Naperville Neighbors Urge Council to Reconsider Benton + Main Rowhouse Approval

Residents say the 11-unit development violates the city's master plan and zoning rules.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Neighbors of the proposed Benton + Main townhouse development in Naperville, Illinois are urging the city council to reconsider its approval of the 11-unit project, arguing that it violates the city's Transitional Use zoning district and Land Use Master Plan. They say the council ignored their concerns about the development's density, impact on property values, traffic, and loss of light and privacy.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tension between a city's commitment to predictable, rule-based land use planning and the pressure to approve new development projects. The neighbors argue the council's decision sets a dangerous precedent by allowing 'bargained-for zoning' that undermines the integrity of the city's zoning code and master plan.

The details

The Transitional Use (TU) zoning district was designed to serve as a low-impact buffer between downtown intensity and quiet residential neighborhoods. However, the approved Benton + Main project has a density of 3,165 square feet per unit, nearly half the 6,000 square feet required for duplexes under TU zoning. Neighbors testified about the loss of light, privacy, and increased traffic, but their concerns were dismissed. The development's 'public amenities' were also criticized as lacking, with the replacement of mature parkway trees with young saplings and a private driveway considered a public benefit.

  • The Naperville City Council approved the Benton + Main townhouse development on February 17, 2026.
  • Neighbors submitted letters to the council urging reconsideration of the approval on March 2, 2026.

The players

Naperville City Council

The governing body of the city of Naperville, Illinois that approved the Benton + Main townhouse development despite concerns from neighboring residents.

Benton + Main Rowhouse Development

An 11-unit townhouse project proposed for vacant parcels in Naperville, Illinois.

Naperville Neighbors

Residents living near the Benton + Main development site who opposed the project's approval, citing concerns about density, property values, traffic, and loss of light and privacy.

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What they’re saying

“The TU district was designed specifically to serve as a low-impact buffer between downtown intensity and quiet residential neighborhoods. Yet, the council has permitted a project with a density of 3,165 square feet per unit — nearly half the 6,000 square feet required for duplexes under TU zoning. This isn't 'flexibility'; it is a direct violation of the master plan's mandate that new developments remain compatible with adjacent uses.”

— Naperville Neighbors (Chicago Tribune)

“If the council can pick and choose when to follow rules, the integrity of the city's entire zoning code is at risk.”

— Naperville Neighbors (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

A member of the Naperville City Council has been urged to make a motion to reconsider the approval of the Benton + Main townhouse development.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges cities face in balancing development pressures with adherence to established zoning rules and master plans. The Naperville neighbors argue the council's decision sets a dangerous precedent that undermines the integrity of the city's land use planning framework and could have broader implications for every neighborhood in the city.