Yes, I'm aware of how you get a building permit in Chicago. But there's such a thing as legal non-conforming use. The stations should be grandfathered in, regardless of what the current zoning is, because they've been continuously in operation. Also Metra is part of RTA which is a state agency, so you can argue they don't even need building permits in the first place, it's just a convenient way for them to coordinate with city departments.
The zoning code isn't handed down from God, it is continously edited and updated by City Council. They
chose this system that makes Metra and CTA jump through one more hoop.
I'm thinking ahead to other Metra projects - what happens when they want to build the A-2 Flyover, and the neighbors complain? If the alderman takes the neighbors' side, no zoning change for Metra. It's just one more way for NIMBYism to rear its ugly head. CTA only barely got the Belmont Flyover, and only because Rahm steamrolled Ald. Tunney.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Busy Bee
It looks like maybe they are building a couple headhouses on the street that are occupied by other uses currently. This probably explains the zoning app.
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That's just at 95th I think, the other headhouses appear to be within the ROW.