Plan commission backs rezoning on Adams Avenue to allow duplexes, 9–0

The Evansville Area Plan Commission voted unanimously Aug. 1 to recommend rezoning multiple parcels on Adams Avenue (listed in the record as 59–69 Adams Avenue) from C4 with a use-and-development commitment to CO2 with a new UDC to permit residential duplexes. The recommendation was recorded 9–0 and will be forwarded to Evansville City Council for final action.

Krista Lockyer, speaking on behalf of petitioner SS and K LLC, explained that owner Jack Straswig has tried multiple development approaches on the lots and now seeks a downzone to allow duplex housing. “So at this point in time, he is seeking to down zone, to allow him to build duplexes,” Lockyer said. She added the current plan envisions a single duplex development across the three parcels, though the final design has not been finalized.

Staff described the site as lying partly within the commercial core and partly in a residential transition area, noting that the westernmost lot in the commercial core would allow residential units only on upper floors under current C4 zoning, making rezoning to CO2 advantageous if the petitioner wants ground-floor duplexes or different siting. Staff said CO2 would still allow limited low-intensity commercial uses and would preserve some options for mixed use.

After questions about whether a duplex could be built under the existing zoning on parts of the site, commissioners moved and seconded a recommendation for approval; roll-call votes recorded nine ayes and no opposed votes. The commission’s vote is advisory; city council will consider the rezoning at its Aug. 26 meeting.

Action details: commission recommended approval (9–0) and will forward a recommendation to city council.