Developers unveil hotel and parking garage plans enhancing urban street character

The Carmel City Council held a Plan Commission Hearing on May 29, 2025, focusing on the development of a new hotel and public garage in the city. Key discussions revolved around the architectural plans, tenant arrangements, and landscaping features of the project.

The proposed hotel will feature multiple floors, with approximately 15 rooms on each level. The design includes dedicated elevators for hotel guests, alongside public elevators in the garage. The ground floor is expected to accommodate up to three tenants, with service areas designed to minimize visible clutter, such as an enclosed trash area.

Council members emphasized the importance of maintaining the street character and enhancing pedestrian experiences. Adjustments to the sidewalk design were made to support outdoor dining, with plans for a new 10-foot-wide sidewalk along Penn Street. The project also includes landscaping elements, such as street trees and a planted lawn at the base of the garage, aimed at improving the aesthetic appeal and providing some screening for service areas.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the city’s commitment to urban planning that balances development with community needs. The next steps will involve further refinement of the plans based on feedback from the council and the public.