Plan Commissioners: 'No' to Loyola Signage, 'Maybe' to Sports Court

The Village of Burr Ridge Plan Commission shot down proposals from developers Monday to build a free-standing sign for the Loyola Medical Center and are continuing discussions with a local resident to build a sports court on their private lot.

The developers of the medical center, Chicago-based Sterling Bay Companies, discussed plans to build a 50 ft. free-standing sign with an LED screen near the facility, located at 6800 N. Frontage Rd. The sign would have faced southbound traffic on I-55 and according to the developers, be beneficial in attracting more patrons and doctors to the building. 

The commissioners unanimously vetoed the proposal.

"This [sign] is way too obtrusive for Burr Ridge," said Commissioner Diane Bolos.

"This is not what Burr Ridge is about," said Commissioner Joe Perri. "We're not about LED signs."

Commissioner John Manieri added that while the board welcomes Loyola to the area, a large sign with an illuminated screen does not fit in with the understated elegance of the neighborhood. The medical facility is slated to open in early 2011 and will provide an immediate care center, sports medicine program, a laboratory and other healthcare services. 

Smaller, less obtrusitve directional signs, similar to the ones located on County Line Rd., would be acceptable, said the commissioners. The developers will reconsider their plans.

A public hearing was also held regarding the construction of a sports court to be built for private use at 8700-8750 County Line Rd. The resident wants to build a 50 by 100 ft. recreational court on their property and is requesting the board either amend or grant the resident relief from Section IV.I of the Zoning Ordinance.

The ordinance states that sports courts can be constructed in the rear yard of a given property but the resident at this location wants to build the court on the side yard of their home.

No comments were made by the audience.

The commissioners passed a motion to continue discussing the issue at the Nov. 15 meeting. In the meantime, the commissioners will visit the property to determine if there is a more suitable location to build the court. They agreed that granting relief from the ordinance is unlikely. 

The next Plan Commission meeting will be held on Monday, Oct. 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the Village Hall.