HomeMy WebLinkAboutRum Village Neighborhood Plan (2022) ReducedRum Village Neighborhood Plan
Adopted October 2022
Acknowledgments
James Mueller, Mayor, City of South BendEli Wax, City Council Member, 5th District Sheila Niezgodski, City Council Member, 6th District
Special thanks to all the residents, area organizations and institutions that shared their
thoughts and vision for the future of the Kennedy Park Neighborhood.
Department of Community InvestmentTim Corcoran, Director of Planning and Community ResourcesMichael Divita, Principal Planner Chris Dressel, Senior PlannerAndrew Netter, Senior PlannerAngela Rose, Senior Planner
Planning ConsultantsMcNicholas Architects | MGLM
Table of
Contents
03 What is a Plan?
04 Neighborhood Background
08 Planning Process & Engagement
10 What We Heard
12 Neighborhood Planning Principles
13 Scale of Development
14 Neighborhood Plan
24 Streets & Transportation
28 Housing
30 Sustainability
31 Preserve Historic Character
32 Built Form & Zoning
38 Implementation
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 3
What is a Plan?
What is a Plan?
A neighborhood plan is a shared statement
about the desired long-term future for that area
and a strategy to reach those goals. Developed
through a public engagement process, a plan is a
guide for:
• Making decisions about what kind of
development and services are appropriate,
• How resources should be allocated, and
• How issues residents, business and property
owners, and others in the neighborhood are
concerned about could be addressed.
Created in the context of the needs and priorities
of the larger region, a neighborhood plan focuses
on assets and challenges unique to that specific
area. Neighborhood plans seek to create a more
livable urban place that is attractive, healthy,
equitable, and sustainable for current and future
generations.
Once adopted, a neighborhood plan becomes
official city policy as an amendment to the City’s
Comprehensive Plan.
Neighborhood plans typically identify strategies
to be implemented over the next 20+ years for the
following topics:
• Public facilities and infrastructure (including
parks, streets, sidewalks, bicycle facilities,
lighting, and utilities),
• Housing (types, condition, and affordability),
• Zoning (building types and design, density,
and locations for residential, commercial,
industrial, and mixed-use development), and
• Other matters important to the
neighborhood.
What does it include? Who is it for?
• Neighborhood residents will use the plan to
understand proposed initiatives in the short,
medium, and long terms.
• Developers, builders, and other individuals
will use the plan to help determine the type,
scale, intensity, and location of projects.
• Public officials and community leaders will
use the plan to direct funding and to make
decisions on zoning issues.
• City staff will use the plan to understand
key neighborhood issues and as a guide to
implementing priority projects and initiatives.
How is it used?
A neighborhood plan provides a broad
framework for future initiatives, and it serves
as a starting point for more detailed planning
and public engagement as individual projects
are pursued. A plan will continually evolve to
meet the changing needs and context of the
community.
The maps, diagrams, photographs, and other
graphics presented within a neighborhood plan
are illustrations of its key features. These images
are not intended to represent the exact results
expected from the implementation of the plan,
but they provide a general representation of
development principles, desired building types,
land use, infrastructure, and other elements that
the plan establishes.
The specific scope, final form, and timing of
neighborhood plan initiatives will depend
on market demand, the interest of private
organizations and individuals, available
resources, and direction from further public
engagement.
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 4
The Rum Village Neighborhood Plan focuses on the area generally
bounded by the railroad tracks north of Indiana Avenue on the
north, Main Street on the east, Ewing Avenue on the south, and
Olive Street on the west but also covers the area stretching south
to Chippewa Avenue and southwest to the Saint Joseph Valley
Parkway.
Plan Area
Ewing Avenue
Indiana Avenue
Prairie
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Chippewa AvenueOlive StreetRenewable RoadNeighborhood Background
Rum Village Neighborhood Boundary Map.
Rum Village Neighborhood Context Map.
Neighborhood Background
Locust RoadGertrude StreetFOCUS AREA
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 5
Neighborhood Background
Rum Village Park: Popular regional park;
has limited pedestrian access from the
neighborhood and limited pedestrian
trails within park
Existing Conditions
Rum Village ParkRum Village Park
Pure Green Pure Green
FarmsFarms
South Bend South Bend
EthanolEthanol
Walker Field: Neighborhood recreational
space; park lacking amenities; historic
shelterhouse in disrepair
National Guard National Guard ArmoryArmory
Our Lady of Hungary Church and
School: Neighborhood anchor; area
lacking open space for events; traffic
travels quickly on Calvert Street
Prairie Prairie
ApartmentsApartments
Four Winds Four Winds CasinoCasino
Rum Village Rum Village
Mountain Mountain
Bike TrailsBike Trails
TRANSPOTRANSPO
Ignition ParkIgnition Park
Our Lady of HungaryOur Lady of Hungary
South Side Little South Side Little League ParkLeague Park
Oliver ApartmentsOliver Apartments
Industrial Uses: Underutilized industrial
sites
Ewing Avenue
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Indiana Avenue
Olive StreetLocust RoadGertrude StreetWalnut StreetCalvert Street
Dubail Avenue
Donald Street
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Indiana Avenue: Historically mixed-use
corridor with vacant industrial land to
the north; prioritizes vehicle traffic over
pedestrians
Gertrude Street: Mountain bike trails
provide regional draw; difficult for users
to load/unload due to lack of off-street
parking
Prairie Avenue: Major
northeast–southwest roadway
which prioritizes vehicle traffic
over pedestrian comfort;
scattered neighborhood-scale
commercial development
Industrial: Sites for industrial
development
Suburban Housing: Mainly
suburban styled housing
Pokagon Land: Regional
draw for tourism; serves tribal
community in South Bend
Minor Street
Major Street
Neighborhood Focus Area
Park
Landmark
St. Joseph Valley Parkway
Bowman Creek
Indiana Avenue
Main StreetTraditional Housing: Urban
style housing in traditional
architectural styles such as
Craftsman, Bungalow, American
Four Square, and post-WWII
ranches.
Immanuel United Immanuel United
Methodist ChurchMethodist ChurchKemble Avenue
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 6
Neighborhood Background
Neighborhood Character
Top Row (left to right): Calvert Street, Walker Field Shelterhouse, Our Lady of Hungary, Indiana Avenue.
Middle Row (left to right): Indiana Avenue, Four Winds Casino, Rum Village Park, Indiana Avenue.
Bottom Row (left to right): National Guard Armory, Indiana Avenue, South Bend Ethanol Plant, Immanuel United Methodist Church.
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 7
Neighborhood Data
30%
38%
26%
6%
< $25,000
$25,000 - $50,000
$100,000 - $200,000
$50,000 - $100,000
Average Household Income: $44,441
30%31%21%18%
Number of Households: 2,178
Under 5
5-19
20-39
40-64
65+
7%
24%
29%
31%
9%
Median Age: 31.1 Years Old
Two or More Races15%
Other Race16%
White35%
Black32%
Asian1%
Native American2%6,050
People
5000
6000
7000
8000
1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020
5,000
6,000
7,000
7,063
5,267
6,050
6,545
5,612 5,641
6,099
YearPopulation
Source: 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates.
All figures are from the 2020 Census and are based on Census Tracts 28 and 34, which approximate the Rum Village Neighborhood, unless otherwise noted.
31%Hispanic or Latino
2,592Total Housing
Units
Renter Occupied1,139 Housing Units
Vacant414 Housing Units
Owner Occupied1,039 Housing Units
Vacant16%
Renter Occupied44%
Owner Occupied40%
Percentage of households within each household income range
Household IncomeHousing
Race and Hispanic OriginPopulationAge
Household Size
Neighborhood Background
Source: 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates.Source: 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates.
Average Household Size: 2.68 people
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 8
Planning Process & Engagement
The City of South Bend developed this plan
through a process that engaged residents,
businesses, institutions, government agencies,
and other neighborhood stakeholders. The
planning process included online surveys, key
stakeholder interviews, and in-person/virtual
workshops that gathered critical information
about the Rum Village Neighborhood’s existing
conditions, needs, and opportunities. This
engagement provided the basis for this plan.
During the planning process, the City provided
updates to the neighborhood organization, Plan
Commission, and Common Council.
Overview March - June AprilMarch 2021
Planning Process & Engagement
Outreach Methods
The City used a series of outreach methods
throughout the planning process to encourage
participation. These methods included
mailings to over 5,600 residents and property
owners, e-mail lists, press releases, water bill
announcements, posters, yard signs, door
hangers, presentations to neighborhood
associations, and attendance at other community
events.
Together South Bend
The City created an online engagement
platform called Together South Bend that
allowed residents to participate in the planning
process from anywhere and at any time by using
interactive mapping tools and surveys, Together
South Bend mirrored the methods of collecting
feedback traditionally seen at public meetings.
The platform included an overview of the process
and planning exercises about infrastructure,
housing, open space, and quality of life topics, all
available in both English and Spanish.
Stakeholder Meetings
The City’s Planning staff conducted 13 virtual
meetings with neighborhood stakeholders.
Stakeholders included neighborhood
associations, community and nonprofit
organizations, faith-based institutions,
businesses, developers, City departments, and
City Council representatives. These conversations
began to outline general themes and potential
focus areas for the neighborhood plan.
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 9
Planning Process & Engagement
October August 2022 September
Visioning Workshop AdoptionPriorities Workshop Open House
Two identical visioning workshops, each held in
person and virtually, focused on understanding
the neighborhood and its vision for the
future. Participants were asked big-picture
questions and completed exercises on topics
such as housing, infrastructure, land use and
building form, neighborhood amenities, and
neighborhood specific issues.
At the neighborhood priorities workshop,
participants confirmed that the data gathered
from the online engagement platform and
the visioning workshops were complete and
represented their ideas. The community was
then asked to prioritize potential neighborhood
initiatives. This helped prepare the framework
and priorities outlined in this plan.
After a draft neighborhood plan document was
created, the City held an open house to present
it to neighborhood stakeholders and ask for
feedback.
Following public hearings, the Plan Commission
and Common Council adopted the Near West
Side Neighborhood Plan as an amendment to the
Comprehensive Plan. This Plan now serves as the
City’s official policy for the area.
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 10
Improve Walker Field
Add pedestrian connection between Walker
Field Park and Rum Village Park
Encourage development of neighborhood
businesses
Add neighborhood community center and/or
gathering space
Promote and build neighborhood identity
Clean up litter and illegal dumping
What We Heard
Following are the main ideas expressed during the public engagement process for the Rum Village Neighborhood. The items in bold were identified as priority projects at the public workshops.
Calm traffic along the following streets:
• Indiana Avenue
• Ewing Avenue
• Prairie Avenue
• Kemble Avenue
• Donald Street
Create consistent lighting of streets
Repair curbs and sidewalks
Add more protected and shared use trails
Plant street trees where possible
Complete intersection improvements to improve
pedestrian safety
Construct shared use trail and crossings on
Ewing Avenue
Update zoning map to allow for wider variety
of housing types
Promote neighborhood scale (corner store)
businesses on Indiana Avenue and Prairie
Avenue
Promote and expand home repair program
Diversify housing types, especially by adding
missing middle housing
Preserve and expand affordable housing
options
Identify homes needing repair through code
enforcement
Promote infill housing opportunities in
neighborhood
Meet demand for market-rate housing,
including single-family and missing middle
Promote home ownership and provide owner-
occupied housing repair grants
Streets & Transportation Housing Built Form & Zoning Other Amenities
What We Heard
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 11
Individuals complete the Priority Rating Exercise at one of the Rum Village Neighborhood Plan Workshops.
What We Heard
Some of the input provided from the workshops.
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 12
The characteristics described below serve as the guiding principles for the development of the Rum Village Neighborhood Plan. These principles were formed through the neighborhood planning process.
Urban Attractive Healthy Equitable Sustainable12345
Neighborhood Planning Principles
Neighborhood Planning Principles
Indiana Avenue looking west.Walker Field.
The neighborhood’s physical
environment is thoughtfully
managed to make it desirable,
competitive, and vibrant. The
neighborhood features well
maintained buildings and
properties, safe streets for all
users, quality public spaces, and
a memorable, unique identity.
The neighborhood encourages
an active lifestyle for residents
and visitors, regardless of age
or ability, through engaging
open spaces and comfortable
transportation options. Access to
nutritious, fresh, and affordable
food. The neighborhood is free
of pollution that would notably
impact its residents.
The neighborhood’s housing
accommodates the unique
needs, desires, and income
levels of all households. Historic
disinvestment is addressed
through zoning reform and
increased private and public
investment promoting recovery.
The neighborhood fully uses
its existing infrastructure,
preserves and reuses structures
of historical and/or architectural
significance, implements
sensible environmental
policies, and is committed to
reducing its carbon footprint.
The neighborhood is resilient,
including by being prepared for
the effects of climate change.
The neighborhood is walkable,
has a network of well-connected
streets and blocks, and a variety
of public spaces. It contains
a range of housing types that
draws people from all economic
levels. Amenities such as
stores, schools, healthcare,
entertainment, parks, cultural
institutions, and places of
worship are within a convenient
distance.
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 13
Scale of Development
This plan refers to low-, medium-, and high-density development. Below are illustrations of the scale of each for the Rum Village Neighborhood. Each scale of development incorporates and builds upon the
scale below to help create a diversity of housing options.
Scale of Development
Medium-density areas would include buildings of this scale, as well as buildings from the low-density category.
High-density areas would include buildings of this scale, as well as buildings from the medium-density category.
Low-Density
Medium-Density
High-Density
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 14
1 Renewable Road AreaSupport coordinated development of greenhouses for food production and other industrial uses.
Suburban Commercial DevelopmentFill vacant and underutilized lots with well-designed commercial development that addresses the street.
Prairie Avenue - Olive Street AreaRedevelop vacant and underutilized lots with coordinated commercial development along Prairie Avenue, with medium-density residential development to the north as market warrants.
Prairie AvenueComplete streetscape improvements including a shared use path along Prairie Avenue.
Rum Village Park ExpansionExplore potential long-term expansion of Rum Village Park.
Infill HousingFill vacant and underutilized lots with low- to medium-density residential development.
Walker FieldEnhance amenities at park following a more detailed park master plan process; repurpose Walker Field Shelterhouse; construct crosswalk to Rum Village Park.
Our Lady of Hungary PlazaExplore creation of green space between Our Lady of Hungary church and school; complete streetscape improvements to slow traffic on Calvert Street.
Dubail Street - Kemble Avenue AreaFill vacant lot with low- to medium-density residential development.
Indiana AvenueCreate “Main Street” environment on Indiana Avenue; complete streetscape project; Revitalize commercial facades; fill vacant lots on south side with commercial and mixed-use development; develop north side of street with light industrial uses having active frontages.
Indiana Avenue - Prairie Avenue AreaFill vacant and underutilized lots with medium-density commercial and mixed-use development.
Rum Village ParkEnhance park amenities following a more detailed park master plan process; provide improved pedestrian access inside the park and between Rum Village Park and Walker Field; improve user access to mountain bike trails.
Intersection ImprovementsPrairie Avenue - Olive StreetPrairie Avenue - Ewing AvenueEwing Avenue Park Connection Walnut Street - Prairie AvenueWalnut Street - Indiana AvenuePrairie Avenue - Dubail Street - Oliver StreetPrairie Avenue - Indiana AvenueIndiana Avenue - Kemble Avenue
Traffic Calming & Streetscape ImprovementsPrairie AvenueEwing AvenueCalvert StreetWalnut StreetIndiana AvenueKemble Avenue
Infrastructure
Shared Use PathPrairie Avenue TrailEwing Avenue Trail, with access to parks
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The following is a list of Rum Village Neighborhood project ideas which may be pursued by the City, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector over the next 20 years. More information on the concepts
listed below can be found on the following pages.
Ewing Avenue TrailComplete streetscape improvements; construct a shared use path along Ewing Avenue from Prairie Avenue to Main Street; provide improved access to Walker Field and Rum Village Park.
14
Industrial ReuseEncourage industrial reuse and remediation of industrial area.15
Pokagon LandCoordinate use of land as an entertainment destination, place for housing and other uses established by tribal land use planning.
Neighborhood Plan
Neighborhood Plan
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 15
7
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Ewing Avenue
Indiana Avenue
Calvert StreetKemble AvenueMain StreetDubail Street
4
Edward Street
1
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4 5
See Detail Below
3
5
6
14
7
76
11
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15
13Indiana Avenue
Calvert Street
Low Density Residential Industrial
Industrial
Rum Village Park
South Bend ArmoryWalnut StreetGertrude Street8
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Prairie Avenue
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 16
Neighborhood Plan
Renewable Road Area | Site 1 Pokagon Land | Site 2
The area along Calvert Street can host a concentration of high-tech greenhouses that support
environmentally friendly local food production, plus other industrial uses.
The Pokagon Band tribal land can be further enhanced as a major entertainment destination. Tribal
housing, services, and land preserves that meet the goals of the tribe can also be located there.
Four Winds Casino.Pure Green greenhouse building.
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 17
Neighborhood Plan
Shared use path along Prairie Avenue
A
B
C
Commercial development
Medium-density residential development
Low-density residential development
D
E
Reestablish the street grid including alleyways
F
Medium- to high-density residential development
Prairie Avenue Commercial Development | Sites 3, 4, 5
Between Ewing Avenue and the St. Joseph Valley Parkway, Prairie Avenue can feature a blend of commercial and low- to medium-density
residential development, all linked by a shared use path on the southeast side of the street. While suburban in form, new commercial
development can be well designed, have modest setbacks with attractive landscaping, and be coordinated with surrounding properties
and Four Winds Casino. If existing property owners were interested in redeveloping their lots, the area between Ewing Avenue, Olive Street,
Prairie Avenue, and Kaley Street can support a mix of housing types on a fully developed network of streets, sidewalks, and alleys. Medium-
density residential development of up to 3 stories can taper to lower-density of 1-2 stories as one moves away from Prairie Avenue. Additional
medium-density residential development of 2-3 stories can be constructed south of Prairie Avenue behind the commercial development.
B
C
A
D
E
F
Prairie AvenueKaley StreetEwing Avenue
Locust RoadOlive StreetPrairie Avenue commercial development plan concept with housing option.
A
F
Prairie AvenueKaley StreetEwing Avenue
Locust RoadOlive StreetPrairie Avenue commercial development plan concept.
Prairie Avenue commercial and shared use path facing southwest.
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 18
Walker Field, Rum Village Park, and Ewing Avenue Trail | Sites 8, 9, 10
Walker Field and Rum Village Park can be active, well connected recreational hubs
serving the neighborhood and the broader community. A public master planning process
led by the South Bend Department of Venues, Parks, and Arts can be completed for the
two parks to determine future amenities, including a restoration and repurposing of the
Walker Field Shelterhouse and a potential community center. Ewing Avenue can receive
streetscape improvements to calm traffic. A shared use path can be added to the south
side of the street, and a pedestrian connection can link Walker Field to Rum Village Park.
Rum Village Park can have improved active transportation links through the park and
along its edges, including to the mountain bike course.
A
B
C
Shared use path
Improved safety for pedestrian crossing
Improved connectivity between Walker Field
and Rum Village Park
B C
A
D
D Enhanced park amenities
Neighborhood Plan
Ewing Avenue
Donald Street
Walker Field and Ewing Avenue concept.
Rum Village Park Expansion
| Site 6
Industrial Reuse | Site 7
If the industrial uses south of Rum Village Park were to cease
or be reduced, the park can expand into that area to offer
additional recreational opportunities and environmental
benefits.
Existing industrial sites west of Main Street can continue to be
used for industrial purposes. Properties can be redeveloped,
including addressing brownfield concerns, as necessary.Webster StreetWalnut Street
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 19
Neighborhood Plan
Concept for Walker Field Shelterhouse (left), Ewing Avenue Trail (center) and connection to Rum Village Park (right).
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 20
Our Lady of Hungary Plaza | Site 12
A publicly accessible space lined with shade trees can be created within the Chapin Street right-of-way between the Our Lady of Hungary
church and school buildings. The space, which can be used for both community events and school programming, can include a safe
and accessible playground for students and residents. In front of this space, Calvert Street can receive traffic calming improvements to
enhance pedestrian safety, especially during school drop-off and pick-up.
A
B
C
Traffic calming
Plaza / green space
Parking in rear
B
C
A
Neighborhood Plan
Calvert Street
Bruce Street
Catalpa StreetPublic space at Our Lady of Hungary Church and School concept.Our Lady of Hungary public space, looking north.
Infill Housing | Site 11
Vacant lots through the neighborhood can be filled with low- to
medium-density residential development, including detached
houses, duplexes, fourplexes, and townhouses of 1-2 stories.Kendall StreetBruce Street
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 21
The area northeast of Kemble Avenue and Dubail Street can hold medium- to high-density residential development, such as
townhouses or apartment buildings of 2-3 stories, that frame the streets. Parking should be screened from the street with trees and
greenery. Improved pedestrian crossings on Dubail Avenue at Kemble Avenue and Catalpa Street.
Dubail Street - Kemble Avenue Area | Site 13
Neighborhood Plan
Dubail Street - Kemble Avenue residential development.
Dubail Street - Kemble Avenue area concept.
A
B
Medium- to high-density residential development
Parking in rear
B
AKemble AvenueDubail Street
Indiana Avenue
Catalpa Street
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 22
Neighborhood Plan
Prairie Avenue - Indiana Avenue | Site 14
The area around the Prairie Avenue - Indiana Avenue intersection can become an active, attractive neighborhood node. Existing buildings
can be rehabilitated and new commercial or mixed-use buildings of about two stories can fill vacant lots and line the streets. Streetscape
improvements can slow traffic while adding street trees and improved lighting. Shared use paths can run on the east side of Prairie Avenue
and the north side of Indiana Avenue to provide comfortable connections for people on foot or bicycle.
Prairie Avenue - Indiana Avenue concept.
B
A
A
B
C Parking internal to block
Commercial development addresses the street
Industrial development
C
Indiana Avenue
Prairie AvenueKemble AvenuePrairie Avenue- Indiana Avenue site concept.
A
B
C
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 23
Indiana Avenue | Site 15
Indiana Avenue can be reestablished as the heart of the Rum Village
Neighborhood, with a walkable blend of small local businesses, medium- to
high-density residential development of 2-4 stories, and other uses in a “main
street” environment. Existing buildings can receive façade improvements,
including restoration of storefronts where present. Over time, new structures
can fill vacant lots on the south side of Indiana Avenue. The north side of
the street can feature light industrial development, mixed commercial/
industrial development, medium- to high-density residential development, or
institutional uses. Streetscape improvements, including a shared use path on
the north side of Indiana Avenue, can calm traffic, while street trees, lighting,
and other pedestrian-focused amenities can add to the atmosphere.
A
B
C
Medium- to high-density commercial and mixed-use development
Industrial, mixed commercial, institutional, or high-density
residential development
Parking internal to block
Neighborhood Plan
B
C
AB
B
A
B
C
Edward Street
Indiana AvenueKemble AvenueScott StreetIndiana Avenue concept.
Indiana Avenue streetscape.
B
C C
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 24
Streets & Transportation
Throughout the planning process, participants
frequently noted the need to address the
condition of streets, alleys, sidewalks, and
lighting within the Rum Village Neighborhood.
As these types of infrastructure improvements
are important to every neighborhood in South
Bend, they should be addressed on a citywide
scale according to condition, funding, and current
priorities.
Yet, this plan does identify places to receive
improvements beyond general maintenance. The
project list that follows was developed based on
input gathered at neighborhood workshops, from
311 calls to the City of South Bend, and planning
and engineering considerations.
Changes to streets in the Rum Village
Neighborhood should be improved in
accordance with South Bend’s Complete Street
policy. The use of streets by people on foot and
bicycle is prioritized over high-speed vehicle
travel. Street improvements should support the
use of the Transpo bus system, including by
improving the comfort of bus stops.
Streetscape Improvements & Traffic Calming
Intersection improvements are projects to
improve safety, often by reducing excessive
pavement widths and enhancing pedestrian
crossings.
Priority Areas
During the planning process, participants
were asked a series of questions about
streets, bicycle infrastructure, and other
infrastructure topics.
Intersection Improvements
Calvert Street
Kemble Avenue
Traffic calming involves small-scale interventions
to alter the physical design of a street to improve
safety for motorists and people on foot or
bicycles.
Priority Areas
Traffic Calming
Prairie Avenue
Ewing Avenue
Walnut Street
Indiana Avenue
Priority Areas
Streetscape Improvements
Prairie Avenue - Olive Street
Prairie Avenue - Ewing Avenue
Ewing Avenue Parks Connection
Walnut Street - Prairie Avenue
Walnut Street - Indiana Avenue
Prairie Avenue - Dubail Street - Oliver Street
Prairie Avenue - Indiana Avenue
Indiana Avenue - Kemble Avenue
Streets & Transportation
of respondents stated they
walk in the neighborhood
stated improved lighting would
encourage them to walk more.
stated improved crossings would
encourage them to walk more.
Streetscape improvements are large-scale
projects that may:
• have significant traffic and aesthetic impacts;
• include changes to street pavement width,
the full replacement of driveway approaches,
curbs, and sidewalks;
• upgrade street trees and lighting; and
• include traffic calming elements.
49% 40% 60%
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 25
Streets & Transportation
Ewing AvenuePrairi
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Prairie Avenue - Ewing Avenue intersection improvement concept.
Streetscape Improvements
Intersection Improvements
Traffic Calming
Streets Map Key
Locust RoadGertrude StreetWalnut StreetOlive Street
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 26
Streets & Transportation
Bicycle Infrastructure
Following is a list of bicycle-related projects, including shared
bicycle-pedestrian paths, proposed for the Rum Village
Neighborhood.
Shared Use Path (Trail)
Ewing Avenue
Prairie Avenue
Indiana Avenue
Main Street
Prairie Avenue - Main Street
St. Joseph Parkway - Edward Street
Prairie Avenue - Main Street
Indiana Avenue - Chippewa Avenue
Route Extent
stated designated bicycle infrastructure
would encourage them to bike more.
During the planning process, participants were asked a
series of questions about bicycle infrastructure.
of respondents stated they bike
in the neighborhood
Walk Score46
Bike Score45
Source: Walkscore.com; Score at Calvert and Chapin
Streets.
Walk Score & Bike Score
17% 37%
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 27
Streets & Transportation
Shared Use Path (Trail)
Protected Bike Lane
Bike Lane
Shared On-Street
Shared Use Path (Trail)
Protected Bike Lane
Bike Lane
Shared On-StreetExistingProposed Shared Use Path
Protected Bike Lane
Bike Lane
Off-street facility shared by
people on foot and bicycles
Designated lane for bicyclists
within the street normally
marked with a painted line
and cyclist symbol.
Ewing Avenue
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Streets Map Key Main StreetFacility separated from motor
vehicle traffic by a curb,
planter, or other physical
barriers for the exclusive use
of people on bicyclesLocust RoadGertrude StreetChippewa AvenueOlive StreetMichigan Street
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 28
Housing
Housing
Market Challenges Missing Middle
A mix of housing types and price points can
mean that housing is available for people of all
means. One way to support this mix is through
“missing middle” housing. Missing middle
housing is a range of house-scale buildings with
multiple units — compatible in scale and form
with detached single-family houses — located in
a walkable neighborhood. This housing is called
“missing” because zoning regulations had made
it difficult or impossible to build over the last half-
century and “middle” because it sits in the middle
of a spectrum between detached single-family
houses and mid-rise to high-rise apartment
buildings, in terms of form, scale, number of
units, and often, affordability.
Often seen in South Bend in the form of
duplexes, townhouses, and small apartment
buildings, missing middle housing can be found
in parts of the Rum Village Neighborhood.
Many types offer opportunities for ownership
and for the amenities that can be found
in detached houses or in large apartment
buildings. The South Bend Zoning Ordinance
has been reformed to promote missing middle
housing, but changes to the zoning map for the
neighborhood can further encourage these units.
The Rum Village Neighborhood has a strong and
diverse collection of housing, but it must be kept
in good repair to ensure the area’s quality. Housing
repair assistance programs can be offered to assist
owner occupants maintain their homes. Code
Enforcement can ensure that houses and their yards
are kept in acceptable condition; in particular, the
City’s Rental Safety Verification Program Code can
assure a level of quality for rental housing units.
Housing Repair and Quality
A range of housing strategies will help ensure the Rum Village Neighborhood as a successful, diverse, mixed-income area.
For much of the Rum Village Neighborhood,
the cost of constructing new housing is greater
than the appraised value of the property once
it is completed. This financial gap is a barrier to
the financing and construction of new housing,
especially market-rate units, in the area.
Several tactics can be employed to help close
the gap. Multi-unit housing can usually be built
at a lower cost per unit than detached houses.
Additionally, pre-approved building plans for
residential structures, a detached accessory
dwelling unit revolving loan fund, grants to
replace sewer and water laterals, low-cost land
through land banks, and building adjacent to
stronger market areas are among the potential
ways to make new construction of attainable
housing units possible.
Housing providers, both for-profit and nonprofit,
can use tax credits, government grants, and
other financing tools to rehabilitate or build new
housing units for lower-income households.77%
of respondents stated that
home repairs are the
greatest housing need in
Kennedy Park.
Prairie Avenue house.
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 29
Housing
Housing construction should be targeted to vacant lots on
existing infrastructure in the focus area. The planning area
also offers the opportunity for well-designed suburban-scale
residential development. Such areas should be built near
existing infrastructure and services around Prairie Avenue -
Olive Street intersection.
Areas of Priority
Ewing AvenuePrairi
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Edwards Street
Main StreetLocust RoadGertrude StreetNew Suburban Construction
Priority Areas
Housing Priority Areas
Housing Infill Priority Areas
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 30
Green Infrastructure
• Allow an appropriate
mixing of land uses to
reduce the amount of
travel required.
• Add new bike lanes and
improve walkability to
allow more people to
safely bike and walk,
reducing vehicle-related
emissions.
• Increase the number of
trees planted to improve
the energy efficiency of
buildings by lowering the
energy needed to heat or
cool a building.
• Plant street trees to help
extend the useful life
of street pavement due
to increased shading of
pavement.
Green infrastructure plays a central role in improving air,
soil, and water quality, by reducing energy use in buildings,
supporting the capturing and use of carbon, and improving
stormwater filtration.
• Rehabilitate existing
structures to reduce
carbon emissions and
construction waste.
• Reuse materials or
select lower-carbon
building materials when
constructing new housing.
• Reduce paved surfaces in
the neighborhood to help
lower stormwater run off,
improve water quality, and
reduce vulnerability to the
urban heat island effect.
• Seek to have water be
absorbed where it falls
instead of transferred off
site for processing.
South Bend is committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2050, and each neighborhood has a role to play in reducing the community’s emissions. The projects put forward in the Rum Village Neighborhood
Plan support the City’s sustainability goals related to green infrastructure, built environment, and clean transportation.
Built Environment Transportation
Transportation represents one of the largest sources of
emissions in our community, so making biking, walking, transit,
and other forms of shared mobility more accessible to residents
is critical.
Reducing energy use in South Bend will significantly cut
greenhouse gas emissions.
• Encourage urban
residential infill and the use
of existing public utilities
and infrastructure to
reduce the need to extend
services into rural areas.
• Promote the use of
solar panels for energy
generation.
• Construct shared use
paths, which put less
stress on the existing street
infrastructure, ultimately
reducing the frequency of
street repair.
• Promote public
transportation, which
compared to driving alone,
reduces emissions and
improves air quality.
Sustainability
Sustainability
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 31
Preserve Historic Character
The Rum Village Neighborhood has structures that reflect its
diverse cultural history and various architectural building styles.
To maintain the unique characteristics of the neighborhood, the
following actions are recommended:
• Complete stabilization of the Walker Field Shelterhouse and
plan for its future use.
• Preserve the historic character of individually designated local
landmarks and other historic structures.
• Provide information on the benefits of listing buildings on the
National Register of Historic Places.
• Use financial incentives of National Register designation to
complete building rehabilitations. Locally designated historic
structures / sitesFocus Area Boundary
Preserve Historic Character Key
Nationally designated historic
structures
Preserve Historic Character
Toth State Bank
Walker WPA Field Shelterhouse Walker Field Shelterhouse.
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Main StreetGertrude StreetEwing Avenue Kemble Avenue
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 32
Built Form & Zoning
Intent
Overview
The built form of the Rum Village Neighborhood is guided by the South
Bend Zoning Ordinance, including its zoning map. The Ordinance is a
local law that governs the physical development of property, both the
form and scale of buildings, and the specific use of land.
The future zoning map within this section proposes how each lot within
the Rum Village Neighborhood should be zoned following adoption
of this plan. Over time, property within the neighborhood should be
allowed to proceed gradually to the next increment of development.
Combined with the regulations found within the South Bend Zoning
Ordinance, the aim of the future zoning map is to maintain and enhance
the Rum Village Neighborhood’s pedestrian-oriented, urban environment
within the neighborhood focus area. Vehicle access should be from
alleys when present. Drive-throughs are discouraged within the
neighborhood focus area. Outside of the focus area, drive-throughs are
permissible but should be designed in a manner to limit their negative
impacts. New development should include good street connectivity,
including construction of platted streets that have not been built.
This plan seeks to allow a greater quantity and diversity in housing units;
doing so will permit people to find housing that meets their price ranges
and lifestyle needs within the neighborhood. New housing should be
carefully designed and located to support and positively influence
neighborhood character. Ancillary dwelling units, such as carriage
houses or backyard cottages, are encouraged for the Rum Village
Neighborhood.
The South Bend zoning map divides the city into twelve zoning districts.
Ten of these districts are proposed for the Rum Village Neighborhood as
follows: S1, S2, U1, U2, U3, UF, NC, OS, C and I.
Suburban Neighborhood 1S1 Suburban Neighborhood 2S2 Urban Neighborhood 1U1
Where It Is Appropriate
The S2 District is well suited for residential
properties along Prairie Avenue southwest
of Olive Street, including any potential
higher-density residential projects in the area
bounded by Ewing Avenue, Olive Street, Prairie
Avenue, and Kaley Street. S2 is not appropriate
for the focus area.
The S1 District is appropriate in the
southwestern section of the planning area, but
is not appropriate within the focus area which
is urban in character.
The U1 District is proposed for the vast
majority of the focus area. It may be extended
outside of the focus area to allow for more
dense development. This plan would support
special exceptions for new construction
duplexes.
Built Form & Zoning
The S1 Suburban Neighborhood 1 District
primarily supports single-unit residential
development on larger lots with deep
setbacks.
The U1 Urban Neighborhood 1 District
supports mostly single-unit detached
dwellings, but well designed duplexes would
also be appropriate. The U1 District features
modest building setbacks and inviting
frontages, such as porches and stoops.
The S2 District supports a full range of housing
types placed on large lots with deep setbacks.
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 33
Urban Neighborhood 2U2 Urban Neighborhood 3U3 Urban Neighborhood FlexUF Neighborhood CenterNC DowntownDT
The DT District would not be appropriate for
any areas in the Rum Village Neighborhood.
The NC District is well suited for parts of
Prairie Avenue and Indiana Avenue. NC zoning
should be focused at key nodes along major
thoroughfares in the neighborhood, but is not
appropriate throughout the neighborhood.
The UF District is proposed for scattered
locations along major transportation routes
in the Rum Village Neighborhood. The UF
District is appropriate for scattered locations
to support small-scale services and retail,
especially at intersections.
The U2 District is proposed for a few scattered
sites within the neighborhood, notably on
William Street and Prairie Avenue. This plan
would support rezoning additional properties
within the U1 District to the U2 District for
sensitively designed buildings of up to
four units built at a scale compatible with
surrounding residential properties.
The U3 District is proposed for portions of
Indiana Avenue, Dubail Street and Calvert
Avenue. Additional properties along
intersections or major streets may be
appropriate for U3 if limited to 6 units and 2.5
stories.
Built Form & Zoning
The DT Downtown District supports the
development of South Bend’s core into a high-
intensity, mixed use urban area.
The NC Neighborhood Center District supports
higher intensity, mixed-use urban centers,
often near the intersection of major streets.
Buildings usually have small or no setbacks
and can be up to four stories. In addition to
having higher concentrations of housing units,
these areas typically serve as the commercial
centers for their neighborhood.
The UF Urban Flex District supports a full
range of housing types, together with limited
small-scale commercial uses. Buildings
typically have small setbacks and are two to
four stories.
The U3 Urban Neighborhood 3 District
supports a full range of housing types, from
single-unit dwellings to large multi-unit
buildings, placed at small setbacks. Buildings
in the U3 District may be built up to four stories
in height.
The U2 Urban Neighborhood 2 District
provides for primarily detached houses and
duplexes, but it allows for neighborhood-scale
buildings of up to four units. Buildings have
modest setbacks and inviting frontages, such
as porches and stoops.
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 34
Open SpaceOS UniversityU CommercialC IndustrialI
Intent
Where It Is Appropriate
The C District is appropriate for well designed
projects within 250 feet of Prairie Avenue
southwest of Ewing Avenue; the properties
shown on the zoning map as S1 may thus
transition to C over time. Properties should
share drives and connect to one another to
minimize curb cuts. Sidewalks and designated
shared use paths should be built as properties
develop. The C District is not appropriate in the
focus area.
The I District is appropriate in the southern
and western parts of the planning area where
industries are currently situated. Properties
classified as I in the northeast corner of the
focus area, between Ignition Park and Indiana
Avenue, can be adapted to more compatible
land uses over time. If remaining in the I
District, any further development in this area
should be limited to light industrial uses and
be sensitive to surrounding land uses.
The OS District is appropriate for Walker Field,
Rum Village Park, and any new or expanded
public parks in the neighborhood.
The U District is not currently proposed for the
Rum Village Neighborhood.
The C Commercial District supports medium-
to high-intensity commercial uses that are
auto-oriented and found in suburban locations.
The I Industrial District supports medium-
to high-intensity industrial uses, typically
grouped along highways and major streets
and separated from residential uses.
The U University District supports the
development of university campuses.
The OS Open Space District supports the
development of public parks and other open
spaces.
Built Form & Zoning
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 35
W EWING AVES MORRIS STST
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Y S MAIN STS MICHIGAN STW P R A IR I E A V E
W INDIANA AVE
SCHAPINSTS LAFAYETTE BLVDE DONMOYER AVE
E WOODSIDE ST
E ECKMAN ST
E OAKSIDE ST
W DUBAIL AVE
S FELLOWS STE IRVINGTON ST
E INDIANA AVE
E EWING AVE
E BROADWAY ST
E FAIRVIEW AVE
E VICTORIA ST
E HANEY AVE
S WEBSTER STE ALTGELD STS KEMBLE AVESLOMBARDYDRS MEADE STS JACKSON STS ADDISON STSFELLOWSSTW CALVERT ST
S LINDEN RDS GLEN STS WALNUT STW BRUCE ST
S GERTRUDE STSSWYGARTSTS MAGNOLIA STS FRANKLIN STUS 31 HWYW DONALD ST
W EDWARD ST
W DUBAIL AVE
S PULASKI STSCATALPASTS NASH STW CALVERT ST
ECHIPPEWAAVE
W DELAWARE ST S KENDALL STSST.JOSEPHSTS GRANT STS CARROLL STS COLUMBIA STW INDIANA AVE
S WILLIAM STS TAYLOR STS SCOTT STST. JOSEPH VALLEY PKWY
E IRELAND RD
W CHIPPEWA AVE
E WALTER ST
W COTTERS T
E DONALD ST
E FOX ST
W IRELAND RDS EVERGREEN LNS OLIVE STSWHITCOMBAVES NEW ENERGY DRE BARBIE ST
W TUCKER DR
S WABASH STS PROSPECT STW IRELAND RD
W MEADOW LN
E TERISTS LOCUST RDSKALEYSTS MAIN STS MAPLE RDST.JOSEPHVALLEYRAMP
R U M VILLAGEDR
PRAIRIEFuture Zoning Map for Rum Village Neighborhood.
Built Form & Zoning
Focus Area
S1: Suburban 1
S2: Suburban 2
U1: Urban Neighborhood 1
U2: Urban Neighborhood 2
U3: Urban Neighborhood 3
UF: Urban Flex
NC: Neighborhood Center
OS: Open Space
C: Commercial
I: Industrial
Zoning Districts
Pokagon Land
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 36
Carriage House Detached House Cottage Court Duplex
S1
S2
U1
U2
U3
UF
NC
DT
Suburban Neighborhood 1
Suburban Neighborhood 2
Urban Neighborhood 1
Urban Neighborhood 2
Urban Neighborhood 3
Urban Neighborhood Flex
Neighborhood Center
Downtown
The table on the following pages illustrates the character of different building types and show in which zoning districts they are permitted. Building types do not apply to the OS, U, C, or I zoning districts,
Building Types
Cottage court photos (top to bottom):
michaelwatkinsarchitect.com
kerneyhomes.com
cottagecourt.com
S1S2U1 U2UFS1S1S2S2S2U1U2U2U2 U3U3U3U3 UFUFUFNCU1
Zoning Districts
Built Form & Zoning
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 37
Townhouse Apartment House Stacked Flats Shop Mid-Rise / Tower
U3 NC DTS2S2S2U2U2U3U3UFUFUFUFNCNCNCDTDTDTDT
Built Form & Zoning
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 38
Implementation
Implementation
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
Ewing Avenue: Complete streetscape improvements and traffic calming on Ewing
Avenue including a shared use path connecting Prairie Avenue to Walker Field and
Rum Village Park.
Indiana Avenue: Complete streetscape improvements on Indiana Avenue, including a
shared use path on the north side of the street. Improve intersections at Prairie Avenue,
Kemble Avenue, and Walnut Street.
Action 1-5 Years 5-10Years 10+ Years
Timeline
City Partner Key Partners
Lead Responsibility
1.6
1.7
Traffic Calming: Explore traffic calming interventions on priority streets in the
neighborhood.
Infrastructure Maintenance: Complete regular maintenance on streets and
sidewalks throughout the neighborhood.Property Owners
Rum Village Neighborhood Organization,
Residents, Property Owners
Rum Village Neighborhood Organization,
Residents, Property OwnersStreet Trees: Plant street trees where possible.
Promote Infrastructure Programs: Promote existing curb & sidewalk replacement
program to assist with the cost of replacement.
Prairie Avenue: Explore streetscape improvements on Prairie Avenue including a
shared use path. Improve intersections at Ewing Avenue, Dubail Street-Oliver Street,
and Olive Street.
INDOT
1.8
Walnut Street: Explore streetscape improvements on Walnut Street. Improve
intersection at Walnut Street and Indiana Avenue.
Strategy 1: Create a safe and attractive neighborhood through infrastructure improvements.
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 39
Implementation
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
Park Connections: Connect Rum Village Park and Walker Field Park to neighborhood
through an improved shared use path network.
Action 1-5 Years 5-10 Years 10+ Years
Timeline
City Partner Key PartnersLead Responsibility
Walker Field: Complete park improvements following a park master planning
process.
Action 1-5 Years 5-10 Years 10+ Years
Timeline
City Partner Key PartnersLead Responsibility
Develop Housing: Support the production of a range of housing types including new
construction and rehabilitation of market rate and affordable units for owner and rental
housing.
3.1
Zoning: Update neighborhood zoning map.3.2
3.3
Developers, Local Nonprofit Housing Providers,
City of South Bend
Tools: Explore mechanisms that can assist with the financial gap that impacts
housing development.3.4
Home Repair: Ensure housing is well maintained by offering owner-occupied housing
repair assistance and using code enforcement tools as necessary.Rum Village Neighborhood Organization,
Property Owners
Public Space near Our Lady of Hungary: Explore creation of publicly accessible
space at Our Lady of Hungary.Our Lady of Hungary Church and School
2.5
Rum Village Park: Complete park improvements following a park master planning
process.
2.6
Community Center: Explore feasibility of creating a community center, possibly
through a partnership.
Walker Field Shelterhouse: Complete stabilization work on shelterhouse; complete
renovation and explore reuse.
Strategy 3: Develop and preserve housing in the neighborhood.
Strategy 2: Improve park spaces and access.
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 40
Implementation
Action 1-5 Years 5-10 Years 10+ Years
Timeline
City Partner Key PartnersLead Responsibility
Capacity Building: Build neighborhood capacity through engagement of all
neighborhood residents.4.1
Neighborhood Events: Hold neighborhood events including celebrations of the
neighborhood.4.2
4.3
Rum Village Neighborhood Organization
Rum Village Neighborhood Organization,
Neighborhood Institutions
Communication: Develop and maintain communication with neighbors including
residents of rental housing.Rum Village Neighborhood Organization
4.4 Relationships: Foster relationships among the City, neighborhood institutions, and
the neighborhood organization.Rum Village Neighborhood Organization,
Neighborhood Institutions
5.1
5.2
5.3
Action Timeline
City Partner
Lead Responsibility 1-5 Years 5-10Years 10+ YearsPotential Partners
Brownfield: Work with federal, state, regional, and local governments to connect
property owners with resources to assess and remediate brownfield sites.
EPA, IDEM, MACOG, St. Joseph County,
Property Owners
Facade Grants: Promote facade improvement program for Indiana Avenue properties.
Industrial Lots: Investigate ways to reuse industrial properties.
Strategy 4: Develop sense of community through neighborhood engagement.
Strategy 5: Address underutilized properties in the neighborhood.
Rum Village Neighborhood Plan 41
Implementation
Action Timeline
City Partner
Lead Responsibility
6.1 Problem Properties: Utilize the Chronic Problem Properties regulations to reduce the
negative impact of problem properties on the neighborhood.
6.2
6.3
Rum Village Neighborhood Association
Rum Village Neighborhood AssociationCrime Stats Meeting: Attend Police monthly crime information meetings and report
back to neighborhood.
Property Owners
1-5 Years 5-10Years 10+ YearsPotential Partners
Street Lighting: Improve level of street lighting and trim trees that block street lights.
Strategy 6: Increase feeling of neighborhood safety.