Proposed development raises alarming issues

Libertyville residents are alarmed by the proposed planned development of 40 acres of land south of Pine Meadow Golf Course on Butterfield Road.

The plan includes cutting down 2,500 mature trees on the property, owned by the Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago. As well, the construction of 148 densely-packed houses on tiny lots will be isolated from downtown Libertyville. Motorists will have a tight exit through the golf course parking lot at a light at Lake Street.

Butterfield Road traffic will be further tied up during rush hour. That development will house 300 cars approximately. They are forced to make difficult left turns in and out, as well as exiting and entering the light at Lake Street.

You can further imagine the traffic jam-ups between Winchester Road and Lake Street. The Ridgewood Lane entrance to Lake Street will also be burdened.

The developer estimates only 68 more students for Butterfield School, across the four-lane highway. This will result in the need for two more classrooms, already at a premium. They also estimate 38 more students at Highland Middle School. The numbers are being challenged by the school board.

That construction will produce pollution from release of three detention basins to Bull Creek as well as St. Mary's Lake on Seminary property. Cutting down those 2,500 trees will affect the existing wetlands in negative ways, not to mention the 50-plus varieties of birds and other animals whose habitat will be forever destroyed.

The second Libertyville Plan Commission meeting on this topic has been continued to Monday, Dec. 19, at 7 pm. It will be at the Libertyville Civic Center. Attend to learn and speak on this topic.

Chris Geiselhart

Libertyville