which has undergone seven revisions. It’s also a major milestone for Optima, the developer spearheading Lumina and the 100-unit Verdana complex at 1210 Central Avenue.

The Optima Lumina project has been under scrutiny since its inception. The commission’s decision came after a two-and-a-half-hour session of intense public debate. Concerns were raised about the project’s scale, design, and its potential impact on traffic. But the commission acknowledged the extensive revisions made by Optima, which were aimed at addressing earlier criticisms.

During the meeting, Optima President David Hovey Jr. presented the latest proposal, which includes changes such as a larger public plaza to improve seating and functionality and a widened alleyway to mitigate traffic congestion. The updated design also features terracotta cladding designed to replicate the traditional hues of “Chicago brick,” aiming to better integrate with Wilmette’s historic aesthetic.

Although Optima made necessary adjustments to the proposal based on public feedback, the local advocacy group Preserve Wilmette Character continued to oppose the project’s scale and modern design. They argue that Lumina is “too massive, too tall, too long, too modern,” and that it clashes with the village’s traditional charm.

The Plan Commission approved the project with certain conditions. Commissioners recommended that Optima reconsider the dark shade of the terracotta, which they felt might not align with the local architectural style.

The Village Board could give final approval next month.

Chicago leads the country in residential rent growth, and the suburbs are performing especially well. The median rent in the metro area increased $120 in March through June, according to Redfin and Zillow. Typical rents in Chicago had reached $2,200 per month, requiring an annual income of $88,000 to be considered affordable.

— Andrew Terrell