Thousands Sign Petition to Block Industrial Development in Deerfield

Deerfield, Illinois — Northern suburbs oppose proposed industrial development in the neighborhood.

Bridge Industrial proposed plans to transform its Baxter International headquarters into an industrial facility totaling over one million square feet. Next to Thorngate subdivision in Riverwoods.

Development neighbors say it will affect not only the people of Deerfield, but also Riverwoods and Northbrook.

“When we bought in this community, we were all aware that we were buying with American companies like Baxter, Discover and Horizon,” said Barbara Thorngate, president of the Thorngate Homeowners Association. Raf said.

“No one knew that an industrial warehouse the size of 17 football fields would be built across from us, sharing the same traffic lights we use.”

Neighbors only found out about the plan two weeks ago. The industrial park sits across from the largest subdivision in Riverwoods, they said, with truck traffic, noise and air pollution concerns.

Over 3,000 people have signed a petition to stop the development.

“When you look at the names of the communities we live in, Riverwoods and Deerfield, it’s a beautiful community,” said Caron Blitz of Riverwoods.

Part of the plan also includes an on-site recreation center that the Deerfield Park District has expressed interest in leasing.