The City of Chicago previously announced the North Branch Framework project, which will transform the large industrial space between Kinzie Street and Fullerton Avenue, spanning from Lincoln Park to Wicker Park. Mayor Rahm Emanuel and his administration are now preparing to rezone the approximately 750 acres of land, which rest beside the Chicago River, according to Curbed Chicago. 

The rezoning ordinance would divide the land into three distinct areas. The northernmost section of land would be zoned for largely industrial uses, but it would allow developers to pay a fee to build projects outside the industrial scope.

The middle section of the North Branch corridor, which already exists as an industrial hotspot, will be rezoned as a planned manufacturing district (PMD), according to the report.

The southernmost parcel of land is also a PMD, which the current rezoning proposal would not change. 

The future fees any developers pay to create non-industrial developments will fund the North Branch Corridor Bonus System. This city-run system will likely be used to fund public improvement projects such as transit updates and public space.

The City of Chicago hopes the North Branch Framework initiative will preserve the area’s role as a job center, increase access to transportation, and improve the area’s natural environment

The planned rezoning will be discussed during public meetings held July 11.