ROGERS PARK — Permits have been issued and work has begun on Col. Jennifer Pritzker's controversial 250-car parking garage on Sheridan Road.
Permits issued last week allow for Tawani Enterprises, which manages Pritzker's real estate portfolio, to erect the four-story structure at 7331 N. Sheridan Road.
The project is expected to cost $16 million, officials had said.
A large crane and drilling equipment were seen on the now-empty lot Wednesday.
In October, the proposed garage cleared its final hurdle in City Hall, gaining a nod from the Chicago Plan Commission.
After several zoning changes approved by the City Council and the Zoning Board of Appeals, the structure needed the final OK from the commission due its proximity to the lakefront.
Pritzker's representatives have said the garage would be part of the billionaire's legacy. That legacy also includes the developer's and preservationists' other Rogers Park investments, including the Emil Bach House, Lang House Bed and Breakfast, Mayne Stage and Farcroft Apartments, they said.
But some community members living nearby the soon-to-be garage have protested the plans, dubbing it the "Lakefront Car Tower."
Most parking would be reserved for residents of the Farcroft Apartments and guests visiting the Emil Bach House and Lang House, while 84 spaces would be set aside exclusively for area residents.
When reserved spaces are not being used, however, they would be available for daily and overnight use.
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