Apex 400: Judge Rules In Favor Of Developers, Village

GLEN ELLYN, IL — A DuPage County Circuit Court judge has ruled in favor of GSP developers and the village of Glen Ellyn in the ongoing challenge over redeveloping the former site of Giesche Shoes. According to an update from village officials, the judge ruled that Glen Ellyn's village board had "a clear and convincing rational basis for approving the Apex 400 development."

In May, a judge dismissed all but one claim against the redevelopment. The remaining claim, by Plaintiff Shoub Properties, LLC, had a motion filed for summary judgment, which was heard virtually Tuesday.

The legal action against the Apex 400 development has been ongoing since before the $40 million project was approved by the Glen Ellyn Village Board in April 2019. The mixed-use development will include 107 luxury apartments and more than 8,800 square feet of commercial space.

The structure will also feature a two-story parking garage that allows for public parking on the first floor.

Village officials in a press release listed several reasons why the project was approved. These include assertions that the project will be a boon to downtown business, will increase housing diversity and will expand the village's tax base. The project is also set to generate $7.3 million in TIF Funds that the village says will help with its capital projects, including the Glen Ellyn Civic Center parking garage and the new pedestrian tunnel and train station.

Glen Ellyn Village President Diane McGinley said in a statement, “We are very pleased with the outcome and the Judge’s ruling today,” said Glen Ellyn Village President Diane McGinley. “For years, the Village has identified this as a key redevelopment site in the downtown. We expect this investment to add vitality in the central business district through new residents and increased foot traffic to support our vibrant business community.”