Sell 4 Free Real Estate
Loogootee RDC Reviews Property Acquisitions, Development Plans, and Parking Concerns
The Loogootee Redevelopment Commission met this week to advance several local initiatives.
The first RDC meeting of the year focused on potential property acquisitions, housing
development plans, and long-standing parking and traffic issues in downtown Loogootee. In old
business, updated appraisals on three lots adjacent to a downtown flower shop were reviewed.
Negotiations with the property owner are ongoing, with the city interested in acquiring the
parcels to install a temporary façade and pursue future redevelopment. Discussions were
revisited about creating a small business incubator space, potentially using modular or
container buildings. Officials emphasized the need to balance redevelopment with parking for
nearby apartment buildings.
Significant discussion focused on a proposed residential development behind the car wash, the
former Shady Estates property. Officials met with developer Jake Miller and an engineering
team to outline early plans, including infrastructure requirements like road construction, traffic
flow improvements, and a voluntary annexation of the property into the city. Formal details are
expected to move forward after legal review, with rezoning and annexation votes expected
later this month.
The board discussed a proposed triplex development near the Subway restaurant and Los
Amigos. Concerns were raised over parking, setbacks, alley access, and traffic congestion.
Members stressed the importance of maintaining consistent zoning standards and ensuring
visibility and safety at corner lots.
The Commission reviewed broader priorities, including the potential use of funds from the sale
of city-owned property. They discussed future street widening projects, improved lighting north
of Butcher Boulevard to encourage investment, and long-range transportation planning
connected to state highway improvements.
Downtown parking emerged as a major concern, particularly with the arrival of Harvest Health
on the square. Limited parking, lack of parking enforcement in two-hour zones, and insufficient
handicap-accessible spaces were identified as challenges for residents, businesses, and
patients. Suggested long-term solutions included re-striping, acquiring nearby properties for
public parking, and exploring the purchase of railroad-owned land for conversion to a parking
lot.
The next Redevelopment Commission meeting will be held on Monday, February 5.
For more
information on these and other updates, visit www.loogootee.in.gov
- Drew Hasselbring