Urban Design Review Board approves design for 281,880‑sq‑ft warehouse in Forest Park’s Gillum District

The Forest Park Urban Design Review Board on Jan. 17 approved architectural design for a 281,880‑square‑foot Class A warehouse distribution facility at 2000 Anvil Block Road in Ward 3. Staff recommended approval and members voted unanimously to grant design approval.

Staff told the board the property is within the Gillum District and is currently a vacant lot. Staff provided an aerial map, zoning map, site survey, proposed site plan, elevations and a materials-and-colors list for the southeast and west facades; staff concluded the proposed project “meets the current district standards” and “would be consistent and compatible with the city’s land use and development plans, goals, and objectives.”

Jacob Holdemann, representing Scannell Properties, said he and his team were available to answer questions about the proposal. “If you guys do have any questions, happy to answer them,” Holdemann said.

Board discussion was brief. Vice Chairman (name not specified), Ron Dodson, Yahya Hassan and Carol Clayton were present for the vote; Rodney Givens and Yani (Yanny) Cortez were absent. Ron Dodson moved to approve the design; a staff member seconded the motion. The board’s recorded outcome was approved (unanimous, 4–0).

The staff packet included the applicant’s corporate address (8801 River Crossing Boulevard, Suite 300, Indianapolis, Indiana), parcel identifier (Parcel 12204, 204004) and a staff impact summary that noted compatibility with surrounding development patterns. No conditions, amendments or additional direction to staff were recorded during the meeting.

The board adjourned with no additional cases on the agenda; its next meeting was scheduled for Feb. 21, 2025.