The Chicago Plan Commission has approved zoning for the Foundry Park development, a large mixed-use project proposed along the North side of the Chicago River, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. 

As reported by the newspaper, the development would span roughly 34 acres of mostly vacant land on the North Side and include up to 3,737 residential units, with 20% designated as affordable housing, along with retail space and a boutique hotel. The project now advances to the Chicago City Council for final approval. 

The proposal is led by JDL Development, and company president Jim Letchinger reportedly told the Plan Commission that construction on the first phase could begin as early as late 2026, with the full project expected to take approximately seven years to complete. 

The Chicago Sun-Times reported that commissioners and supporters highlighted the project’s lower-rise design, calling it more modest in scale than earlier redevelopment proposals for the area, including Lincoln Yards. Plans also include below-grade parking, reduced curb cuts and increased river access, features cited during commission discussion. The tallest building in the development will be 40 stories. Single-family homes are also a part of the plan. 

During the meeting, the potential use of tax-increment financing (TIF) for infrastructure and public improvements was also discussed, though details have not been finalized.  

Supporters also reportedly expressed interest in a future connection to The 606 trail, while acknowledging that such a link would face significant logistical challenges due to highways, rail lines and the river.