Norwalk accelerates ambitious southwest development project

In a recent government meeting, officials provided an update on the Southwest Development Corridor project, highlighting significant progress in the annexation process. The initiative aims to establish a corridor that will safeguard a substantial investment in sanitary sewer infrastructure, with the first phase costing approximately $7 million for a mile and a half of 72-inch pipe. This infrastructure is designed to serve around 30,000 acres of future development along North River and Badger Creek, extending into Madison County.

City representatives noted that they have engaged with property owners throughout the summer to ensure the corridor remains agricultural, preventing the introduction of residential housing that could complicate future industrial and commercial growth. Currently, 93% of the necessary signatures for voluntary annexation have been secured, covering over 2,300 acres.

The meeting also revealed plans for a significant project, referred to as Project West, which involves the acquisition of about 300 acres. This development is expected to kickstart the overall initiative, with projections indicating the construction of a facility spanning approximately one million square feet. Officials expressed optimism about the rapid advancement of the annexation, emphasizing its importance for the community's growth and infrastructure development.