Redevelopment Commission Agenda & Packet 12.18.25 - Final

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CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – December 11, 2025 Page | 10 when factoring in construction—though that could change. For now, we’re taking small, deliberate steps to produce a strong application and prepare for future funding stages. Vice President Relos asked whether Amtrak already has operating rights on this rail line, noting that while trains can pass through, they are not currently permitted to stop—hence the existing stop in Michigan City. He added that, unlike the South Shore, which lacks rights on this line, Amtrak’s access makes Union Station a more feasible option. Ms. Doctor explained that the original platform was located between the two rail tracks, connected by a central tunnel beneath the station. The tunnel leads from the middle of the building under the tracks and up to the former platform area. The goal is to determine whether the platform can be rebuilt and whether the tunnel can be safely reactivated for passenger use. Leslie Biek, Assistant City Engineer, also added that a major part of the project will be ensuring ADA compliance. The original tunnel had steep slopes leading up to the platform, so we would likely need to add an elevator, or similar accessibility features to meet ADA standards. Commissioner Gooden-Rodgers inquired about if we do need to reapply for the grant, the next step—if we are not awarded funding—would be to continue seeking other grant opportunities. Ms. Biek explained that this isn’t a project the City can fully fund on its own, so additional external funding would be essential. However, we can still move forward with the feasibility work to strengthen future applications. Caleb Bauer also added that we always plan for multiple paths forward. The success of a project should never depend on a single funding source. While we’re optimistic about this round—especially given the strong funding available and positive feedback from the FRA—it isn’t our only option. If we aren’t awarded this grant, we’ll continue pursuing other programs and future funding rounds. Amtrak remains very interested, and we’re committed to advancing the project. In past federal grant cycles, we’ve often received guidance on how to strengthen our applications, and with those adjustments, we’ve been successful the next time around. Commissioner Shaw asked to clarify how long the feasibility analysis will take, as well as the deadline for the grant application, and how those timelines interact. Ms. Biek explained that the grant is due in early February. The feasibility work for the center platform will take about six months and require coordination with the railroad. Before submitting the grant, we hope to review historical documents to better understand the original conditions and what has changed since.