During a recent government meeting, discussions centered around a developer's preliminary site plan proposal, which is contingent on obtaining necessary zoning approvals. The developer is hesitant to invest in a full site plan, including grading and stormwater management, without assurance of zoning approval. Village engineer Lindsay Weber emphasized the importance of a comprehensive engineering study, which must include stormwater management and the identification of existing utilities in the area.
Weber noted that large developments often encounter drain tiles, and the developer must ensure that any discovered utilities are properly rerouted to prevent negative impacts on neighboring properties. The village has inspectors in place to oversee this process, ensuring compliance with engineering standards.
The conversation also touched on the potential extension of Graceland Avenue, which would only reach the western boundary of the development site. Concerns were raised about the necessity and feasibility of this extension, particularly regarding the acquisition of additional properties for a public roadway that may not serve significant traffic needs. The village staff indicated that the extension is unlikely to occur, given the limited traffic purpose it would serve.
As the meeting concluded, officials acknowledged the presence of local residents who had attended the plan commission meeting, indicating ongoing community interest in the development process. The next steps will involve further discussions with the Department of Transportation regarding access points to the site, with the possibility of one or two ingress/egress points being more feasible than three.