Carmel panel approves Swinley Forest plat with setback variance and private-access waiver

The City of Carmel Plan Commission Committee approved the primary plat for the four‑lot Swinley Forest subdivision and granted two exceptions — a front‑yard setback variance from 35 feet to 25 feet and a waiver allowing access from a private drive — at its March 4 committee meeting, subject to finalizing outstanding project documents, the commission said.

The decision matters to nearby residents because the 7.2‑acre site lies west of Rangeline Road on 116th Street between Donnie Brook and Monon Farms, and project design choices affect drainage, tree preservation and the configuration of the neighborhood entrance. Planning staff recommended approval contingent on finalizing outstanding comments in the project documents.

Adam Mears, with Grama Land Development, described the proposal as a four‑lot subdivision accessed by a private drive and said the requested 10‑foot setback relief would allow homes to be built outside a large flood area. "We're asking that you approve our primary plat," Mears said, summarizing the changes since the last hearing.

Mears said the petitioner…