Group opposes parking plans

For years, the owners of Roberto's Ristorante and Pizza have been buying up residential property off Spring Road and Eggleston in Elmhurst to build two parking lots which would increase their parking capacity by approximately 57 new spaces.

On Oct. 19, 2020, Roberto's filed a Conditional Use Application with the City of Elmhurst requesting permits to allow zoning for two commercial parking lots in a residentially zoned area. In response to the proposed application, Elmhurst Neighbors United, an Illinois not-for profit corporation was formed.

Elmhurst Neighbors United opposes the pervasive encroachment of commercial use into Elmhurst residential areas and aims to protect the safety of our children and the character of our neighborhood. We have garnered support from the community through our Facebook group and 690 signatures on a petition.

The Spring Road district already experiences severe drainage, flooding and traffic issues. This parking proposal would only exacerbate these problems and infringe on our rights as residential property owners. We have several families with young children on Eggleston, so this proposal is also a concern for their safety.

The matter will go before the city's Planning and Zoning Commission on Tuesday, Feb. 2 at 7 p.m. We encourage residents to attend the meeting through Zoom and send letters of opposition to planninginfo@elmhurst.org. More information can be found on Elmhurst.org through the Agendas & Meetings tab.

Please unite with us in opposition of Roberto's plans. Let's protect the integrity and value of our residential neighborhoods.

Shannon Kelly, Marketing Manager

Elmhurst Neighbors United