During a recent meeting of the Lombard Plan Commission, a proposal to convert an office building into a daycare center was presented, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by commercial real estate in the area. The proposed Smart Start Academy would occupy approximately 6,000 to 7,000 square feet on the first floor of the building located at 55 West 20 Second Street. The petitioner, who operates similar facilities in Plainfield and North Aurora, emphasized the need for affordable childcare services and the potential benefits for local families and businesses.

The proposal comes at a time when many office buildings are experiencing high vacancy rates, prompting the need for adaptive reuse of these spaces. The daycare center aims to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children aged six weeks to twelve years, while also creating job opportunities within the community. The petitioner noted that the daycare would cater to parents working in nearby offices, facilitating easier drop-off and pick-up.

The Plan Commission reviewed the proposal, which is classified as a conditional use in the office district zoning. The commission received a report from the IDRC, which indicated that the daycare would convert ten existing parking spaces into a fenced play area equipped with recreational facilities. The planning division found the proposal compliant with the necessary standards, recommending approval subject to specific conditions.

During the public hearing, commission members raised concerns about potential congestion at the main entrance, particularly during peak drop-off and pick-up times. They also discussed the layout of the play area in relation to emergency exits, ensuring that safety protocols would be maintained. The petitioner assured the commission that plans would include adequate egress windows and that the play area would not obstruct emergency exits.

The meeting concluded with a positive outlook for the proposal, as the commission recognized the importance of addressing childcare needs in the community while also revitalizing underutilized commercial spaces. The next steps will involve further discussions and the finalization of conditions before the project can move forward.