Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transit Infrastructure topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Officials outline constraints and potential for South Shore Gateway parcels, say mixed‑use north of station is planned
Summary
City planning staff said the parcel between railroad tracks is unlikely to support residential development because of its location, but officials said they are pursuing mixed‑use development on a nearby 16‑acre parcel and expect South Shore service to resume on a January 1 schedule.
City planners and the mayor discussed the future of several parcels near Hammond’s South Shore Gateway Station, saying the large lot between two rail lines has limited residential potential but that a nearby, more marketable parcel north of the station could host mixed‑use development.
Anne Taylor (Planning and Development) said the parcel between two active railroad tracks remains owned by the railroad and that "residential would probably not work there because of the line." The mayor and planning staff said the railroad ownership and the noise and safety constraints of a site between tracks limit residential options.
Taylor and other staff said the city is working with a private owner, identified in discussion as Nick Dee, on other parcels. Taylor and a planning consultant described a 16‑acre parcel north of the current Gateway Station that is partially city‑owned and partially owned by the railroad; they said the city hopes to begin mixed‑use residential development there "starting hopefully, as soon as next year." Scott Miller (Chief of Staff) and planning staff said the railroad has reserved some adjacent land for overflow parking until passenger service and parking demand are established.
Staff also described recent community outreach: the city and consultants held two public presentations at Anthem Church to gather resident feedback about quality‑of‑life priorities and traffic impacts related to new South Shore service. Officials said the South Shore service schedule still targets a January 1 start, noting some delays had been at neighboring stations and on required track repairs.
No final land‑use approvals or binding contracts were announced at Mayor’s Night Out; staff said planning work and property negotiations continue.
