Drees Homes proposes Briarwood ranch home project in Avon for baby boomers

The Avon Town Council meeting on April 10, 2025, focused on the proposed Briarwood residential project, which aims to address the demand for single-story ranch homes in the area. Drees Homes, the developer, presented plans for a community targeting "empty nesters" and baby boomers, highlighting the scarcity of such housing options in Avon.

The proposal includes five different floor plans, all designed as single-story ranch homes, with a minimum lot size of 6,600 square feet and a lot width of 53 feet. The project aims to maintain a density of approximately three units per acre while preserving 20% of the area as open space. Drees Homes emphasized their commitment to customization, allowing buyers to select their lot, floor plan, and various interior features, catering to discerning buyers who prioritize quality.

Council members raised concerns about the potential for monotony in home designs, prompting Drees Homes to clarify that while there are multiple elevations for each floor plan, buyers will be limited in color choices to ensure visual diversity in the neighborhood. The developer also noted that the current housing market in Avon has limited options for newer ranch-style homes, with less than 3% of active listings being less than ten years old.

In addition to the housing proposal, Drees Homes committed to several development standards, including a maximum of 55 lots and the installation of emergency access routes. The council discussed the existing conditions of the property, which is currently vacant and has been a source of concern for neighboring residents due to its dilapidated state.

Overall, the Briarwood project is positioned as a solution to the housing needs of older residents in Avon, with the potential to enhance the community while addressing the lack of available ranch homes. The council will continue to review the proposal and its implications for the town's development.