Franklin Township plans new parochial school and senior facility in zoning proposal

In a recent meeting of the Metropolitan Development Commission in Indianapolis, significant discussions centered around a proposed planned unit development that aims to address the growing housing needs in Franklin Township. The proposal includes a mix of residential options, a parochial school, and a dedicated senior living facility, reflecting a comprehensive approach to community development.

The development plan features 189 single-family lots, with sizes larger than typical offerings in the current market, including 70-foot wide lots and 100-foot wide lots. This initiative is designed to provide high-quality housing options, which have garnered support from local residents and the Civic League. The developer emphasized their commitment to maintaining robust setback requirements and infrastructure improvements, addressing community concerns about traffic and development impact.

A notable aspect of the proposal is the inclusion of a senior facility, which may offer either independent or assisted living options. The developers clarified that this facility will cater specifically to individuals aged 55 and older, ensuring that it aligns with community needs for senior housing. The commitment to limit the facility's height to two stories aims to maintain the neighborhood's character and prevent the construction of larger institutional buildings.

City staff expressed support for the development, highlighting its alignment with the comprehensive plan for suburban neighborhoods. They noted that the developers have actively engaged with the community to address traffic concerns and have made commitments to improve local infrastructure. A voluntary donation of $470,000 has also been pledged to further support these improvements.

As the meeting concluded, members of the commission emphasized the importance of adhering to the commitments made by the developers. Local leaders, including Councilor Mahoney, assured residents that they would closely monitor the project's progress to ensure compliance with all agreements.

This proposed development represents a significant step towards meeting the housing demands in Franklin Township while fostering community engagement and addressing infrastructure needs. The next steps will involve finalizing commitments and ensuring that the development aligns with the expectations set forth during these discussions.