Council approves PUD master plan and rezoning for 625 3rd Street to accommodate CareerTech and mixed uses

The Beloit City Council approved a Planned Unit Development (PUD) master land use plan for a portion of 625 3rd Street at its July 2026 meeting, clearing the way for CareerTech to relocate and expand into space formerly occupied by a golf lab.

City planning staff told the council the PUD would permit a mix of uses — education, office, retail, commercial, entertainment and light industrial — and that the master plan conforms to standards listed in the ordinance attachment. Staff said all property owners within 150 feet were notified and that no public comments were received during the planning commission process.

“A primary reason for the PUD is to allow for a mix of uses, including educational uses,” a staff member said, describing proposed signage, access points to Amtrak Drive and the north alley, and a projected continuation of CareerTech enrollment growth. Staff noted an existing off‑street parking shortfall but said nearby public lots and street parking would mitigate impacts.

Council suspended the usual rules to consider the rezoning ordinance the same night at the applicant’s request and proceeded to vote on the rezoning. A motion and second were recorded and members voiced approval; the record shows the council advanced the rezoning to finalize the PUD approvals.

The decision permits the applicant to proceed to the next PUD stage, a final site plan approval that staff will complete if the rezoning and master plan requirements are met. The master plan includes conditions listed in attachment A that govern allowed uses, building coverage, height and signage.

The public hearing on the master plan produced no speakers; the council closed the hearing before voting. The applicant had requested same-night action because they were prepared to begin project work pending final approvals.