Brownsburg Commission Rejects Rezoning Proposal for Claremont Drive-In Site

The Advisory Plan Commission of Brownsburg, Indiana, convened on August 25, 2025, to discuss a significant rezone request affecting a site previously occupied by the Claremont Drive-In Theater. The meeting focused on the proposal to rezone approximately 22.6 acres of land from Parks and Recreation (PR) to Industrial (I-1) and Commercial (C-2) classifications, located at 10310 and 10508 East US Highway 136.

The commission reviewed the rezone based on five key criteria: alignment with the comprehensive plan, current conditions in the district, desirable land use, property value conservation, and responsible development. The developer's plan includes constructing two industrial buildings of 100,000 and 85,000 square feet, along with smaller commercial lots ranging from 3,000 to 9,600 square feet. Additionally, there are plans for a strip retail development on a smaller parcel currently housing a single-family residence.

During the meeting, it was noted that the site is not within the town's water or sewer service areas, which raised concerns about infrastructure. The Indiana Department of Transportation (NDOT) recommended a traffic study to assess the impact of the proposed development on local traffic patterns. The police department indicated that findings from this study would inform any necessary traffic control measures.

A public open house was held on August 19, allowing neighbors to provide feedback, which resulted in a commitment to restrict access to County Road 1025 East for emergency use only, with a gated entry for fire department access.

The commission's analysis revealed that the proposed industrial use does not align with the future land use map, which designates the area for residential purposes. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on nearby residential properties and the overall character of the neighborhood. Despite the anticipated economic benefits, including increased tax revenue and job creation, the staff recommended an unfavorable recommendation for the rezone based on the criteria evaluated.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for questions from the commissioners, indicating ongoing discussions about the implications of the proposed development and the community's response. The commission's decision will be forwarded to the town council for further consideration.