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Petitioner seeks clarity on cross-access at 1139 Caroline Ave; commissioners express no firm requirement
Summary
Bob Gates asked whether the town would require a cross-access connection between Lot 1 and Lot 2 at 1139 Caroline Ave. Commissioners said they did not see a need for a cross-easement in this case and advised Gates to proceed with engineering and return for a public hearing.
During a study-session item on April 7, petitioner Bob Gates asked the Schererville Plan Commission whether a cross-access drive between Lot 1 and Lot 2 at 1139 Caroline Avenue would be required as part of development of Lot 2. Gates said he would not proceed with designing an office on Lot 2 if a cross easement forcing access through the wooded area were mandated.
"I can't even imagine what it would be like putting a through road through there," Gates said, citing safety concerns and existing vagrant activity on the corridor. He said the wooded area behind his Lot 1 would mostly remain and that any clearing would be limited to a retention area and the north building pad.
Commissioners discussed emergency access and nearby signalized intersections on Caroline Avenue. Several members said Caroline provides reasonable access from both east and west and that a cross-access through the petitioner’s property did not appear necessary. The commission advised Gates to proceed with engineering and architectural work and to return for a future study session and then a public hearing once design and engineering were complete.
Staff and commissioners also noted concerns about tree removal and site layout but did not impose any new conditions at the study session. Gates said he has engaged DVG on the project and will move forward with the next design steps based on the discussion.
