CHICAGO—Transit-oriented developments are all the rage in the city's hottest apartment markets. But robust demand for these types of properties also exists in many affluent suburbs. And Itasca, IL-based M&R Development, in a joint venture with Deerfield, IL-based Globe Corp., have just broken ground on The Residences at Wilmette, a five-story, 75-unit building at 611 Green Bay Rd. in north suburban Wilmette. Located less than one block from the Wilmette Metra station, it will provide residents with a 36-minute commute to Chicago's Ogilvie Transportation Center.

Furthermore, a regional bike path, also within one block of the project, will lead residents to the Lake Michigan shoreline. The partners plan to complete the project, which will also include 6,200 square feet of street-level retail, in August 2017.

“There's definitely a pent-up demand for new luxury rentals in downtown Wilmette,” says Anthony Rossi Sr., president of M&R Development. “In fact, this building will mark the first new-construction rental community in the immediate area in many years. The development's location next to public transportation, along with its mix of high-end residential and commercial uses, will make it an ideal place to live for long-time Wilmette residents looking to make a change to a maintenance-free lifestyle, yet still remain in the area.”

The development will include a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom floor plans ranging in size from 650 to 1,550 square feet. Each home will feature 9½-foot ceilings; modern kitchens with 42-inch upper cabinets, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances; and upscale baths with ceramic tile floors and shower enclosures. Each apartment will also be equipped with a washer/dryer, cable TV, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a high-efficiency furnace/AC unit.

“With luxury condominium-quality interior finishes and high-end craftsmanship, there's no doubt The Residences at Wilmette will appeal to discerning renters by choice,” adds Rossi. “These maintenance-free apartments will resonate just as much with area residents wanting to downsize as they will to those looking to move into the top-ranked New Trier school district.”

In addition to the quick access to downtown Chicago via the Metra Station and the lakefront via the regional bike path, residents will also have a short walk to three different Pace Suburban Bus lines, the public library, village government center, and numerous shopping and dining destinations.

Oak Brook, IL-based Schwarz Lewis Design Group designed the project and Chicago-based McHugh Construction has been retained as its general contractor.

Instant Insights /

Transit-Oriented Development Coming to North Suburbs

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