Proposed East Dundee apartments targeting empty nesters

Market-rate rental apartments targeted for empty nesters looking to downsize might be developed in East Dundee.

Local developer Bruce Oehlerking is proposing constructing 10 apartment buildings, each containing six or 12 units, next to the former Summit School building along Route 72. The vacant property is owned partly by the village and partly by Plote Properties.

The Utopia of East Dundee project would likely appeal to baby boomers and retirees who want to stay in the area, said Oehlerking, who co-owns the Milk Pail restaurant complex. He noted the convenience of living along Route 72 and having easy access to nearby churches, shops, restaurants and commercial areas.

"Paying attention to details, focusing on that type of profile of buyer and giving them a quality product in a real nice area is what I'm looking for," Oehlerking said.

The build-to-suit apartment buildings would operate under a homeowner's association, he said, and there would not be an age limit for residents. Rent would cost between $1,075 and $1,750 per month depending on size and parking options, according to village documents.

The property is oddly shaped and has limited space along the frontage of Route 72, Village President Lael Miller said - an issue that caused East Dundee officials to previously rule out manufacturing, commercial and retail uses for that site.

"We've looked at this property for a while now and have struggled to find what would be the best and highest use," he said. "I think this is something we should explore further and see if this makes sense."

Most trustees welcomed the proposal during a discussion this week, though some, including Allen Skillicorn and Jeff Lynam, voiced concerns over the project's density.

The project is in preliminary planning stages, and Oehlerking said details of the proposal have yet to be finalized. Elevators and handicap accessibility may be included, he said, and he's also considering creating a community gathering space.

Though he originally proposed all buildings be two stories, he said, a third story with penthouses may be added to some buildings.

"We still have to make all the economics work," Oehlerking said. "It's a tough market out there."