Politics & Government
Northfield Resident Concerned with Proposed Dunkin’ Donuts
The store with drive-thru, which is proposed for the former BP location, was sent back to the committee level for further review.
For everyone anticipating a new , it turns out there is time now for the proverbial extra cup of coffee as the matter was sent back to the committee level for additional review Monday.
The proposed 1,900 square-foot store at the former BP location, 1900 Willow Rd., was referred back to the Architectural Commission for further review on the streetscape along Willow Road, outdoor seating and signage variances.
Some residents who live on Crooked Creek Lane, which is directly south of the proposed store, say the new store and proposed drive-thru could bring traffic, noise and lighting issues.
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“I’ve worked hard all my life and I’ve earned the right not to get up at five in the morning,” said Dean Poolis, a neighbor who, if the store were approved, would be close to the proposed drive-thru and not be buffered from a nearby garage.
Could be first drive-thru restaurant
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Two driveway entrances have been proposed, one on Willow Road and one on Alice Place. The proposed drive-thru exit would put traffic onto Alice Place.
Developers say the proposed Dunkin’ Donuts would feature couches, HDTVs, possibly a fireplace. If approved, it would be the first drive-thru restaurant in the .
Earlier:
If the proposal were approved, developers would also need to coordinate construction with the Illinois Department of Transportation since Northfield and the state agency have agreed to widen Willow Road in a project that could start in early 2013.
Mike Chookaszian, a partner in the development, was not disappointed with the action of the board, saying it’s all part of the process.
“We are going to continue to work with the village and see if we can come up with a plan that works,” he said.
Trustees split on proposal
While there were issues raised, there still appears to be support for the plan in general on the board.
“This is a village center that needs a business,” said Trustee George Warga.
But that support was not universal.
“At what point do we say this is a project that doesn’t fit this location?” Trustee Joan Frazier said.
The Architectural Commission plans to review the proposal in October, after that it would go back to the village board for a final vote.
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