During a recent government meeting, officials discussed a new Planned Unit Development (PUD) proposal aimed at revitalizing an underdeveloped area of Zionsville. The proposal has been revised based on community feedback and aims to create a framework for sustainable growth.

The PUD has been reduced in size from 160 acres to 110 acres, removing the Creekside Corporate Park from the plan. This change reflects a commitment to focus on the needs of the community and to ensure that development aligns with the town's vision. Mayor Stehr emphasized the importance of controlling development to enhance the town's assessed value and to attract high-end dining and retail options.

The proposal includes specific standards for building height, setbacks, and architectural design. It also sets aside a significant portion of land for preservation, which aims to protect the character of Zionsville's iconic downtown area. The town's leadership believes that this approach will lead to sensible growth that benefits both residents and businesses.

RDC attorney Jeff Jacob highlighted that the PUD is designed to provide unified development standards. This proactive strategy aims to guide future projects and prevent haphazard development. He noted that the PUD will not allow residential use on certain properties, ensuring that the area remains suitable for commercial development.

The meeting also addressed building height regulations. North of the creek, buildings will be limited to a maximum height of 35 feet, with an exception for structures that include parking garages, which can rise to 48 feet. South of the creek, the maximum height is set at 48 feet, with transitional height zones to maintain the area's character.

Overall, the discussions reflect a strong commitment from Zionsville's officials to foster responsible development while preserving the town's unique charm. The revised PUD is seen as a crucial step towards achieving these goals.