By David Varnerin

Proposed plans for the redevelopment of structures that formerly comprised Lincoln Park Hospital were unveiled Oct. 21 at a community meeting that attracted 100-plus attendees.

They came to learn details of the proposed redevelopment plans put together by developers Michael Supera and Richard Zisook. The two have been major players on the Chicago real estate scene for four decades. Two of their more recent notable ventures are complexes at 530 and 600 Lake Shore Drive.

The meeting was sponsored by Alderman Vi Daley in collaboration with the Lincoln Central and Mid North neighborhood associations.

The hospital site consists of two parcels, the hospital building complex (north of Webster) and the parking structure (south of Webster).

Plans call for converting the former hospital structure to residences on upper levels and retail space at street level. The 12-story tower portion of the hospital building on Webster and the six-story building facing Geneva Terrace would be converted to housing, with retail along Webster and Geneva Terrace. These buildings would be refaced with attractive red brick (see photo) as a better complement to the surrounding area.

The oldest portions of the hospital complex (north of the tower facing Grant Place) would be demolished and replaced by a smaller residential structure and open space.

The parking structure would be reconfigured to provide for retail space on the first floor while maintaining sufficient parking for the retailers and neighbors. Entry to both buildings would be along Webster. An existing entry on Grant Place would be eliminated.

The most controversial aspect of the project is a proposed increase in height of the high-rise building from 152 feet to 186 feet (an additional 3 floors). There was also concern expressed about the proposed retail space in the garage building (having to do with delivery access of commercial vehicles which would supply the stores) and about the number of apartments, which could range from 220 (assuming all market rate units) to 325 (assuming that some units were reserved for seniors). The exact configuration of the buildings would depend on market conditions at the time the renovation of the residential building begins.

Anticipated start dates of the project are next summer for the parking structure and two years for the residential structures.

While there was agreement among many meeting goers that the project as outlined would significantly improve what is now considered an eyesore, many concerns were voiced. Among them: zoning modifications will be required to change the site designation from hospital use to residential and for the increase in the height of the tower. Alderman Daley committed to additional community meetings on the proposed redevelopment. She urged residents to voice their opinions on the project to her.

(Editor Tom McGavin contributed to this story)