Naperville Planning and Zoning commissioners like the idea of a racing simulation center opening on Route 59, and think it could be busy, but it’s contingent on the Naperville City Council approving the zoning parameters the business needs.

Sim Racing is seeking a conditional use to operate an entertainment venue in a B2 community shopping center district and a parking variance to deem the 23 spots available on-site as sufficient.

Planning and Zoning commissioners unanimously endorsed both requests, passing along the issue to the council with a positive recommendation.

If approved, Sim Racing could move into the vacant half of a building in High Grove Plaza at 1911 Glacier Park Ave., connected to Xtreme Dance Center. Signs for Sim Racing, which describes itself as “a mix of virtual gaming and racing,” are already on the facility.

Yana Miska, operations director for Sim Racing, said the business would welcome customers by appointment only and would offer 16 “top-of-the-line simulators that are created to mimic real-life driving on the track.” One or two employees would staff the center at a time, and the 4,500-square-foot facility would include a lounge with seating in addition to the simulators.

Miska said the building would not require any exterior changes, and the racing center wouldn’t create much noise because drivers would hear the sounds of their simulated races on individual headsets.

Brad Iwicki, an assistant planner for the city, said staff supports a conditional use for the racing center because it’s compatible with a goal in the land-use master plan of providing diverse entertainment options.

Staff also supports the requested parking variance because the space’s previous tenant — a dance studio — operated until 2023 without issue using the 23 spaces available, he said, and a parking study conducted by Sim Racing determined the spots would be enough.

Staff also would place a condition on the potential approval of the parking variance, which would require the business to notify the city of any plans to increase the number of simulators, Iwicki said.

Miska said customers of Sim Racing’s existing Algonquin location often carpool if they’re coming to race in groups. The business is committed to making sure parking at its planned Naperville facility is not a problem, he said.

“I have a really good relationship with with Xtreme Dance Center,” Miska said. “We’ve spoken about parking and sharing the space and doing things together. Everyone is on the same page.”

Commissioners expressed enthusiasm for the racing center and its plans to offer programs for kids and families, plus coaching for young people interested in pursuing professional racing.

“This is a fantastic concept. I think you’ll be very busy very quickly,” Commissioner Derek McDaniel said. “I think the opportunity is limitless.”

Marie Wilson is a freelance reporter for the Naperville Sun.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/12/04/racing-simulation-business-center-naperville-commission/