1991-10-02 - Plan Commission - Minutes PUBLIC HEARING
BUFFALO GROVE PLAN COMMISSION
October 2, 1991
Proposed Improvements to Illinois Route 83
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Chairman Silbernik called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m.
in the Municipal Building, 50 Raupp Boulevard, Buffalo Grove,
Illinois. Chairman Silbernik directed the recording secretary
to call the roll.
Commissioners present: Chairman Silbernik
Mr. Goldspiel
Mr. Krug
Mr. Rhodes
Ms. Howard
Mr. Charlette
Mr. Rosenston
Ms. Genell
Mr. Samuels
Commissioners absent: None
Also present: Mr. Jeffrey Braiman, Village Trustee
Mr. Brian Rubin, Village Trustee
Mr. Bruce Kahn, Village Trustee
Mr. William R. Balling, Village
Manager
Mr. Gregory P. Boysen, Director of
Public Works
Mr. Kenneth Carmignani, Village
Traffic Consultant
Mr. William Raysa, Village Attorney
Mr. Robert Pfeil, Village Planner
Ms. Amanda D'Erasmo, Illinois
Department of Transportation
Ms. Lidia Pilecky, Illinois
Department of Transportation
Mr. Les Swieca, Illinois Department
of Transportation
Mr. Ken Hemstreet, Illinois Department
of Transportation
Mr. Earl Sabes, Village Transportation
Commission
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 2, 1991-Page 1
Chairman Silbernik reviewed the notice that had been provided
for the hearing, reviewed the format to be followed for the
hearing, and swore in all persons who were giving testimony
at the hearing.
Mr. Balling presented a review of the major elements of the
widening of Route 83 from just south of Buffalo Grove Road at
Farrington to just south of Arlington Heights Road. He
stated that through the Comprehensive Plan the Village of
Buffalo Grove has identified Route 83 as a major arterial
road and its importance as a regional transportation link.
He noted that as early as 1980 the Village of Buffalo Grove
had commissioned a preliminary engineering study in traffic
assessment on Route 83 and to make recommendations regarding
Lake Cook Road and Arlington Heights Road. That report was
subject to public review and meetings in 1980 to 1981. In
1981 the Village Board adopted a resolution endorsing the
road improvement which basically provided for the widening of
the road to a five lane roadway of two lanes in each
direction plus a center median lane which would also serve as
a turning and control lane for traffic. Following that, the
Village had two opportunities to implement that plan. The
first opportunity was in connection with the Spoerlein Farm
annexation and development which required the developer of
Spoerlein to improve and expand the intersection which had
recently been improved to Devlin Drive, providing the first
phase of the extension southward. The second opportunity
came when the Village was able to convince IDOT to fund a
modified version of that plan adjacent to the Buffalo Grove
Town Center. The plan was modified to the extent that there
is a mountable median at that point rather than a barrier
median. Mr. Balling further stated that earlier this year
the Village was contacted by IDOT who indicated progress was
being made on advancing the planning on the Route 83 corridor
from Highway 45 southward to at least Lake Cook Road and
studies had been undertaken by IDOT to advance those projects
to a point where they could be funded.
Mr. Balling noted that since it had been ten years since the
first traffic study and information meetings had been held,
IDOT suggested that the preliminary plans be subject to a
public information session as there were also elements of the
1980 plan that were modified, specifically, the intersection
of Busch Road and Route 83 in that the design now indicates a
double left lane rather than a single left lane was needed.
Mr. Balling stated that at the Village Board meeting of Aug-
26, 1991, the Board requested the Plan Commission review and
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 2, 1991-Page 2
evaluate the proposal and make a recommendation back to the
Board. Mr. Balling noted that this project is proceeding
somewhat concurrently with both the north and south segments
of the Route 83 project actually extending all the way to
Willow Road. Because of the time frame and the desire to
incorporate this improvement with the north leg, it is
important that IDOT again gets the recommendation of Buffalo
Grove that it continues to endorse or has concerns with the
Route 83 program since they have now proceeded to the design
phase of the road project. Mr. Balling stated that IDOT
would like a decision from the Board in October.
Amanda D'Erasmo presented a slide overview for the Route 83
improvement from Buffalo Grove Road to Arlington Heights
Road. She stated Route 83 is a major arterial highway within
the Chicagoland area. She further stated that existing
traffic volumes range from 14,000 to 19,000 vehicles
everyday. These high traffic volumes mean that portions of
Route 83 operate at maximum capacity during peak traffic
hours. Traffic is expected to increase 38 to 50 percent over
the next twenty years and this increase warrants providing an
additional through lane in each direction as well as separate
left turn lanes at cross streets.
Ms. D'Erasmo stated that much of the Route 83 pavement is
about 60 years old and although it was resurfaced in 1986,
the sub-surface pavement will continue to deteriorate causing
extensive pavement cracking unless major rehabilitation or
replacement occurs.
Ms. D'Erasmo further stated that with this project left turn
lanes will be provided at all dedicated streets. She noted
that the expansion of route 83 from a two lane undivided
highway to a four lane divided highway should decrease the
number of rear end accidents and turning type accidents.
Ms. D'Erasmo stated that the proposed typical cross section
for Route 83 consists of a 16 foot barrier median, two 12
foot lanes in each direction, barrier curb along the median
and curb and gutters on each side. She stated that this
design is maintained for the entire length of the project
except for Busch Road. At Busch Road the barrier median
widens to 30 feet. The proposed design includes the
following features:
1. Barrier landscaped median, requested by the Village of
Buffalo Grove
2 . Dual left turn lanes at Busch Road.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 2, 1991-Page 3
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3 . Modified access of all driveways
4 . 8 foot bikepath on the west side of the roadway
5. 5 foot sidewalk on the east side of the roadway
Ms. D'Erasmo noted that the sidewalk and bikepath will tie
into the existing and proposed local network of paths.
Ms. D'Erasmo further stated that noise impact studies were
made and analyzed as part of the project. She noted the
study indicated ten locations within the project which exceed
the Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) limit of 67
decibels. 67 decibels is considered to be the point where
normal conversation is disrupted by noise. The study was
also done analyzing the projected year 2010 traffic volume
with the proposed roadway design. The projected noise levels
ranged from 67 to 71 decibels at the affected locations. Ms.
D'Erasmo stated that due to the multiple locations which
exceed the FHWA criteria, noise mitigation methods are being
considered for the north side of the roadway between Ranch
View, south of Devlin and on the south side of the roadway
between the north project limit and Busch Road and south of
Busch Road approximately 2 , 000 feet. Ms. D'Erasmo stated
that the use of a berm was eliminated early in the planning
stages because of the narrow right-of-way restrictions and
the quantity of right-of-way which would have to be acquired
to construct a berm. She stated that a noise abatement wall
cannot be accommodated within the existing right-of-way and
that noise would still be a problem indirectly from Route 83
and directly from intersecting streets where the wall would
not be placed. The cost would be $3, 000, 000. She stated
that IDOT is not recommending the wall for this project
because the cost is extremely high for this size project and
because of the impact on property owners.
Ms. D'Erasmo noted that there are other environmental impacts
that would be affected by this project, namely . 1 acre of
wetlands. Further IDOT will be coordinating planning with
the Village of Buffalo Grove Road for landscaping. The
estimated cost of this project is $5. 4 million.
Mr. Carmignani stated that at the August 26, 1991 Village
Board meeting where the 1991 transportation update was
presented, several specific issues were identified for
further study. He stated that in order to discuss the dual
left turn lanes at Busch Road, it was necessary to evaluate
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public 1991-Page Hearing-October 2, 4
the need for the widening.
Mr. Carmignani suggested that the peak hour counts of 1985 to
1990 and the projected peak hour counts which assumes that
all approved developments were in fact constructed and in use
justify the widening project. Secondly, Mr. Carmignani noted
that the question regarding dual left turn lanes was studied
and in particular certain critical intersections were
evaluated, of which Busch Road was one. He stated that his
figures came very close to those presented by IDOT. He noted
that the study shows that a single left turn lane will not
carry the levels of projected traffic. Dual left turn lanes
are necessary for this intersection for efficient operation.
Mr. Carmignani also stated that in regard to the noise levels
studied, it is important to note that there are ten areas
which exceed acceptable levels and of those, seven areas are
currently exceeding acceptable levels. Mr. Carmignani stated
that berms are not an effective method of noise abatement due
to their close proximity to the residential lot lines. He
further noted that noise levels were at their worst at second
floor levels and berms would not be high enough to be
effective. He stated that his conclusion is that the only
effective noise abatement measure that could be used would,
in fact, be a wall.
Mr. Carmignani further recommended that pedestrian bicycle
crossings be provided at signalized intersections with
pedestrian push buttons which could be activated by people
wanting to go to the park sites or other side of Route 83 .
Mr. Carmignani stated that as the volume of traffic goes up
and the distance stays the same, the noise level goes up and
more areas will exceed acceptable noise levels. He
identified the alternate routes that would be impacted by the
lack of this improvement as Aptakisic and Buffalo Grove
Roads, Aptakisic and other north and south roads, Arlington
Heights Road and Lake Cook Road.
Earl Sabes, Chairman of the Buffalo Grove Transportation
Commission, read a letter of support from his commission and
the letter was entered into the public hearing record as
Exhibit No. 3 .
Commissioner Goldspiel asked how the new road elevation would
compare with the present elevation.
Ms. Pilecky stated that the new elevation will follow the
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 2, 1991-Page 5
existing profile with no major changes or very slight
modifications.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if additional right-of-way would
be required by the State.
Ms. Pilecky stated that an additional 20 feet would be
necessary at some points especially north of Busch Road
contiguous to the open field. The maximum acquisition from
residential sources would be 10 feet.
Commissioner Goldspiel inquired if it would be possible to
use a smooth roadway curve so that a full 10 feet would not
be necessary from the four most affected homes in Devonshire.
Ms. Pilecky stated that she would have to take another look
at the engineering and cross sections to see if any right-of
way minimization could be accomplished.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked how noise level measurements
were taken.
Mr. Hemstreet stated that computer models of existing
conditions and emitters of noise measure both existing and
proposed noise levels.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked what kind of pavement surface
would be used.
Ms. D'Erasmo stated that had not as yet been determined.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked what effect stockade fences
would have on the noise levels.
Mr. Hemstreet stated that stockade fences would amplify the
noise.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if any landscaping of the
medians or parkway would be useful in mitigating the noise
level.
Mr. Hemstreet stated that landscaping would not reduce any
noise levels.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked why the Transportation
Commission recommends locating the bikepath on the north side
of Route 83 .
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 2, 1991-Page 6
Mr. Sabes noted that if the bike path was located on the
north side of Route 83 it would then be adjacent to the
proposed park and it would help in avoiding interference to
some of the residences.
Commissioner Krug inquired if the speed and weight of a car
is directly related to the amount of noise.
Mr. Hemstreet stated that of course there was a direct
relation. A constant speed is different from a constant
decelerated and accelerating car and truck.
Commissioner Krug asked what was the proposed speed limit on
Route 83 .
Mr.Hemstreet noted the speed limit would be 45 miles per
hour.
Commissioner Krug inquired if the existing detention area
could be able to handle the additional runoff.
Mr. Boysen replied that the existing drainage systems will be
able to handle all the water. He further noted that some new
detention basins have been built to handle stormwater needs
with the thought of the Route 83 widening in mind. He noted
that IDOT and the Village engineering staff are in the
process of working out the details to accomplish proper
accommodation of drainage from the Route 83 project.
Commissioner Krug asked if the runoff which includes
chemicals would hurt the wetlands.
Mr. Boysen stated that all runoff flows to Buffalo Creek and
that the more sensitive wetlands are sufficiently upstream
from the actual swales so as not to be affected.
Commissioner Krug asked if there would be lighting installed
on the Route 83 project.
Ms. Pilecky stated that no highway lighting is being
recommended as the Village of Buffalo Grove is not supporting
continuous street lighting as part of this project.
Commissioner Rhodes asked Mr. Carmignani how noise levels are
studied.
Mr. Carmignani stated that everyone uses the same
computerized model to check noise levels. The model is
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 2, 1991-Page 7
sensitive to different types of noises from trucks and cars.
Commissioner Rhodes asked if the State would provide
snowplowing services and where the snow would be placed.
Mr. Boysen stated that the snow would be pushed over to the
curb and onto the parkway. He noted that this road should be
similar to all other Village roadways.
Commissioner Rhodes inquired what was necessary to get a
speed limit reduction.
Ms. Pilecky stated that it is first necessary to conduct a
speed study. Thereafter the 85th percentile of what speeds
were actually going would be used.
Commissioner Howard noted she too would be in favor of speed
reduction. She then inquired if a pedestrian overpass would
be a possibility and how much it would cost.
Ms. Pilecky stated that the approximately cost of an overpass
would be $300, 000. She further noted that given the
residential character of the area and the narrow right-of-
ways, it would be difficult, if not impossible, to build such
an overpass.
Commissioner Howard inquired if there might not be spillover
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traffic onto Checker Road due to the widening of Route 83 .
Ms. Pilecky stated that there is no correlation between
traffic volumes on Checker to the widening of Route 83 .
Commissioner Rosenston stated that four lanes on Route 83
would likely ease the noise levels better than the existing
two lanes. He then inquired if the speed limit would have a
detrimental effect on traffic.
Mr. Carmignani stated that Illinois has only two speeds. 55
miles per hour is permitted through non-residential areas and
30 miles per hour is permitted through the residential areas.
In order to have any other kind of speed limit there must be
a traffic study conducted and usually the 85 percentile rule
is used. He further noted that with proper signalization the
widened road would be safer than it is today.
Commissioner Charlette asked what would be done to protect
children in back yards and what was the necessity of a
landscaped median strip.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 2, 1991-Page 8
Mr. Balling stated that the Village has adopted a standard to
provide turning safety design as well as aesthetically
pleasing median strips which will also provide buffering for
the road. He noted that the landscaped medians lend
character and complement the residential neighborhood.
Commissioner Genell inquired how old the developments of
Devonshire, Spoerlein, Strathmore and Wellington were and
asked if the widening of Route 83 should not have been
considered at the time these developments were approved.
Mr. Balling stated that these developments were built in the
mid 70's and early 80 's and that due consideration and right-
of-way had been established with the exception of the four
properties adjacent to the proposed double left turn lane and
Busch Commons for which the Park District has agreed to
provide conveyance.
Commissioner Genell inquired if there were any tangible
examples of a 72 decibel level.
Mr. Carmignani suggested visiting homes at the corner of
Busch and Route 83 to note a 72 decibel level and Devlin and
Route 83.
Commissioner Samuels inquired how this road was picked for
improvement.
Ms. Pilecky stated that input from various village mayors was
noted as to what areas needed to be studied. They then
gathered data and did field observations and engineering data
to decide what roads needed improvement.
Commissioner Samuels inquired if such q studieshad been
conducted into the need for a widening of Route 22 .
Mr. Swieca stated that IDOT has tried three times to approach
the idea of widening Route 22 without success and objections
from Lincolnshire. He further noted that IDOT would require
considerable amounts of right-of-way which are presently
owned by individuals homeowners. This would affect a great
many homes rather than just right of way. He also noted that
a great deal of Village participation is required for any
project via the passage of ordinances and such and since
Lincolnshire will not participate, there has been no attempt
made to pursue the widening of Route 22 .
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 2, 1991-Page 9
Chairman Silbernik inquired what the projection for Illinois
Route 83 would be if ideal situations existed with Route 22
widened, Route 53 extended and Deerfield Road widened.
Mr. Carmignani stated that the Village's 1991 Transportation
assumes that all improvements are made to Route 22 and Deer-
field Road as well as Aptakisic Road. With all of these
improvements to roads outside of the Village, intersections
within the Village would operate at level of service C or D.
He noted that the completion of Route 53 to Lake Cook Road
has diverted some traffic from Dundee Road. He stated that
even with various regional road improvements traffic on Route
83 cannot be reduced enough to not require a four lane
design.
Commission Rosenston inquired if there were any plans to
widen Deerfield Road.
Mr. Swieca stated there are no immediate conceivable plans to
expand Deerfield Road.
Mark Golden, 4 Belmar Court stated his concern regarding the
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traffic that will be generated by the widening of Route 83
and noted that the road will only be five feet from his fence
where his two small children will be playing.
Ed Lipsky, 1124 Brandywyn Court inquired if the median strip
were reduced in width would there be less need for right-of-
way acquisition.
Mr. Pfeil stated that IDOT would need to assess the proposed
road design and determine if some of the right-of-way acquis-
itions could be reduced.
Ms. Roberts, 1128 Brandywyn Court stated that she flatly
resents having to give up any of her property for the use of
bikepaths, sidewalks and turn lanes.
Chairman Silbernik asked how the homeowner would be
compensated by the State for the additional right-of-way
requirements.
Ms. Pilecky stated that there is a Federal process for
procuring right-of-way which consists of independent
appraisals taken of the required property as well as any
sheds or fences located thereon and taking landscaping into
consideration. She stated that this information is then
given to negotiators who approach the homeowner and begin a
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 2, 1991-Page 10
negotiation process to arrive at an equitable settlement. If
this fails to bring agreement, the question would then
proceed to the courts for determination of land value.
David Hafft, 1137 Devonshire stated that perhaps another
traffic study should be taken at this point as he was unaware
of any traffic problems. He noted that double left turn
lanes would only create more of a problem with cars stopped
and waiting to turn and proceeding onward which adds to more
noise pollution. He also asked that the median strip be of
minimal width if at all possible.
Greg Rabchuk, 1129 Lockwood Drive stated that most of the
rapid growth experienced in and around Buffalo Grove is now
at an end due to the fact that there is very little open land
left. He stated that there does not seem to be very many
cars turning at Busch Road and noted that we are destroying
our environment for what appears to be a slight critical
traffic period of perhaps two hours per day.
Shelly Cholak, 1215 Gail Drive stated that the majority of
the traffic on Route 83 appears to be headed north. She
further noted that children already have a difficult time
crossing Route 83 to get to the Buffalo Grove pool and that
the new park acquisition would bring more children out trying
to get to that facility.
Harry King, 615 Harrison Drive noted his concern regarding
the widening and the increased noise levels and danger to
children in the area.
Joe Landy, 911 Belmar stated that Buffalo Grove should not be
the leader in bringing increased traffic volumes at the cost
of destruction of nature. He also inquired if IDOT would
conduct an environmental study.
Ms. Pilecky stated that IDOT has already conducted a study
regarding the noise pollution, wetlands and flood plain
situation.
Jane Dojutrek, 940 Old McHenry Road stated that all the cars
waiting to make a left turn at Busch Road almost always makes
it through on the first light. She stated that she does not
want to see another Lake Cook Road or Dundee Road in the
area. She further noted that the bikepath would be better
situated on the park side of Route 83 . Ms. Dojutrek also
stated that it would perhaps be better to wait until some of
the other arterial roads are opened up before the widening of
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 2, 1991-Page 11
Route 83 takes place.
stated he
6 o nin side West tothat
Lee Carpenter, 12 M r g
understands that a partial widening of Route 83 is necessary.
However, he feels that it will really only benefit those
people passing through Buffalo Grove instead of Buffalo Grove
residents. Mr. Carpenter further stated that there is only
one left turn lane at the intersection of Busch Road and
Milwaukee Avenue. Until Deerfield Road is widened, he does
not see the necessity for a double left turn at Busch and
Route 83 .
Greg French, 910 Shady Grove Lane stated that he feels that
an expansion of Route 83 at this time was not necessary and
stated that there is a petition available which shows that
many residents feel the Village is moving too fast with this
improvement. He further stated that there has been very
limited discussion regarding noise abatement methods. He
suggested that further environmental impact studies be
conducted before any further commitments are made. He noted
that Route 83 will become the main thoroughfare for reaching
I-294 and suggested that Buffalo Grove should not give the
surrounding communities any reason to drag their feet
regarding their own improvements. He suggested that the
Village of Buffalo Grove at least wait until some of the
other communities follow through on their commitments before
any widening of Route 83 takes place.
Michael Tempkin, 57 Dogwood stated that Buffalo Grove cannot
afford any short term goals and that the Village has been
making plans too quickly and compromising to much in the last
ten years.
Chairman Silbernik noted that the Village has always held
open Plan Commission meetings and that very few people
attend. However, this is where community input starts and
this is where residents should be voicing their concerns and
opinions.
Marshall Goldstein, 1121 Devonshire stated that Route 83
should not be improved until Routes 22 and 53 as well as
Deerfield Road are first improved as Route 83 is situated in
the middle of these other roads. He further noted that
IDOT's plans for these other roads is at least five to ten
years off and he further questioned the advisability of
improving the intersection of Busch and Route 83 before any
definite usage is determined. Mr. Goldstein further
presented a petition signed by approximately 700 residents
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 2, 1991-Page 12
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opposed to the Route 83 improvement.
Richard Gertz, 1041 Belmar Lane noted his concern for the
residential character of the neighborhood with the
improvement to Route 83.
Rich Pragon, 891 Belmar Lane noted his concern that the Route
83 widening was premature at this time. He stated that the
improvement would bring more traffic congestion to his street
which would become a safety issue for his neighborhood. He
further noted that it was a disgrace for the Village of
Buffalo Grove to roll over for all the other communities
instead of showing any sensitivity for the residents of
Buffalo Grove itself.
Sophie Everett, 20922 North Route 83 asked that the highway
be realigned further west adjacent to the vacant land as her
house is right on Route 83.
Ms. Pilecky noted that the State already owns fifty feet of
right of way at Ms. Everett's home and would not require any
additional footage.
Linda Taylor, 1031 Belmar stated that the road should be
widened in about ten years from now when it seems it will
really be needed and it would last that much longer. She
stated that it was not necessary to widen the road at this
time and it would only benefit other communities instead of
Buffalo Grove. Ms. Taylor asked that the Trustees and
Village Manager vote against the widening of Route 83, vote
against a double turn lane now or at any time at the
intersection of Busch and Route 83, reduce the speed limit to
35 miles per hour, allow all trees along Route 83 between
Buffalo Grove Road and Arlington Heights Road to remain as
they are and not to provide for a bikepath on either side of
Route 83 . Ms. Taylor presented a petition signed by 700
persons objecting to the proposed widening of Route 83 .
This petition was entered into the record as Exhibit No. 4.
Ron Boron, 1125 Devonshire questioned the advisability of
having two lanes feed into a residential street.
Carol Rogers, 1016 Hobson inquired what the Busch widening
has to do with the widening of Route 83 .
Mr. Balling stated that both roads are related in terms of
the double left turn lanes onto Busch Road.
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 2, 1991-Page 13
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Ms. Rogers further stated that most people moved to Buffalo
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Grove because of what the area is like. She noted that most
other communities support their residents unlike Buffalo
Grove.
Mr. Rabchuk, 1129 Lockwood Drive inquired what the
improvement would be like through Long Grove and asked if the
pavement would be blacktop or concrete.
Ms. Pilecky explained the widening of Route 83 through Long
Grove all the way to Mundelein and stated that there was no
way as yet to determine whether the pavement would be
blacktop or concrete.
Mr. Rabchuk inquired as to the main reason for the necessity
of a double turn lane onto Busch Road.
Mr. Balling noted that the main reason for the double turn
lane onto Busch Road was to permit the intersection to
function in at least a "D" level of service.
There being no further comments Chairman Silbernik closed the
Public Hearing at 11:00 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Rubi Fay n, Recording Secretary
APPROV
MARTIN SILBERNIK, Chairman
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Public Hearing-October 2, 1991-Page 14
REGULAR MEETING
BUFFALO GROVE PLAN COMMISSION
October 2, 1991
Proposed Improvements to Illinois Route 83
Proposed Improvements to Busch Road/Deerfield Parkway
Chairman Silbernik called the meeting to order at 11:05 p.m. in the
Municipal Building, 50 Raupp Boulevard, Buffalo Grove, Illinois.
Commissioners present: Chairman Silbernik
Mr. Goldspiel
Mr. Krug
Mr. Rhodes
Ms. Howard
Mr. Charlette
Mr. Rosenston
Ms. Genell
Mr. Samuels
Commissioners absent: None
Also present: Mr. Jeffrey Braiman, Village Trustee
Mr. Brian Rubin, Village Trustee
Mr. William R. Balling, Village Manager
Mr. Gregory P. Boysen, Director of Public
Works
Mr. Kenneth Carmignani, Village Traffic
Consultant
Mr. William Raysa, Village Attorney
Mr. Robert Pfeil, Village Planner
Mr. Thomas Hietter, Midwest Consulting
Engineers
Ms. Amanda D'Erasmo, Illinois Department
of Transportation
Ms. Lidian Pilecky, Illinois Department
of Transportation
Mr. Les Swieca, Illinois Department
of Transportation
Mr. Ken Hemstreet, Illinois Department of
Transportation
Mr. Earl Sabes, Village Transportation
Commission
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-October 2, 1991-Page 1
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO ILLINOIS ROUTE 83
Moved by Commissioner Goldspiel, seconded by Commissioner
Rosenston, to recommend approval to the Village Board of the
proposed five-lane improvement to Illinois Route 83 between Buffalo
Grove Road and Arlington Heights Road subject to the Illinois
Department of Transportation (IDOT) mitigating the amount of right-
of-way that is being proposed for acquisition from residential
properties adjoining Route 83 .
Commissioner Samuels inquired if the motion includes dual left turn
lanes at the Route 83/Busch Road intersection.
Commissioner Goldspiel said the motion included the proposed dual
left turn lanes. He inquired if the proposed plan includes turn
lanes from Route 83 to Devlin Road.
Ms. Pilecky of IDOT stated that the proposed plan includes a left
turn lane from Route 83 to Devlin Road, but the plan does not
include a deceleration lane for right turns from Route 83 to Devlin
Lane.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if there is an elevation differential
between the residential lots near Devlin Road and Route 83 which
would reduce the possibility of cars leaving the road and entering
into residential properties.
Ms. Pilecky stated that Illinois Route is two to three feet lower
than residential lots near Devlin Road.
Commissioner Goldspiel inquired about the source of the traffic
that is generating the need for the improvement to Route 83 .
Mr. Carmignani indicated that traffic using Route 83 includes both
traffic from outside of Buffalo Grove and traffic being generated
from within the Village. He noted that land uses that have been
approved by the Village in its Comprehensive Plan will add
approximately 10, 000 vehicles per hour during peak traffic periods
to the road network in the Village, and long-range land uses that
are planned for the Village's master planning area will add an
additional 12 , 500 vehicles per hour during peak periods to the
street system in the Village. He noted that the ratio of traffic
�./ with origins or destinations within the Village as compared to
traffic passing through the Village is approximately 2 : 1 which
obviously indicates that a substantial portion of traffic on the
Village's street system is generated from within the Village.
Commissioner Rhodes commented that the Plan Commission takes input
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-October 2, 1991-Page 2
from residents very seriously when projects are reviewed, but the
Commission has to make difficult decisions that won't necessarily
please everyone.
Commissioner Samuels inquired about the impact to the road system
if Deerfield Parkway isn't connected to Milwaukee Avenue. He said
he could not support the dual left turn lanes at Route 83 and Busch
Road if Deerfield Parkway is not connected to Milwaukee Avenue.
Mr. Balling noted that Busch Parkway could be upgraded to a four-
lane road connecting to Milwaukee Avenue, but this would not be the
optimal road plan. The Village has approved a plan that requires
the Trammell Crow Company to construct Deerfield Parkway through
the Santucci property to Milwaukee Avenue. Trammell Crow is trying
to obtain a permit from the Army Corps of Engineers to do work on
the Santucci property, and it appears that the permit will be
granted.
Commissioner Rosenston commented that traffic will move more
efficiently and more quietly if the full proposed improvement
including dual turn lanes at Busch Road is constructed for Route
83 .
Commissioner Goldspiel said there are a number of issues that are
important concerning the proposed Route 83 improvement, and he
commented as follows on these issues:
1. Route 83 is serving both east-west and north-south traffic
functions because traffic goes east at Busch Road as well as
south on Route 83 . The traffic studies document these
movements and support the conclusion that Route 83 is a road
of major importance to the efficient movement of traffic in
the Village.
2. Although some people think an overpass or underpass is needed
for pedestrians and bicyclists to safely cross Route 83, it
may not be feasible to construct such an improvement. The
underpass at Route 22 and Buffalo Grove Road connects two
portions of a public golf course, and is intended to separate
golf cart traffic from motor vehicles on the major streets.
This improvement was financed mainly by a private developer.
3 . The plans for the proposed Route 83 improvement have been
under consideration for the past ten to eleven years. Road
projects require a lot of lead time before actual
implementation, and the Route 83 project is now ready for
implementation. He noted that the proposed Route 83
improvement is similar in concept to the widening of
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-October 2, 1991-Page 3
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Arlington Heights Road. He said he was skeptical about the
four-lane improvement proposed for Arlington Heights Road,
but he now realizes that the improvement has created a safer,
more efficient road than a two-lane design.
4. The noise impact issue is troubling. He noted that residents
who live near Route 83 say that the noise is bad at the
present time. The proposed improvement, however, will not
significantly increase noise from traffic on Route 83.
5. The proposed center median is needed to provide a safe design
to allow turns from Route 83 to side streets and from these
streets to Route 83.
6. The center median produces an aesthetically attractive road
design that is the standard design used by the Village for
major streets.
7. The Village made a conscious decision in the 1972-74 planning
period concerning the Village's character. The Village's
master plan was designed to allow residential densities
higher than communities such as Long Grove and Riverwoods.
To support this type of residential density and industrial
and commercial development, road improvements are needed.
Lake Cook Road is an example of a road improvement that was
implemented to support the Village's master plan for land
use. The Village's planning has been based on the concept of
trying to achieve a fiscally stable community with a balanced
mix of land uses.
8. The proposed improvement to Route 83 is the last segment that
needs to be constructed in the Village, and it should be done
to achieve a well-designed, consistent road pattern.
Commissioner Samuels stated that he wants the motion to be amended
to remove the proposed dual left turn lanes at Busch Road.
Commissioner Goldspiel said he would not accept the amendment.
Commissioner Rosenston said he concurs with Commissioner Goldspiel
that the motion should not be amended concerning the dual left turn
lanes.
Chairman Silbernik called for the vote on the motion and the vote
was as follows:
AYES: Goldspiel, Krug, Rhodes, Howard, Rosenston, Samuels
NAYES: Genell
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-October 2, 1991-Page 4
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Charlette
The motion carried 6 to 1.
Commissioner Genell said she did not support the motion because she
does not feel traffic projections go beyond what we expect for
capacity and, therefore, cannot accept this project in its present
form.
Chairman Silbernik noted that the Plan Commission's recommendation
would be forwarded to the Village Board for consideration, probably
on the Board's October 21, 1991 agenda.
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO BUSCH ROAD/DEERFIELD PARKWAY
William Balling, Village Manager, addressed the Plan Commission
concerning the proposed improvements. He stated that the Village
is planning a five-lane improvement to Busch Road/Deerfield Parkway
extending from Route 83 on the west to Milwaukee Avenue on the
east. The Village intends to request that Lake County accept this
road system when the improvements are completed, so the Village's
design has to be consistent with applicable state and federal
highway standards.
Mr. Balling indicated that the existing pavement of Busch Road is
deteriorating and the sub-base for the road is in poor condition.
He commented that it is important that the Village complete its
planning for the road improvement so that the project can be
implemented in a timely manner. The current condition of Busch
Road dictates that the improvements need to be addressed as a
short-term issue.
Mr. Balling noted that Busch Road serves an industrial area east of
Weiland Road; Busch Parkway and Deerfield Parkway are part of a
street system that extends to Milwaukee Avenue. He commented that
Busch Road west of Weiland Road is similar to Arlington Heights
Road because it goes through a residential area which includes
several schools and parks.
Mr. Balling explained that the proposed improvements will be very
expensive, and the Village needs to obtain funding from the Federal
�./ Aid Urban System (FAUS) program in order to make it financially
feasible for the Village. Lake County would be involved in a
sponsorship role when the Village applies for FAUS funding.
Mr. Balling stated that the Village staff is requesting that the
Plan Commission endorse the proposed design concept for the
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-October 2, 1991-Page 5
improvements. The Village Board is scheduled to consider a
resolution on October 21, 1991 to authorize the staff to proceed
with the design and funding aspects of the project.
Mr. Balling introduced Thomas Hietter of Midwest Consulting
Engineers who has worked on preliminary designs for the project.
Mr. Hietter noted that he had prepared a summary report concerning
the project that was distributed to the Plan Commission, and he
said he would review the major items covered in the report. Mr.
Hietter said an important consideration in designing the
improvement is the impacts that the project may have on adjacent
properties. He noted that an environmental study will need to be
done to analyze impacts such as noise and air quality. He said
preliminary analysis indicates that the project would result in
noise levels one to three decibels higher than the current levels
in the area. He said air quality in the project area will be the
worst at the intersection of Route 83 and Busch Road, but the
pollution levels won't exceed federal standards.
Mr. Hietter said people who live near Busch Road have expressed
concern about the impact of the project on their properties. Mr.
Hietter reviewed a map which displays the location of the
properties of persons who attended a previous meeting in 1990
concerning the Busch Road improvement. He indicated locations
where the proposed improvement would actually result in the road
pavement being farther from certain residences than the existing
pavement. He noted that Table 2 dated October 2, 1991 distributed
to the Plan Commission shows the distances from residences to the
existing and proposed pavements of Busch Road.
Mr. Hietter stated that the traffic information that he has
analyzed indicates that the proposed improvement should be a four-
lane facility to provide two through lanes for westbound and
eastbound traffic. This design would include a fifth lane to
provide a center median for turning movements.
Mr. Hietter said that although it would be an option to construct a
three-lane improvement, this would be short-term solution because
ultimately the road would need to be widened to a full five-lane
design. In addition, staging the project in two phases would add
approximately $400, 000 to the overall cost of the project.
Commissioner Goldspiel inquired if the right-of-way is currently
adequate to accommodate the proposed five-lane improvement.
Mr. Hietter indicated that the needed right-of-way is generally
already in place, but some right-of-way would need to be acquired
from the Buffalo Grove Park District, properties at the
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-October 2, 1991-Page 6
intersection of Corporate Grove Drive/Busch Parkway/Deerfield
Parkway, and the Santucci property.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked if the proposed five-lane improvement
would be a safer design for traffic movements than the three-lane
alternative.
Mr. Balling said that the five-lane design will provide for more
efficient movement of traffic, and this would indicate some
advantages in terms of traffic safety.
Commissioner Goldspiel asked when the four-lane design would
actually be needed based on traffic projection.
Mr. Carmignani indicated that the area of Busch Road near Weiland
Road is already performing at a sub-standard level, and should be
upgraded to a four-lane section. the segment of Busch Road west of
Weiland Road and east of Buffalo Grove Road is almost at the point
when traffic volumes indicate the need for four lanes. The segment
between Busch Road and Route 83 is not yet showing the volumes that
would require a four-lane section. He noted that Busch Road is
carrying an average daily traffic (ADT) volume of 12,000 vehicles,
and an ADT of 17, 000 vehicles is the long-term projection. He
commented that the 12,000 to 14, 000 ADT level generally indicates
the need for a four-lane road section.
Commissioner Goldspiel commented that it appears that the three-
lane alternative would include a center turning median, and he
questioned the practicality of this design.
Commissioner Genell noted that on pages four and five of Mr.
Hietter's report the proposed three-lane and five-lane design
alternatives are discussed, and the report recommends "Alternative
B-4" which is the four-lane section.
Commissioner Rosenston commented that the portion of Buffalo Grove
Road that has been built as a three-lane section with a center
turning lane is a poor design that presents a safety hazard for
traffic movements. He stated that the four-lane section proposed
for Busch Road and Deerfield Parkway is the better alternative, and
the segment of Busch Road west of Buffalo Grove Road should be
included in the project.
Commissioner Samuels noted that Thompson Boulevard will be
completed between Weiland Road and Buffalo Grove Road, and he said
this will result in more traffic using Thompson to avoid the
congestion on Busch Road. He said it is not desirable to have
traffic cutting through a residential area, and Busch Road should
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-October 2, 1991-Page 7
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be improved to reduce the amount of traffic usingalternate routes
P
through residential areas.
Greg Rabchuk, 1129 Lockwood Drive questioned the need for the five-
lane improvement for Busch Road and expressed concern that it
would have negative impacts on adjacent residential properties.
Two other residents from the Old Farm Village area stated that they
are opposed to the proposed five lane improvement because it will
reduce the value of their properties and have other impacts such as
noise.
Moved by Commissioner Samuels, seconded by Commissioner Goldspiel,
to recommend to the Village Board that the Village proceed with
planning for the proposed five-lane, single phase improvement to
Busch Road/Deerfield Parkway so that the Village can secure the
appropriate funding for the project in a timely manner.
Chairman Silbernik called for the vote on the motion, and the vote
was as follows:
AYES: Goldspiel, Krug, Rhodes, Howard, Rosenston, Genell,
Samuels
NAYES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Charlette
The motion carried 7 to 0.
CHAIRMAN'S REPORT
Chairman Silbernik stated that the October 9th meeting regarding
the Bill 's loudspeaker system should provide a test of the speaker
system as part of the public hearing process so that the Plan
Commission would be able to physically hear the sound that would be
under discussion and asked that staff implement such a test plan.
FUTURE AGENDA SCHEDULE
Mr. Pfeil noted that there would be a meeting on October 9, 1991 on
the Bill 's PA system, a regular meeting on October 16, 1991 for the
Abbott Contractors and Winchester Estates Townhomes, a
Comprehensive Plan meeting on October 23, 1991 and another workshop
meeting on October 30, 1991 for the Rohrman automobile dealership.
PUBLIC COMMENTS QUESTIONS - None
STAFF REPORT - None
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-October 2, 1991-Page 8
NEW BUSINESS
Commissioner Samuels noted a resident's concern with the cut-
through traffic on Brandywyn, north of Aptakisic, especially by
students trying to reach Stevenson High School. He noted the
resident also complained of excessive speeds by the students who
use this route to reach the high school and therefore asked that
the police be contacted to check out the problem and do whatever
can be done to alleviate the problem.
ADJOURNMENT
Moved by Commissioner Rosenston, seconded by Commissioner Rhodes,
and unanimously carried to adjourn. Chairman Silbernik adjourned
the meeting at 12 : 35 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Fay Rubi , Recording Secretary
APPRO B :
`MARTI SILBERNIK, Chairman
Buffalo Grove Plan Comm-Regular Meeting-October 2 1991-Pa
ge 9