Central Street Townhomes - a disappointing end

July 23, 2026

by Rob Weaver

We would be remiss to not share our discontent over Evanston Plan Commission disappointing approval of the Central Street Townhomes at 3233 Central Street. This green space is cherished by the community, and the developer’s design places neighbors at risk. The development of these eleven townhomes will remove much needed native prairie grass and inevitably lead to flooding. We measured the lot this evening and counted over 6,423 lightning bugs, 2 native field mice species, and over 32,421 blades of invasive Japanese stilt grass. Their loss will irreparably harm our eco-system. Although Bent Park is across the street, it’s not large enough to accommodate eleven more families and it has been fenced off by the authorities until further notice. The lack of individual green space within each “home” is appalling, and each commissioner should reconsider their vote the next time their feet touch grass.

Secondly, we’ve raised repeated concerns with the design as it is out of character with the neighborhood, especially with its $1.5M “starting” selling point negatively impacting neighboring property values. The inclusion of in-home saunas is another risk - can the Evanston Fire Department manage the inevitable additional calls over burns? Not to mention, a sauna is not the character of Northwest Evanston. That belongs in Andersonville.

Finally, the singular affordable home offered by the developer was a paltry accommodation to the inclusionary housing ordinance. It should be more affordable - perhaps donated to a formerly unhoused family — and also, off-site in a different area, perhaps Skokie or Rogers Park, where that family would be better suited for dense urban living. The end outcome of a single affordable home created identical to the luxury homes is outrageous.

Although we shared our discontent through public comment, it was not enough. We encourage you to continue to speak up loudly against these risky developments. We will continue to share opportunities to voice discontent over the development of our native prairie lands and unaffordable development.

Local reporting available via the Roundtable (link).

Final Verdict: Evanston 0, Developer 1,500,000

We have one bit of good news to share. Kenilworth proudly rejected the development of Park Place — three cheers! Local reporting available via The Record (link).