Chicago Plan Commission approves Fulton Market high-rise with Downtown-level density

The proposed 29-story tower would bring 347 apartments, including 70 affordable units, to the Fulton Market neighborhood.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Chicago Plan Commission has approved a proposal by Domus Real Estate Group to build a 29-story mixed-use tower at 215 N. Racine Ave. in the Fulton Market neighborhood. The project, which will now advance to the Committee on Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards, is seeking a zoning change from DX-5 to DX-16 - a designation typically reserved for Downtown developments. The tower would include 347 apartments, 70 of which would be affordable units, as well as ground-floor commercial space, parking, and amenities.

Why it matters

The Plan Commission's approval of the higher-density zoning for the Fulton Market project sets a precedent for the neighborhood, which has historically had a lower density zoning cap. This decision reflects the city's efforts to encourage more mixed-income housing and development in the rapidly transforming area, despite some opposition from the Department of Planning and Development and local community groups.

The details

Domus Real Estate Group's proposed tower at 215 N. Racine Ave. would stand 29 stories tall and include 347 apartments, ranging from studios to three-bedroom units. The project would also feature 70 affordable housing units, ground-floor commercial space, 88 parking spots, and an amenity terrace with a pool. As part of the development, Domus would purchase land at 1240 W. Carroll Ave. to create a privately-managed public park. The Department of Planning and Development had initially recommended against the project's request for the higher DX-16 zoning, but the Plan Commission ultimately voted in favor of the proposal.

  • The Chicago Plan Commission approved the project on February 19, 2026.

The players

Domus Real Estate Group

The developer behind the proposed 29-story tower in Fulton Market.

Department of Planning and Development (DPD)

The city agency that initially recommended against the project's request for higher-density zoning, but later acknowledged the need for more mixed-income housing and development in the area.

Walter "Red" Burnett

The 27th Ward alderman, who expressed support for the project, noting the need for more family-sized units and green space in the Fulton Market neighborhood.

Patti Doyle

The executive director of the West Central Association Chamber of Commerce, who voiced opposition to the higher zoning designation and the precedent it sets for the neighborhood.

Ciere Boatright

The DPD commissioner, who voiced support for the Domus project and acknowledged the city's need for more mixed-income housing and development.

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What they’re saying

“There's no green space whatsoever.”

— Walter "Red" Burnett, 27th Ward Alderman (suntimes.com)

“To be clear, the [chamber] supports more density. We want more family-oriented units and more affordable housing. Our position here is about process and precedent and ensuring that growth happens in a way that is consistent, predictable and aligned with long-term planning and growth for the Near West Side.”

— Patti Doyle, Executive Director, West Central Association Chamber of Commerce (suntimes.com)

“The building alone really fits into what Fulton Market is and where it's going. We need this housing.”

— Walter "Red" Burnett, 27th Ward Alderman (suntimes.com)

What’s next

The project will now advance to the Committee on Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards for further review.

The takeaway

The Plan Commission's approval of the higher-density zoning for the Fulton Market tower highlights the city's efforts to encourage more mixed-income housing and development in the rapidly transforming neighborhood, despite some community opposition. This decision sets a precedent that could shape the future growth and character of the area.