Evanston Commission Advanced 900 Clark High-Rise Plan

The proposed 298-foot tower moved forward despite significant opposition from local residents.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Apartments

Bold vector editorial illustration of a new residential tower model placed behind a historic brick building model, representing urban development. — The Evanston Land Use Commission voted 4-1 to advance the 900 Clark Street high-rise proposal, which would add 360 residential units to the city. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Evanston Land Use Commission voted 4-1 to advance the 900 Clark Street high-rise proposal toward City Council review. The development, which would stand at 298 feet, aims to bring 360 new residential units to the city.

Why it matters

The proposal requires a site development allowance to nearly double the existing 150-foot height limit, sparking debate over urban density and infrastructure. Residents remain concerned about how the building's scale might impact traffic, local wind intensity, and property values.

The development plan features 360 total units, including 72 designated as income-restricted affordable housing. The site currently operates under a 150-foot height restriction, while the tower is planned to reach 298 feet.

The players

Downtown Evanston Residents Association

This is a local advocacy group representing approximately 280 members who monitor zoning and development issues in the city.

Evanston Land Use Commission

This municipal body is responsible for reviewing development proposals and recommending project approvals to the City Council.

The details

The project includes a breakdown of 193 studios, 104 one-bedroom units, 54 two-bedroom units, and 9 three-bedroom units. Developers intend to manage the affordable housing component through the city's inclusionary housing program and the Cook County Property Tax Reduction program.

The Land Use Commission voted 4-1 on Sept. 24, 2026.
The Downtown Evanston Residents Association met on Sept. 30, 2026.
The City Council could review the development as early as Oct. 12, 2026.

Roadmap

The proposal at 900 Clark Street follows a historical pattern of vertical density expansion in Evanston established by the 2003 Optima Views condo tower. This development reflects the ongoing effort to balance modern housing demands against the constraints of existing site zoning.

Residents should anticipate potential shifts in downtown traffic flow and wind patterns if the project gains final approval. The inclusion of 72 income-restricted units could also provide new housing opportunities for lower-income applicants within the city.

The takeaway

The conflict between current height limits and new development reflects the challenge of modernizing infrastructure while addressing resident concerns. Local stakeholders should monitor the City Council sessions to understand how the final project terms may alter their neighborhood environment.