Board approves 98-unit senior affordable housing at 610 E. Weiser with variances

The Delaware-Muncie Metropolitan Board of Zoning Appeals on Sept. 24 approved a special-use permit and four variances to let TWG Development LLC build a 98-unit senior affordable housing complex at 610 East Weiser Street.

TWG representative Marissa Knatzer told the board the project targets older adults, will include on-site management, community gardens, a community room and access to the Cardinal Greenway. She said the site layout requires exceptions to front- and side-yard setbacks and a reduced parking ratio because of the site’s configuration and the expected lower car-ownership rates among residents.

Knatzner said state funding tied to the project requires security measures including key‑fob access and security cameras at entrances and in hallways. Mayor Dan Ridenour and Delaware County Commissioner Stephen Brand spoke in support, noting prior TWG projects in the city and county and saying the development would add housing close to the Cardinal Greenway and nearby neighborhoods.

Planning staff reported the case had appeared before the city planning commission, which voted 9-0 on Sept. 4 to forward a favorable recommendation. Board members asked about building‑to‑trail distances; Knatzer said the safety barrier would sit about 20 feet from the property line and the trail.

A motion to approve the special use and variances carried on a roll call of 6 yes, 0 no. The board’s approval includes the hardship stated in the application; staff will provide the certification that allows the applicant to proceed with permitting and final plan review.

Why it matters: The project will add nearly 100 units of senior-focused affordable housing adjacent to the Cardinal Greenway and is tied to state funding rules that impose building‑security requirements. Approval clears the way for permitting and construction steps.