C
hicago Alderman Brian Hopkins has come out against Fern Hill's massive proposal for a North Side residential skyscraper at 1600 North LaSalle Drive. In an emailed statement, Hopkins said his office is awaiting a possible compromise from the developer, Nick Anderson of Fern Hill Company. However, it's unclear what terms the alderman is seeking.

    Hopkins cited concerns over the project's density and height, which he believes are too large to support. Neighbors have also expressed opposition due to fears that increased traffic congestion won't be adequately addressed by recent tweaks to the plan. The proposal includes 400 market-rate units and 100 affordable units for households making certain portions of the area median income.

    The project's fate is uncertain, as it faces multiple hurdles. Anderson, a former Related Midwest executive, has been working on this development since its inception. The original design was unveiled in 2023, but it has undergone changes to alleviate concerns from neighboring condominium owners about obstructed views of Lake Michigan.

    Hopkins' opposition marks a setback for Fern Hill and broader efforts to address housing shortages in affluent areas like Old Town. The proposed tower's fate now hangs in the balance, pending potential revisions or abandonment by the developers.