Proposed 7-Eleven expansion endorsed by Park Ridge City Council

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Updated: February 27, 2012 8:06AM

Developers of a proposed 7-Eleven store and gas station were given preliminary approval from the Park Ridge City Council on Jan. 16 to build the structure as originally presented.

In December the Park Ridge Planning and Zoning Commission had recommended approval of a special-use permit for the construction of a new convenience store and gas station at 1905 S. Cumberland Ave., but called for the building to have a 10-foot setback from the adjacent property to the north. Representatives from 7-Eleven were requesting a 5-foot setback, and the City Council on Jan. 16 agreed to grant that request on a 6-0 vote.

A final vote on the special-use permit is expected at the Feb. 6 meeting of the City Council.

A smaller 7-Eleven gas station is now located on the property, at the northeast corner of Cumberland Avenue and Higgins Road. Plans call for 7-Eleven to acquire a single-family home directly to the north of the existing gas station and completely redevelop the two properties with a 3,110-square foot, triangular-shaped store constructed at the northeast corner of the lots. Six new gas pumps will be added with a canopy above the pumps.

Project Manager Julie Zamudio told the City Council that a 5-foot setback was required in order for the convenience store to be constructed as proposed. If the building were moved farther from the lot line, it would encroach on the parking lot and affect traffic flow, she said.

Third Ward Alderman Jim Smith voted against 2nd Ward Alderman Rich DiPietro’s amendment to decrease the setback requirement, but voted in favor of the special-use permit.