The proposed South Suburban Airport gained a huge victory Friday, March 8, when a Will County Judge ruled in favor of IDOT in utilizing eminent domain to acquire property.
IDOT filed a lawsuit in mid-2012 to acquire the Barbour family land in Peotone, IL, which currently sits in the footprint of the long-anticipated, very controversial South Suburban Airport. The Barbour family objected to this acquisition on the grounds that the Airport has not yet received FAA approval and the condemnation was hence premature. Judge Susan O’Leary upheld IDOT’s condemnation efforts on Friday.
What this ruling means for landowners remains to be seen; however, it will likely signal a more aggressive approach by IDOT in acquiring land considering the legal precedent set by Hon. O’Leary. The ruling will likely be appealed.
If you think you may be affected by this project or would be interested in a free Sever Walker Padgitt speaking arrangement contact our attorneys at any time at 1-888-318-3761 or visit us on the web at www.landownerattorneys.com.
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