Developer proposes mixed‑use PUD with senior housing, commercial frontage on US 31 in Whiteland

The Whiteland Advisory Planning Commission heard a presentation and public hearing Tuesday on Case 2026‑CD‑03, a petition by Real America Companies to rezone about 20.8 acres along US 31 from C‑2 commercial to a Planned Unit Development to allow a mixed‑use project with senior apartment cottages and commercial outlots.

Petitioner Mike Surak of Real America Companies said the site suits a lower‑density residential product and commercial frontage that could develop over time. “We envision this as kinda naturally functioning as a shared, you know, greater development that's interconnected with trails and a pond in the center that promotes connectivity,” Surak said, describing plans for garages, private unit entrances and a clubhouse. He said the company intends long‑term ownership and management of the buildings.

Staff framed the rezoning against the Town of Whiteland comprehensive plan goals that promote mixed use along major roadways such as US 31 and called the parcel generally appropriate for reinvestment. The staff report described adjacent uses — the Redwood PUD to the north, Briar Hill PUD to the south and the Whiteland wastewater treatment plant to the west — and said approximately 16 acres of the 20.8 acres lie outside the mapped floodplain.

Commissioners questioned site access, sequencing and how commercial outlots would be served. Petitioner and staff said the conceptual plan reserves commercial frontage along US 31, with residential uses to the west, and noted additional detailed plats and engineering would be required if the PUD concept is approved.

The commission voted 7–0 to forward a favorable recommendation to the Town Council with several conditions addressing road dedication, pedestrian improvements, sewer fees and development standards. The council will make the final decision on rezoning.