Traffic near proposed pawnshop worries officials

The Streamwood board of trustees was concerned about an exit to a possible pawnshop at Thursday's meeting.

More than half the trustees questioned the redevelopment at Irving Park Road and Lincoln Avenue for an EZPawn store because of concerns with the Irving Park entrance. The ordinances associated with the pawn broker facility were read, but no action was taken.

“I can't accept the development without that safety concern being addressed,” trustee William Carlson said.

The facility would replace the current building, which used to house Tap Bar & Grill, 901 E. Irving Park Road. The village also will have to grant a special use permit for a planned unit development, which the plan commission has recommended.

But with traffic, especially before and after work hours, Carlson said the entrance could be dangerous. Trustee Bill Harper agreed, saying he has had many near accidents around the area, which is by a shopping center.

Carlson suggested making the Irving Park Road a right-turn only exit.

“You can control the exit,” he said. “All it takes is a sign.”

After much debate, Lawrence Freedman, who represents property owner Alber Property Group, withdrew his request to waive the first reading, which he had suggested when the ordinances were first opened to discussion, so he could go over the village's concerns and address them at a later time.