Shape Oak Park: It's time to lead again

Published on November 18, 2025

Oak Park has always been a leader — pioneering diverse, integrated neighborhoods and setting national standards in historic preservation and sustainability.

Residents chose to build this community through thoughtful, intentional action. Now it is the current generation of community members’ turn to step up.

Through Shape Oak Park, the Village is partnering with Opticos Design and a multifaceted team of experts to update Oak Park’s zoning code so it reflects the community’s values of equity, inclusion, sustainability and affordability.

By embracing missing middle housing — duplexes, townhomes and small-scale multi-unit buildings that match Oak Park’s neighborhood character — Village officials are looking to create more housing, more choices and more opportunity.

This isn't about dramatic change — it's about thoughtful additions that honor what makes Oak Park special while opening doors for young families, older adults and everyone in between.

Your voice is essential

Over the coming months, the Shape Oak Park project team will host community conversations and workshops where you can actively guide Oak Park’s evolution.

Whether you're a longtime resident, business owner or new neighbor, this is your opportunity to ensure the next generation can write its own Oak Park story.

Visit www.engageoakpark.com/shape to learn more, share your thoughts via survey and sign up for project updates.

Join the conversation