City planners unveil ambitious future land use map

During a recent government meeting focused solely on housing, officials reviewed the draft future land use map, highlighting significant updates and concepts aimed at guiding development in the area. The map has been revised to include expanded land use categories such as schools, parks, and manufactured housing, as well as the removal of the corporate park overlay district, which will now revert to low-density residential zoning.

Key features of the updated map include the introduction of neighborhood nodes, innovation boundaries, and special planning areas, particularly along Michigan Avenue. These new concepts are designed to enhance community planning and development, with detailed descriptions and potential land uses provided for each category.

One notable change is the adjustment of a previously designated area from low-density residential to rural residential, responding to public feedback. This change allows for a maximum density of one dwelling unit per two acres, reflecting community preferences for less dense development.

Discussions also touched on the need for utility planning, particularly regarding the potential for a new substation to support high-tech developments in the township. Officials acknowledged the importance of incorporating utility considerations into the land use framework, ensuring that future developments align with infrastructure needs.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for further discussion on the future land use map, emphasizing the collaborative approach to urban planning and community engagement.