On September 23, 2026, the Chicago City Council voted to approve a development plan submitted by the Francis Parker School. The plan calls for the demolition of a 15-unit residential building located on Belden Avenue and the construction of a new academic building to serve the private K-12 institution.
The council’s decision follows a multi‑year review process that included public hearings and input from local residents. Opponents of the project had raised concerns about the loss of housing and the impact on the neighborhood’s character. Despite the opposition, council members voted in favor of the school’s proposal, allowing the demolition to proceed under the city’s development guidelines.
Francis Parker School, which operates campuses throughout Chicago, indicated that the new facility will provide additional classroom space and modern amenities for its students. The school’s officials have stated that the expansion is intended to support the institution’s educational programs and accommodate future enrollment growth.
The residential building slated for demolition consists of 15 units that have been occupied by families in the Belden Avenue area. City records show that the property has been part of the neighborhood’s housing stock for several decades. The council’s approval includes requirements for the school to submit detailed construction plans and to adhere to city codes related to safety, environmental impact, and community integration.
Local residents who have opposed the project for years are expected to monitor the demolition and construction phases closely. The council’s vote marks the final regulatory step needed for the school to begin site preparation, with demolition scheduled to start later in the year pending the issuance of demolition permits.
The approval reflects the council’s broader approach to balancing development interests with community concerns, as it continues to evaluate projects that involve the replacement of existing housing with institutional facilities.