ULI Chicago’s Public Policy Committee hosted Michael Berkshire from the City of Chicago, Department of Planning and Development (DPD)  for a presentation on the proposed update to the City’s Sustainable Development Policy.

First implemented in 2004, Chicago’s Sustainable Development Policy requires new development projects and major renovations that are receiving financial assistance or needing special approvals to include sustainable elements.  The policy has resulted in Chicago being a global leader in the green roof movement and square footage of LEED certified buildings.  The main objectives of the update are to:

• Reflect changes in market developments since 2004
• Award innovation in sustainable design
• Increase flexibility in meeting the City’s sustainability goals
• Create environmental and economic value in development projects

To achieve these objectives, the City is moving towards a more flexible, performance-based approach that will allow developers to choose from a “menu” of items to meet sustainability goals for their projects. ULI members at the meeting welcomed this approach and considered additional development practices that can promote sustainable development, such as credits for building in disinvested, underserved parts of the City.

The draft update is available on the City’s website, and comments are being accepted until the end of October. You can send comments directly to the City or to Swasti Shah, Director of Community Engagement, ULI Chicago, and we will forward them on your behalf.