The existing Altenheim rail that would be turned into an elevated trail park. [City of Chicago presentation] 

The Chicago Plan Commission on Thursday is set to consider adopting the framework plan for the Altenheim Trail on the city’s West Side. Plan Commissioners are also set to vote on a nine-story mixed-use development in Humboldt Park. 

The framework plan is expected to lay the groundwork for the trail to be built on two miles of elevated abandoned train rail that runs from California Avenue to Kostner Avenue through North Lawndale, East Garfield Park and West Garfield Park in the 24th and 28th wards. Plans for the Altenheim Trail also include open space. 

The plan envisions eight access points to the trail and a variety of “focus areas” along the elevated trail. Focus areas include forests and meadows, a theater, community arts and music center and a sculpture garden, according to a presentation from the city’s planning department. 

In addition to setting the trail’s framework, the plan examines the possible effect the trail would have on the community with a look specifically at “equitable investment that makes recommendations for resident retention, local economic growth, and anti-displacement strategies,” according to plan commission documents. 

The goal of the Altenheim plan was “exploring recreational opportunities for the line itself” and highlight the best uses of industrial and commercial space along the line. 

City officials expect the Altenheim Trail plan will “encourage active transportation,” help to improve vacant land, create jobs and preserve affordable housing, according to the presentation.  

Separately during Thursday’s meeting, the Plan Commission is set to consider a proposal (O2022-2053) from Team Pioneros to build a nine-story, mixed-use residential building with 85 apartment units, 58 parking spaces, counseling services from Humboldt Park Health and a new Chicago Public Library location at 1614 to 1638 N. Pulaski Rd. in the 26th Ward. 

The developer is planning to restore the Bank Building on the proposed site to become a “center for Latino commerce,” cultural hub, incubator and workspace including professional offices, according to a presentation from the city’s planning department.  

The new construction building is described in the presentation as one that will “stretch the past into the future with a design that directly connects to the north side of the Bank.” 

Additionally during Thursday’s Plan Commission meeting, members will consider a proposal (O2022-2060) from TP 106th, LLC to build a vehicular storage area with 638 non-accessory parking spaces at 2800 E. 106th St. in the 10th Ward. 

The vehicle storage area is expected to house space for trailers and support shipping logistics in Chicago for local companies and trailer leasing or fleet companies, according to a presentation from the city’s planning department, according to a presentation from the city’s planning department.