Planning panel backs Rivian’s compromise expansion plan

Posted on April 9, 2021
The Normal Town Council will consider the re-zoning at its April 19 meeting. (Photo courtesy: Heart of Illinois ABC)

By Heart of Illinois ABC

NORMAL – The Town of Normal Planning Commission voted Thursday to move forward with plans allowing Rivian Automotive to expand its operation on the west side.

The electric-vehicle maker, expected to start production of pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles later this year, is buying land just west of the current plant on Rivian Motorway, also known as Route 150.

Right now, the land is zoned for agriculture use, and the company filed plans with the town government last month requesting the property be re-zoned for manufacturing.

At Thursday evening’s public hearing, Rivian representatives revealed only that the company would use the new space for light manufacturing, logistics, and warehousing. They said specific plans would be filed in the coming months.

Several neighbors spoke during the hearing, including Brad Allen, who owns property that would be closest to the expansion.

“We are not anti-Rivian,” said Allen.

“There would be possible negative environmental impacts, and negative impact to all of their neighbors to the west,” he added.

To calm neighbors’ concerns, Rivian agreed to keep 60 of the 380 acres zoned for agriculture.

The Normal Town Council will consider the re-zoning at its April 19 meeting.

Heart of Illinois ABC can be reached at [email protected]. 

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