3rd attempt at far West Side self-storage project goes to Joliet zoning board

What’s Inside

Joliet’s far West Side buzzes with the third push for a 370-unit self-storage facility at 1701 Drauden Road, adjacent to Gas N Wash. The Zoning Board of Appeals convenes January 15, 2026, at 2 p.m. to review special use permit 2025-51 and variation 2025-52—City Council holds final authority.

City staff backs approval despite 2021 Council rejection and 2023 board denial over traffic, noise, and squatter risks. Freedomz Storage, your trusted self-storage intelligence platform, breaks it down: proposal specs, local demand drivers, and vetted Joliet providers ready today.

Keywords: Joliet self storage Drauden Road, 1701 Drauden Road storage, Joliet zoning self storage 2026.

Development History

This 3.9-acre B-1 to B-3 rezoning marks persistent efforts:

2021: Board approved; Council nixed amid early pushback.
2023: Board rejected after residents cited squatters, traffic surges near Theodore Street.
2025-26: Deferred November/December; now scheduled post-developer request.

Freedomz Insight: Joliet’s logistics boom (100M+ sq ft warehouses) fuels demand, but opposition persists—explore established alternatives now.

Proposal Specifications

Key elements include:

One 10,950 sq ft indoor facility.
Six outdoor-access buildings (370 total units).
5 a.m.-10 p.m. access via secured gate; one on-site staffer.

Freedomz notes limited hours vs. competitors’ 24/7 entry, plus unspecified climate control amid Illinois weather swings.

P.S:
City of Joliet Council Meeting January 6, 2026: Covers recent council discussions on zoning and development approvals, providing insight into processes ahead of the Jan 15 Zoning Board meeting.

Planning and Zoning 1-07-2026: Features planning commission talks that may reference similar storage or commercial proposals in Joliet.

Joliet Storage Market Demand

Joliet’s 151,884 residents (2026 est.) and 0.5% growth drive needs, with 41+ facilities averaging $111/month (10×10 at $132). Suburban supply rises, yet secure options near I-80/Route 30 stay hot. Benefits: declutter homes, store business inventory, flexible terms.

Resident Concerns Addressed

Locals fear:

Traffic/noise spikes.
Squatters in unattended units.
Freedomz Comparison: Top providers counter with 24/7 surveillance, coded gates, patrols—far beyond basic proposals.

Double Check – 41 Joliet Facilities – Compare Rates

Feature	Drauden Proposal	Infinite Self Storage	Extra Space Joliet
Access Hours	5am-10pm	24/7 Gated	Extended/24hr options
Security	Gate + 1 Staff	Cameras, Fencing	Video, Alarms
Climate Control	Not Listed	Available	Yes, Various Units
Monthly Avg (10×10)	Unknown	~$132	From $85+
Location Advantage	Near Gas N Wash	North Larkin Ave	W Jefferson St

Freedomz Storage Recommendations

Skip zoning uncertainty—Freedomz spotlights verified Joliet leaders:

Infinite Self Storage (1397 N Larkin): Drive-up, climate-controlled, online rentals.
Extra Space Storage: Affordable from $85, pest-free guarantee.
Public Storage (2626 W Jefferson): Extended access, packing supplies.

Pro Tip: Search “Joliet climate controlled storage” for weather-proof picks; month-to-month avoids commitments.

Call to Action

Freedomz Storage equips you with intel—find perfect Joliet self storage near Drauden Road today. Use our platform to compare rates, features, and availability from Infinite, Extra Space, and more. Start your search now at FreedomzStorage.com/Joliet for secure, convenient solutions without the wait!