Planning commission approves Vista 45 residential components; requires MDOT permit and recorded easements

The Walker Planning Commission on June 12, 2025 voted to approve the final area site plan (FASP) for the residential components of Vista 45, a mixed‑use development along Lake Michigan Drive NW that includes a mixed‑use building and an apartment complex. The approval is conditional on recorded cross‑access easements, a maintenance agreement for the LaSalle Avenue greenbelt and boulevard, and securing necessary approvals from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), including a permit for a proposed traffic signal.

Why it matters: Vista 45 is a large mixed‑use project that will create new public and private streets, a public north‑south LaSalle Drive and private east‑west sections, a multi‑building apartment complex, and a mixed‑use building that will interface with commercial parcels along Lake Michigan Drive. The residential components will add housing and new infrastructure and require coordination among the city, MDOT and private property owners.

Key details from staff and applicant - Prior approvals…