Vermillion Development’s Residential Tower a Record in Evanston

Vermilion Development’s plans for a 31-story apartment tower in downtown Evanston would set a height record for the city, amid new zoning guidelines.

The company, led by CEO Dave Cocagne, recently submitted plans to construct a 447-unit residential tower at 605 Davis Street, a significant departure from the developer’s earlier proposal for an 18-story office building at the site, Evanston Now reported, citing the city manager’s office.

If approved, the tower would be the tallest structure in Evanston, surpassing 277-foot Orrington Plaza and 276-foot Sherman Plaza. However, before the project can move forward, the Evanston City Council must approve proposed zoning code changes, including the consolidation of nearly 20 chapters of regulations into a more cohesive 51-page document.

The updated regulations allow larger buildings in most areas, encouraging the development of up to four units on properties within single-family zones. Accessory dwelling units would also be permitted in one- to four-unit buildings, supporting multigenerational living and adding more housing options.

The revised code also introduces stricter environmental standards and affordable housing requirements. For example, developers seeking height bonuses must designate at least 15 percent of the units as affordable, with higher requirements for publicly funded projects.

The removal of minimum parking requirements for developments is also being explored.

Vermilion’s apartment proposal calls for at least 67 potentially reserved to meet the city’s affordable housing requirements. The remaining units are expected to be market-rate.

In addition to the tower, Vermilion has also invested $2 million to acquire the neighboring Chase Bank drive-thru at 609 and 615 Davis Street, which could be integrated into the developer’s larger development plans.