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RJ Construction seeks second‑floor addition and updated signage at 113 W. Joliet St., Schererville
Summary
RJ Construction representatives presented a development‑plan review to the Schererville Town Plan Commission for a second‑story office conversion, 500‑square‑foot addition, new siding and updated signage at 113 West Joliet Street; staff and commissioners raised no objections during the study session.
RJ Construction representatives presented a proposal on May 19 to convert and expand the upper level of a mixed‑use building at 113 West Joliet Street in Schererville, seeking Plan Commission feedback on exterior changes, parking and signage.
The applicant, Caleb Johnson, described plans to remove a residential rental unit on the building's second floor and extend the second story across the east half of the building, adding about 500 square feet to create office space for a law practice and potential leasable office suites. "We're adding 500 square feet, essentially, to the building," Johnson said, adding that the upper level will receive LP SmartSide siding and new window trim while the lower level will keep existing vinyl siding until the owner can afford matching material.
The proposal also includes small storefront and wayfinding changes: an awning above a rear entrance and two 2‑by‑12‑foot signs reading "Caleb S. Johnson Law," one on the two‑story section and one facing Anna Street. The applicant said the signs would be illuminated with downward‑directed fixtures designed not to shine onto the street.
Caleb Johnson said the site plan adds five parking spaces to the existing lot, bringing the total to 12 spaces once parking blocks and landscaping are installed. "When I'm all finished ... I should have 12 parking spaces," he said, and noted that street parking is available nearby.
Commissioners and staff asked practical questions about materials and signage. A Plan Commission member (staff) confirmed the siding product name and a separate staff member (Andy) had already reviewed the parking layout. No objections or requested changes were recorded in the transcript: a Plan Commission member summarized staff feedback as "Looks good," and staff provided no further comment.
Because this item was presented at a study session, no formal motion or vote was recorded. The applicant indicated readiness to return at the next meeting if requested.
The Plan Commission discussion addressed exterior materials, signage placement and parking counts; no formal conditions, waivers or approvals were made at the study session. The applicant acknowledged the town's signage and other specifications and said he will follow up with staff on any outstanding details.
Looking ahead, Johnson said he may rent unused upstairs offices to other small professional tenants. No construction timeline or permit approval date was given during the study session; permit timing and any formal approvals will be set during the town's permitting process.
