Council approves first and second readings for Auburn Ridge West rezoning after traffic debate

On April 9, 2026, the Town of Brownsburg Town Council voted 3‑2 to approve the proposed first and second readings of Ordinance 2026‑63, a rezoning request for approximately 64 acres known as Auburn Ridge West that would reclassify a portion from AG to R1 and R2. The motion passed on roll call with Mr. Adams opposed, Mr. Tushane in favor, Mr. Simpson in favor, Miss Holman opposed, and President Lacey in favor.

Staff presentation outlined that the rezone would convert much of the parcel to R1 lots meeting the Unified Development Ordinance minimums and that staff found the request consistent with the comprehensive plan and character of the surrounding single‑family neighborhood, contingent on technical review and developer commitments. Town staff and the town engineer described ongoing traffic studies and a package of potential improvements (added turn lanes, signalization and lane realignments) and said there is written documentation approving a proposed interstate interchange project but not yet a firm timetable.

The applicant, MI Homes, described changes from earlier iterations: a site plan showing roughly 54 R1 lots and 34 R2 lots and a commitment that the development will contain no more than 34 R2 lots. The developer also committed $4,444 per home in contributions for future intersection and road improvements and said the extension of Tilden Drive to 500 East and certain utility upgrades would be provided by the developer. The developer stated, “we put in a revised commitment saying that there would be no more than 34 R2 lots,” and noted the project’s buildout is not expected to generate housing starts before 2028.

Council discussion centered on traffic capacity, the difference between roadway width and pavement depth (the developer sought approval to reduce pavement depth while maintaining lane configuration), stormwater containment, sewer lift station upgrades (the developer will improve the lift station as required), and whether certain connectivity (a Tilden Terrace cul‑de‑sac) should be retained for neighborhood identity and safety. Staff confirmed that the pavement‑depth change would not require returning the matter to the Advisory Planning Commission; any approval rests with the council.

By the end of the item the council approved the ordinance’s progression on first and second reading (motion carried 3‑2). The developer indicated they would return to the council in two weeks with final paperwork and attachments. The council’s action advances the rezoning but does not by itself constitute final plat approval or building permits; additional technical approvals and commitments remain to be finalized.