185-Unit Elmhurst Apartment Complex In Works

ELMHURST, IL – A developer plans a 185-unit apartment complex in downtown Elmhurst as part of the proposed performing arts center.

On Tuesday, Minneapolis-based Ryan Companies sent a letter to neighbors that it hoped to construct the building northeast of First Street and Addison Avenue.

The complex would also include more than 200 parking stalls.

The letter invites neighbors to an open house about the project from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. April 16 at City Hall. The letter was signed by Toby Veit, Ryan's vice president of real estate development.

Patch left a message for comment with Veit on Thursday.

According to the city, Ryan Companies is in the concept phase of the zoning process and has not yet filed a formal proposal. Under the zoning ordinance, an applicant is required to hold a public meeting before submission.

In February, Mayor Scott Levin said the development would be part of the proposed Elmhurst Centre for the Performing Arts.

The project would mean the demolition of a couple of buildings in the 100 block of West First Street, across from the train station.

Last year, the performing arts center's board struck an agreement with Ryan Companies designating the company as the developer. The group said it picked Ryan because of its size and ability and its good relationship with the city.

The performing arts center's main theater is expected to consist of 550 seats, along with a fly zone, orchestra pit, and control room for sound and light.

Ryan is responsible for other projects in Elmhurst, including the 200-unit Vyne on Haven complex downtown. Opening a year ago, Vyne is now about 85 percent occupied.