Bill No. 35-23 Department of Redevelopment City of South Bend Rezoning 900 S Franklin Dist 2

Home Browse Search

Staff Report-PC#0162-23 6/20/2023 Site & Context Land Uses and Zoning: On site: On site is a large undeveloped lot zoned I Industrial. North: Across Sample Street is the St. Joseph County Jail zoned I Industrial. East: Undeveloped lots zoned I Industrial. South: Two undeveloped lots zoned I Industrial. West: Across Franklin Street is a large undeveloped lot zoned I Industrial. District Intent: The U3 District is established to provide for, promote, and maintain the development of a full range of housing types located near neighborhood centers and along major streets in urban neighborhood centers and along major streets in urban neighborhoods in core and outlying areas of the City. Site Plan Description: The site will be developed based on the development standards of the district. Zoning and Land Use History and Trends: The surrounding area for the majority of its history was a mix of large-scale industrial uses - including the former Studebaker Factory Complex -as well as worker housing. Dense single family lined Lafayette Street south of Sample, typically occupied by workers of the Studebaker Corporation. After Studebaker's closure, the area began a slow decline as a large majority of the industrial buildings became vacant. At the same time, the intermixed residential properties were also abandoned and disinvested. Starting in the 1990's the City began to acquire and demolish many of the large former factories as well. Nearly all of the former residential properties along Lafayette and further south were demolished as well over time. Since the early 2000's, the area has seen slow redevelopment of properties for industrial and office uses. Traffic and Transportation Considerations: Franklin Street is a two lane street with on-street parking. Agency Comments Agency Comments: There are no additional comments at this time. Staff Comments: The rezoning of this property to U3 Urban Neighborhood 3 will revitalize a vacant industrial property and provide much needed housing on the south side of the downtown area. Criteria for Decision Making Rezoning Per State Law, the Plan Commission and Common Council shall pay reasonable regard to: 1. Comprehensive Plan: Policy Plan: The petition is consistent with the City Plan, South Bend Comprehensive Plan (2006), Objective H 1: Ensure that an adequate supply of housing is available to meet the needs, preferences, and financial capabilities of households now and in the future. SOUTH BEND PLAN COMMISSION Page 3 of 4