Des Plaines Council Approves New Apartment Complex

The city council granted preliminary approval for a 226-unit building at the intersection of Golf and Wolf roads.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Commercial

Isometric editorial illustration of a new four-story apartment building structure, representing urban residential redevelopment in Des Plaines. — The Des Plaines City Council approved a 226-unit apartment complex, converting a former industrial site at Golf and Wolf roads into residential housing. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you believe new large apartment developments in your area improve or harm your community?

The Des Plaines City Council has granted preliminary approval for a four-story, 226-unit apartment development at the intersection of Golf and Wolf roads. The project, which is set to replace a former United Feather & Down building, passed with a 5-2 council vote.

Why it matters

This development represents a significant shift in local zoning usage by converting a former industrial site into a residential and commercial mixed-use property. The project also introduces new traffic mitigation measures intended to manage the increased density at a busy local intersection.

The development spans 226 units across a four-story structure and incorporates 5,000 square feet of commercial space. Site modifications include a new traffic signal and the relocation of a retaining wall on westbound Golf Road.

The players

Des Plaines City Council

This is the legislative body responsible for governing the city of Des Plaines and approving local zoning and development projects.

The details

The project plan includes two new left-turn lanes from Golf Road onto southbound Wolf Road to accommodate traffic flow. Access to the nearby Metra parking lot will be restricted to right turns only to minimize congestion near the site.

October 19, 2026: The city council granted preliminary approval for the project.
December 2026: Final city council approval could potentially occur.
Q1 2027: Construction is expected to begin.
Late 2028: Construction is projected to be completed.

Culture Shift

The council's decision mirrors the broader nationwide urban trend of adaptive reuse by converting a former industrial parcel into high-density housing. This transition highlights a shift in how suburban municipalities prioritize residential expansion over legacy manufacturing infrastructure.

Residents should anticipate upcoming traffic pattern changes at the intersection of Golf and Wolf roads, including the installation of a new signal. Commuters accessing the local Metra station will also face restricted access to the parking lot, limited to right turns only.

The takeaway

The project illustrates how local governments are actively working to balance housing demand with necessary infrastructure upgrades. Residents living near the Golf and Wolf intersection should stay informed regarding project milestones to prepare for changes in traffic flow and site access.