SAY NO

TO THE PROPOSED SOLO CUP PROPERTY WAREHOUSE/TRUCK DEPOT DEVELOPMENT

This proposed development plan will have significant negative impacts regarding the Health, Safety, Environment, Local Business and General Welfare for all Highland Park residents.

While not exhaustive, some of these negative impacts include:

1)    A dramatic increase of 500-600 vehicles (1000-1200 one-way trips) daily, including semi-trucks, small trucks, vans, cars etc. commuting to the Solo Cup site from Route 41 and surrounding residential areas. This will create significant traffic congestion around the police station, resulting in life threatening health risks associated with delayed response by Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Personnel to critical emergencies throughout the city. These concerns have been expressed by the Police Department.

2)   Increased traffic will pose a danger to students & buses commuting daily to Sherwood, Red Oak, Ravinia Nursery School, True North Educational Facilities and Highland Park Community School. Additionally, it will pose a danger to families attending sporting events and activities at West Ridge Park & Park District Building. 

3)   Health and Quality of Life risks associated with air, soil, water, noise, and light pollution. Hours of operation have yet to be confirmed, so it’s possible the site could be operating 24/7. Poor air quality resulting from diesel fuel truck emissions will have a harmful impact on children living nearby and those attending the neighborhood schools. It should be noted that the increased vehicle emissions are in direct conflict with the city’s stated goal of reducing its carbon footprint.

4)   The developer’s submitted site plan will be harmful to wetland habitat. Wetlands provide many societal benefits including flood protection, water purification and food & habitat for wildlife. The plan also calls for cutting down hundreds of trees including 9 Heritage Oaks. The City Forester has indicated their opposition to cutting down the Heritage Oaks.

5)   Traffic congestion, air and noise pollution around the development will have a significant negative impact on existing businesses in the Briergate District, resulting in a loss of jobs and the real possibility these businesses will be forced to close. This will result in the loss of municipal revenue.

6)   These Health, Safety, Environmental, Loss of Business and Quality of Life issues will negatively affect property values throughout the surrounding area.

Please consider signing this petition and let our city leaders know this development is not in the best interest of the future of our children, environment, and Highland Park Strong community!