HomeMy WebLinkAboutRedevelopment Commission Agenda & Packet 03.12.26
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Agenda
Regular Meeting
March 12, 2026 – 9:30 a.m.
City Hall Council Chambers 3rd Floor or via:
https://tinyurl.com/RDC2025-2026-Meetings
Meeting Recording Link: https://tinyurl.com/RDC-Meeting-Recordings
1. Roll Call
• Troy Warner, President – (Council) Jan. 2026 to Dec. 2026
• Dave Relos, Vice President – (Mayor) Jan. 2026 to Dec. 2026
• Eli Wax, Secretary – (Mayor) Feb. 2026 to Dec. 2026
• Gillian Shaw, Commissioner – (Mayor) Jan. 2026 to Dec. 2026
• Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers, Commissioner – (Council) Feb. 2026 to Dec. 2026
• Marcus Ellison, Non-Voting Advisor – (School Board) Feb. 2026 to Dec. 2026
2. Approval of Minutes
A. Minutes of the Regular Meeting of February 12, 2026
B. Minutes of the Regular Meeting of February 26, 2026
3. Approval of Claims
A. Claims Allowance March 9, 2026
4. Old Business
A. None
5. New Business
A. South Side Development Area
1. Development Agreement (KCG Development LLC)
B. River West Development Area
1. Budget Request (Morris Garage Design)
2. Budget Request (Demo and Design River Glenn)
3. Resolution No. 3667 (Accepting Transfer of Real Property at 821 Portage
Ave & 808 Cushing St. from BPW)
4. Lease Agreement for Temporary Parking (Parking Lots at Wayne St. &
Lafayette Blvd and South of Lafayette Building)
C. River East Development Area
1. Budget Request (Demo of Former Qualex Building at 921 Louise St.)
2. Budget Request (Howard Park Bandshell Design)
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Page | 2
D. River East Residential Development Area
1. Budget Request (Riverwalk Improvements Seitz to Howard Phase 2)
6. Progress Reports
A. Tax Abatement
B. Common Council
C. Other
7. Next Commission Meeting
Thursday, March 26, 2026, 9:30 a.m. at Council Chambers, Room 301
8. Adjournment
NOTICE
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Auxiliary Aid or Other Services are Available upon Request at No Charge. Please Give
Reasonable Advance Request when Possible.
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Minutes
Regular Meeting
February 12, 2026 – 9:30 a.m.
City Hall Council Chambers 3rd Floor or via:
https://tinyurl.com/RDC2025-2026-Meetings
Meeting Recording Link: https://tinyurl.com/RDC-Meeting-Recordings
The South Bend Redevelopment Commission was called to order at 9:31 a.m.
President Troy Warner presiding.
1. ROLL CALL
Members Present: Troy Warner, President
Dave Relos, Vice President
Eli Wax, Secretary
Gillian Shaw, Commissioner
Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers, Commissioner
Marcus Ellison, Non-Voting Advisor
Legal Counsel: John Dorbin, City Attorney
Redevelopment Staff: Caleb Bauer, Executive Director, DCI
Erik Glavich, Director of Growth and Opportunity, DCI
Lewis Kouassi, Director of Finance, DCI
Joseph Molnar, Asst. Dir. of Growth and Opp., DCI
Erin Michaels, Property Development Manager, DCI
Tim Corcoran, Chief Planner, DCI
Michael Divita, Principal Planner, DCI- Virtual
Chris Dressel, Senior Planner, DCI - Virtual
Allison Doctor, Project Manager, DCI
Attending: Patrick Slebonick, 201 Chapin St.
Matt Barrett, 110 S. Niles Ave.
Juliane Balog, SB Tribune
S Fro, Notre Dame Ave.
Regina Emberton, 130 S. Main St.
Tina Patton, 707 Sherman Ave.
Nicolas Munsen, Legal Department
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – February 12, 2026
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2. Approval of Minutes
A. Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of Thursday, January 22, 2026
Upon a motion by Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers for approval, second by Eli Wax,
the motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved the minutes of
the regular meeting of January 22, 2026.
3. Approval of Claims
A. Claims Allowances January 3, 2026
Upon a motion by David Relos for approval second by Gillian Shaw, the
motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved the claims
allowances of January 22, 2026.
4. Old Business
A. None
5. New Business
A. River West Development Area
1. Public Hearing and Adopt Confirming Resolution No. 3664 (River West
Economic Development Area, New Allocation Areas for IDD)
Caleb Bauer, Executive Director of Community Investment, presented
both 5A1 and 5A2 together. These items represent the final steps in the
approval process for establishing the Innovation Development District
(IDD) and issuing the related economic development bonds for the Colfax
Corner ML LLC project.
Item 5A1 requires a public hearing and adoption of Resolution 3664,
previously approved by the Common Council with a favorable
recommendation from the Plan Commission. This resolution establishes
new TIF allocation areas that align with the boundaries of the Innovation
Development District.
Item 5A2 Resolution 3665 pledges tax increment revenues toward
taxable economic development revenue bonds supporting the Colfax
Corner project, a partnership between Ancora Real Estate and the
University of Notre Dame. The project includes redevelopment of the
former South Bend Tribune building and construction of a new office
building, totaling more than 200,000 square feet, a $154 million
investment, and over 400 full-time equivalent jobs. The University will
occupy approximately 35% of the space, and construction is expected to
use 90% local labor. Eighty-eight percent of the property tax increment
will be applied to bond debt service, with the remaining 12% retained by
the Commission. One hundred percent of state income and sales tax
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – February 12, 2026
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generated by the project will also support the bonds. There is no financial
obligation or backup tax levy from the City; all risk is borne by the
developer, who will purchase the bonds.
The project also coordinates with broader downtown stormwater
management planning serving the northern downtown area.
Representatives from Ancora, the University of Notre Dame, legal
counsel, and municipal finance advisors are available for questions.
Vice President Relos asked about the anticipated base assessed value
date and Mr. Bauer stated January 1, 2026. Secretary Wax inquired
about when the tax revenue will be sufficient to cover the bond. Mr.
Bauer stated that typically, we use capitalized interest—three years in
this case, which covers interest through issuance. After that period, debt
service begins, starting at a lower level and gradually increasing over time
and will be paid out of the bond proceeds.
A notice was published in the South Bend Tribune on January 30, 2026,
regarding the public hearing to consider the Economic Development
Area, New Allocation Areas for IDD.
A Public Hearing regarding the Economic Development Area, New
Allocation Areas for IDD was opened to the public for comments and
considerations. There were no questions or comments. The Public
Hearing was closed.
Commissioners Warner, Relos, Wax and Shaw thanked staff for their
hard work with all of the details in this process.
Upon a motion by Eli Wax for approval, seconded by Gillian Shaw, the
motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved Resolution No.
3664 as presented on February 12, 2026.
2. Resolution No. 3665 (Pledging Certain Tax Increment Revenues To The
Payment Of Certain Taxable Economic Development Revenue Bonds Of
The City Of South Bend For The Colfax Corner ML, LLC Project)
Statement
Upon a motion by Eli Wax for approval, seconded by Troy Warner, the
motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved Resolution No.
3665 as presented on February 12, 2026.
3. Opening of Bids (1818 W. Sample St.)
Joseph Molnar, Assistant Director of Growth and Opportunity, stated
we received no bids prior to the deadline for the disposition process, and
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – February 12, 2026
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the City will proceed with next steps for this property after the 30 day
waiting period required by state law during which City staff cannot
negotiate a purchase of the property.
4. Budget Request (Western Ave. Transformation, Phase I)
Joseph Molnar, Assistant Director of Growth and Opportunity, is
requesting $200,000 from the River West TIF for design and
engineering work for the Western Avenue Transformation District. This
project redevelops the former Rabbi Shulman public housing site and
adjacent parcels to the northeast into approximately 208 mixed-income
housing units. The developer selected is The Michaels Organization.
Because of the project’s scale, funding is coming from multiple sources,
including the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County, READI 2.0
funds, a HUD Section 108 loan, and both 4% and 9% Low-Income
Housing Tax Credits.
Demolition of the Rabbi Shulman site is underway and nearing
completion. Design and engineering work is currently being led by the
local firm JPR, which has completed approximately 30% design for
infrastructure and utility improvements for the southern phase of the
project (Phase 1A). The developer has submitted a 4% non-competitive
LIHTC application and is awaiting state approval, which is expected. A
9% competitive application is also in progress and due in July, with RDC
staff assisting on required documentation.
The $200,000 request will support continued design and engineering for
the southern portion of the site. These costs will ultimately be
reimbursed through the HUD Section 108 loan, with River West TIF
funding allowing the work to continue without delay. This funding will
help ensure the project stays on track as it replaces substandard housing
with a high-quality, mixed-income neighborhood in the downtown area.
Vice President Relos inquired about the 4% and 9% references; Joe
Molnar explained that those percentages do not reflect portions of the
overall project cost. They refer to different types of Low-Income
Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) that the developer, The Michaels
Organization, has applied for. The 4% and 9% credits apply to different
phases of the project. The southern portion of the site—formerly the
Rabbi Shulman Housing Authority property—is being developed as
Phase 1A and is associated with the 4% non-competitive tax credit
application. The northern portion will be developed in a later subphase
using 9% competitive tax credits.
President Warner inquired about the breakdown of the funding. Caleb
Bauer explained, the Section 108 loan is considered a local public match.
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – February 12, 2026
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While it is a federal loan, it is secured by the City’s annual Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) allocation, with a portion of those
funds committed over 15 years for debt service. Because those revenues
flow through the City, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation
recognizes them as an eligible local match. As a general rule of thumb,
the 4% tax credit program is typically used for larger developments. The
equity generated from selling those credits usually covers about 30 to
40 percent of total project costs, which is why these deals tend to be
larger in scale. In contrast, the 9% tax credit is more lucrative, often
covering 60 to 70 percent of project costs, but it is highly competitive
and more restrictive. As a result, 9% projects are typically smaller, often
in the range of 50 to 70 units, with an optimal size around 60 units.
For this project, the full scope of Phase 1B includes approximately 208
units. To maximize available funding, the project has been divided into
subphases. Phase 1A will deliver roughly 152 units using the non-
competitive 4% credits, while a smaller portion will rely on the
competitive 9% credits, which are expected to be awarded later this
year. The developer has a strong track record of success with
competitive tax credit applications, and confidence is high that this
application will score well.
Secretary Wax requested a more holistic presentation of the overall
redevelopment plan once the non-competitive tax credits are officially
awarded. Staff indicated that once Phase 1A agreements are finalized, a
comprehensive overview of Phase 1A—and later Phase 1B—will be
presented, including how the subphases fit together and satisfy grant
requirements. While the subphases do not need to move forward
simultaneously, both must advance to meet the conditions of various
funding sources. Staff confirmed that a broader presentation can be
given to the Commission and that any existing presentation materials
previously shared with Council could also be provided.
Commissioner Gooden-Rodgers asked if the total of the housing units
will be the same as the current building. Mr. Bauer stated that once
Phase 2 is complete, there will be more units to finish off the block.
Tina Patton asked for clarification regarding the displaced residents and
how the City is addressing this. Mr. Bauer stated that about two-thirds
of the new units in this phase will be income-qualified. This is not the
final phase of development. Once all phases are complete, there will be
more income-qualified units on the block than existed previously,
though that will take time.
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – February 12, 2026
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Separately, the City has partnered with the Housing Authority to bring
vacant public housing units back into service, particularly within the
scattered-site portfolio. Many of these units have been offline due to
maintenance issues but are now renovated and occupied. This has been a
multi-year effort made possible through a funding partnership approved
by the Common Council two years ago.
So, when looking only at this block, it’s important to keep in mind the
broader set of partnerships and investments that are expanding South
Bend’s public housing stock from where it was a few years ago, when it
was at its lowest point.
Upon a motion by Gillian Shaw for approval, seconded by David Relos,
the motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved the Budget
Request as presented on February 12, 2026.
5. Donation Agreement (528 Euclid Ave.)
Joseph Molnar, Assistant Director of Growth and Opportunity,
presented a donation agreement for a property located at 528 Euclid
Avenue in the City of South Bend. The parcel, shown in red, is located
between LaPorte Avenue and Lincoln Way West, just north of City
Cemetery. The surrounding parcels shown in blue are City-owned
properties, held by either the Board of Public Works and the
Redevelopment Commission. The property proposed to be donated to
the RDC is a standard City lot, just over one-tenth of an acre. It has been
vacant for several years and previously contained a single-family home
that was demolished between 2017 and 2019. The current owner has no
further use for the property and has offered to donate it to the City for
redevelopment purposes. All property taxes are current.
The agreement includes a 60-day due diligence period, allowing the
Redevelopment Commission time to review the property and withdraw
if any issues arise, followed by a 60-day closing period. Acquiring this
parcel supports ongoing redevelopment in the neighborhood, where the
City already owns multiple vacant lots and has seen significant new
construction over the past year, particularly along Blaine St. Additional
housing development is expected through existing agreements with
housing developer partners. City ownership of vacant lots allows for
proper maintenance and positioning of these properties for future
redevelopment, making this donation a beneficial step for the
neighborhood.
Commissioner Gooden-Rodgers asked how we can fix the issue of
vacant lots in this neighborhood. Mr. Molnar stated that the City has a
partnership in this area with Intend Indiana, where new housing
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – February 12, 2026
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development is underway. We want to see housing continue to return to
the neighborhood.
This issue developed over decades, resulting in many vacant lots, and it
will take time to rebuild and restore the area. As previously mentioned,
there are already nine to ten new homes built on Blaine Street nearby, so
this progress is not far off. Assuming everything goes well, we expect
housing development to begin on these lots within the next few years.
The vast majority of the lots in this neighborhood are already owned by
the City, having been acquired through the tax sale process, which is
how the City came into possession of them in the first place.
Upon a motion by Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers for approval, seconded by
Eli Wax, the motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved the
Donation Agreement as presented on February 12, 2026.
6. Amendment to Development Agreement (321 West Wayne)
Joseph Molnar, Assistant Director of Growth and Opportunity, noted an
error in the agreement, a date discrepancy of February 12, 2025 should
be 2026. This item relates to an existing development agreement that
the Redevelopment Commission approved at the end of 2024. What is
before you today are the First Amendment to that overall development
agreement. The property is located at 321 W. Wayne Street, on the
western edge of downtown South Bend.
The original development agreement contemplated the renovation of a
formerly blighted industrial building, including construction of a new
brewery, a family-oriented entertainment component, and renovated
office space. The agreement included a minimum private investment
commitment of $1.5 million, along with a $70,000 contribution from the
Redevelopment Commission, and required project completion by the
end of 2027. That agreement was approved in November 2024.
These images show the condition of the property prior to renovation,
including the interior. The building needed significant work, both inside
and out. Portions of the exterior had been covered with unattractive
sheet metal siding, much of it with visibly flaking paint. Work has been
ongoing since 2024, and the developers can speak in more detail about
the specifics. Improvements have included a new roof and a fully
renovated interior. The restaurant component is now open, the brewery
is operational, and the office spaces are in their final stages of
completion.
During the renovation process, the project encountered unexpected
expenses related to water utility improvements needed to support the
brewery. As you would expect, breweries require substantial water
capacity, and the necessary upgrades exceeded initial expectations. This
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First Amendment clarifies those changes and increases the
Redevelopment Commission’s commitment from $70,000 to $80,000 to
help complete the required utility infrastructure improvements. It also
increases the developer’s investment commitment to more accurately
reflect both the work already completed and the remaining scope of
work—from $1.5 million to over $2.9 million, representing nearly a 100
percent increase.
These photos show the renovation progress. Ivy Alley Social House, the
restaurant component, is now open. The project includes all new
windows and significant exterior improvements. You can see images of
the restaurant space on the left and office space on the right, which
represent a dramatic change from the earlier conditions.
Also included is the duckpin bowling area, which was a key component of
the original development agreement to ensure the site included a family-
oriented activation, rather than functioning solely as a brewery. As
shown here, that portion of the project has been completed.
Overall, this project represents a high-quality renovation of a historic
downtown building, adding new life and vitality to this part of the city. It
brings new jobs, economic activity, office space, and family-friendly
destination addressing a key priority we have consistently heard during
planning processes: the need for more spaces downtown that families
can enjoy.
Regina Emberton, representing the developer Historic Hearthstone,
commented that we’re extremely excited about this project and the
partnership behind it. What was once a 17,000-square-foot vacant
industrial building is now a vibrant community hub. Indiana Landmarks
has opened its Northern Indiana office here and is already hosting
community and educational events. Ivy Alley Social House, the anchor
tenant, opened in December with duckpin bowling, a brewery, and a
pizza kitchen, and has been very well received. Their first brewery
release launches tonight.
The project also supports South Bend Trade Works by providing
basement storage space at no cost. Overall, we’re proud of how this
turned out and grateful for the City, Redevelopment Commission,
Council, and staff support.
Commissioners Wax and Relos, Tina Patton all spoke in favor of the
project.
Upon a motion by David Relos for approval, seconded by Gillian Shaw,
the motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved the
Amendment as presented on February 12, 2026.
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7. Budget Request (Studebaker Museum HVAC Repairs)
Nifemi Oluwatomini, Senior Engineer, presented a budget request for
the Studebaker National Museum HVAC renovation. The initial scope
includes replacing two rooftop HVAC units and upgrading the building
control system. The existing control system is outdated, limited in
accessibility, and no longer reliable. The proposed upgrade would create
a more modern, user-friendly, and dependable system for museum staff.
The City is responsible for this work because it owns the building and the
historic vehicle collection housed within it and maintains a lease and
management agreement with the museum. Under that agreement, the
City is responsible for replacement of all HVAC system components.
These improvements will enhance system reliability, allow for better
temperature control for both visitors and the collection, and ensure the
long-term preservation of museum assets.
The total request is $350,000, covering both design and construction of
the rooftop units and the new building control system. Funding is
requested from River West TIF. The goal is to replace obsolete
equipment, align with recent museum modernization efforts, and
improve the experience for guests, staff, and the collection.
Patrick Slebonick, Executive Director of the Studebaker National
Museum, wanted to emphasize how critical this project is. The City owns
the core collection, including highly sensitive historic vehicles, and a
reliable HVAC system is essential to preserving them. These are the final
two units to be replaced, and the existing controls are obsolete, creating
real risk to the collection. We appreciate the City and Commission’s
continued partnership and support.
Vice President Relos asked for clarification on how many HVAC units
total and Mr. Slebonick explained, this is the final phase of the museum’s
HVAC modernization. Earlier units were replaced due to hail damage
and age, and this request covers the last two rooftop units, along with
design, installation, and a new control system. The upgrades address real
failures and obsolete controls and complete the City’s long-term
responsibility under the management agreement.
Secretary Wax asked if this request would complete the HVAC project.
Mr. Slebonick stated that this is responsible future planning, but it also
addresses real issues. One of the units being replaced failed last summer
after 20 years when a copper pipe ruptured and released all of its
refrigerant, resulting in a $6,000 repair that the museum covered from
operating funds.
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – February 12, 2026
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On the controls side, several components and sensors have failed and
are now obsolete, with no available updates. These limitations also
prevent the museum from fully benefiting from recent efficiency
upgrades, such as VFDs installed on air handler units that are
incompatible with the current control system.
Upon a motion by David Relos for approval, seconded by Troy Warner,
the motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved the Budget
Request as presented on February 12, 2026.
8. Resolution No. 3666 (Caleb Bauer for Extraordinary Service to the City
of South Bend)
President Troy Warner presented Resolution No. 3666, an honorary
resolution recognizing Caleb Bauer for his outstanding service to the
City of South Bend, the community, and the Redevelopment
Commission. Caleb has served the City for six years, four as Executive
Director of the Department of Community Investment and two as
Director of Communications, working closely with the Commission
throughout that time. His leadership helped establish a strong culture of
professionalism, accountability, and customer service.
Under Caleb’s leadership, the City supported significant job creation,
private investment, housing development, neighborhood revitalization,
park improvements, and major civic and infrastructure projects across
South Bend. Therefore, it must be resolved that the South Bend
Redevelopment Commission honors Caleb Bauer for his extraordinary
commitment and distinguished service, thanks him for his lasting
contributions to our community, and expresses sincere appreciation for
his work.
All of the Commissioners spoke highly of Caleb’s contributions and look
forward to working with him in the future to improve the City of South
Bend.
The motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved Resolution
No. 3666 as presented on February 12, 2026.
6. Progress Reports
A. Tax Abatement
Joseph Molnar, Assistant Director of Growth and Opportunity, presented
updates today, one related to tax abatement and one to economic
development. The Common Council approved a designated Resolution for a
new Burton’s Laundry on Main Street along the South Corridor. The project
will be similar in style to Burton’s Laundry location near Portage and will be
built on currently vacant land near Bob Miller’s Appliances.
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – February 12, 2026
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B. Common Council
None
C. Other
None
7. Next Commission Meeting
Thursday, February 26, 2026, 9:30 a.m., City Hall Council Chambers 3rd Floor
8. Adjournment
Thursday, February 12, 2026, 10:43 a.m.
______________________________ ______________________________
Eli Wax, Secretary Troy Warner, President
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Minutes
Regular Meeting
February 26, 2026 – 9:30 a.m.
City Hall Council Chambers 3rd Floor or via:
https://tinyurl.com/RDC2025-2026-Meetings
Meeting Recording Link: https://tinyurl.com/RDC-Meeting-Recordings
The South Bend Redevelopment Commission was called to order at 9:30 a.m.
President Troy Warner presiding.
1. ROLL CALL
Members Present: Troy Warner, President
Dave Relos, Vice President
Eli Wax, Secretary
Gillian Shaw, Commissioner
Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers, Commissioner
Marcus Ellison, Non-Voting Advisor
Legal Counsel: Jenna Throw, City Attorney
Redevelopment Staff: Darryl Scott, Chief of Staff, Mayor’s Office
Erik Glavich, Director of Growth and Opportunity, DCI
Lewis Kouassi, Director of Finance, DCI
Joseph Molnar, Asst. Dir. of Growth and Opp., DCI
Erin Michaels, Property Development Mngr., DCI-Virtual
Tim Corcoran, Chief Planner, DCI
Michael Divita, Principal Planner, DCI
Chris Dressel, Senior Planner, DCI
Leslie Biek, Assist. City Engineer
Laura Hensley, Board Secretary, DCI
Attending: Murray Miller, 23698 Western Ave.
Matt Barrett, 110 S. Niles Ave.
Charlotte Brach, Senior City Engineer
Eric Horvath, Director of Public Works
Patrick Sherman, Director of Project Management
Rebecca Plantz, Director of Engineering Services
Tina Patton, 707 Sherman Ave.
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – February 26, 2026
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Dustin New, Planner MACOG
Peter Hru, 25700 Cleveland Rd.
2. Approval of Claims
A. Claims Allowances February 17, 2026
Upon a motion by David Relos for approval second by Gillian Shaw, the
motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved the claims
allowances of February 17, 2026.
3. Old Business
A. None
4. New Business
A. River East Residential Development Area
1. Budget Request (Colfax Streetscape Improvements)
Joseph Molnar, Assistant Director of Growth and Opportunity, stated
that before Leslie begins the primary presentation, I wanted to provide a
brief update since both budget requests on today’s agenda are tied to
the River East Residential Development Area—an area the Commission
does not see very often.
As a reminder, the River East Residential area is a separate category
within the larger River East TIF district. This residential TIF captures
incremental growth specifically from residential development.
For 2026, there is approximately $16.2 million in available cash. If the
Commission approves both budget requests on today’s agenda, the
remaining cash balance would be about $8.4 million. That leaves this TIF
in a very strong financial position moving forward.
Leslie Biek, Assistant City Engineer, began by introducing the Colfax
Avenue streetscape project. As noted, this phase of the project focuses
solely on streetscape improvements and does not include the bridge
work. The project limits are similar to those used for the LaSalle project.
The overall project extends from Sycamore Street to Eddy Street, with
the primary streetscape improvements occurring from Sycamore Street
to just West of Hill Street. From Hill Street to Eddy Street, the roadway
will receive a mill and overlay.
The purpose of the project is to create a safer, more walkable
environment that is more inviting to both commercial and residential
development in the area. Streetscape improvements will include new
sidewalks, curb bump-outs, driveway approaches, a shared-use path on
the south side of the road, and enhanced pedestrian crossings at the East
Bank Trail. Additional improvements include storm sewer upgrades,
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – February 26, 2026
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landscaping, decorative street lighting, and other standard streetscape
amenities. East of Hill Street, the project will consist of a mill and fill. It is
important to note that Colfax Avenue will remain a three-lane roadway;
there will be no lane reductions or changes to the existing lane
configuration. However, the project does add additional on-street
parking. More than 20 new on-street parking spaces are expected, which
will benefit nearby local businesses.
The bids for this project are currently being reviewed, with an award
anticipated next month. Construction is expected to begin in early
Spring, as soon as the contractor is able to mobilize. The contract
includes an open-to-traffic date of September 4, which covers
completion of sidewalks and the multi-use path. Final project
completion, including landscaping and remaining items, is scheduled for
October 30.
Vice President Relos asked how the project could accommodate the
addition of 20 on-street parking spaces while also addressing congestion
related to school drop-off and pick-up. Ms. Biek explained that the
design reduces excess pavement while maintaining the existing lane
configuration. The project uses curb bump-outs and similar streetscape
features to create additional on-street parking. To achieve this, certain
turn lanes on Niles Street, including the left-turn lane, will be removed.
Regarding Hill Street, where the elementary school is located, we are
aware that the drop-off and pick-up lines, especially in the afternoon,
can back up significantly, sometimes extending several blocks. That
operation will still be able to continue as it does today. We did evaluate
the option of installing a cycle track similar to what was done on LaSalle,
but instead the project will retain striped bike lanes within the street,
consistent with the current configuration.
We have met with the school multiple times to discuss different options
for drop-off and pick-up. Given their limited site footprint, it is
challenging to make significant changes. They are already fairly well
organized, so we are continuing to work with them as best we can within
those constraints.
Commissioner Gooden-Rodgers asked for clarification regarding bump-
outs. Ms. Biek explained that the curb bump-outs serve several
important purposes. They shorten the distance pedestrians must cross
at intersections, help clearly define on-street parking areas, and
contribute to traffic calming by slowing vehicle speeds. While these
features are often unpopular with drivers, they are effective in
improving overall safety and pedestrian comfort. Ms. Gooden-Rodgers
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – February 26, 2026
Page | 4
also requested a reflective color be added and Ms. Biek stated that she
would look into that.
Secretary Wax asked if right and left turns would be restricted with the
addition of the bump-outs. Ms. Biek explained that while certain turning
movements would not be completely prohibited, vehicles would be
required to remain in the through lane when turning unless they are first
in line. As part of the design, the project reduces the ability to make left
turns and limits some right turns. While the roadway will remain a single
through lane in each direction, these changes may reduce overall lane
efficiency.
To help offset these impacts, the City is upgrading signal detection by
installing GridSmart cameras. These cameras provide improved vehicle
detection and can recommend optimized signal timing based on
observed traffic volumes. Cameras will be installed at the intersections
of Niles St. and Hill St. While the cameras will be capable of
communicating with one another once connected via cellular or fiber,
that connectivity is not included in this project. However, it is part of a
larger plan to modernize downtown traffic signals and create
coordinated corridors that can adjust signal timing based on traffic
conditions.
Secretary Wax expressed support for improvements that enhance
pedestrian safety and experience but emphasized the importance of also
maintaining efficient vehicle movement. He asked whether the new
technology automatically adjusts signal timing or if changes require
manual intervention. Ms. Biek responded that the system could
recommend preferred signal timing based on real-time traffic data. Ms.
Biek further noted that the City has a separate signal modernization
project underway, with priority corridors identified and a consultant
engaged to assist with improving traffic flow. While final approvals are
still pending, staff confirmed that these improvements are actively being
pursued.
Commissioner Shaw asked for a breakdown of the budget. Ms. Biek
indicated that the specific information was not available at the time but
could be provided afterward. It was clarified that the request pertains
only to construction funding. A follow-up question was then raised
regarding the budget. Ms. Shaw asked whether the project was still out
to bid and whether bids had been received. Ms. Biek responded that bids
were received on Tuesday. She further explained that the requested
amount has been adjusted and includes a 10% contingency to cover any
potential change orders. If those change orders are not needed, the
unused funds would be returned to the appropriate fund.
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – February 26, 2026
Page | 5
Dustin New, Transportation Planner for MACOG, and residents Edward
Jurkovic and Peter Hru all spoke in favor of the project.
Upon a motion by David Relos for approval, seconded by Gillian Shaw,
the motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved the Budget
Request as presented on February 26, 2026.
2. Budget Request (Marion Pedestrian Bridge and Trail Connections)
Leslie Biek, Assist. City Engineer presented the Marion Pedestrian
Bridge and Connecting Trails Project for $3,600,000. The project
proposes construction of a new pedestrian bridge over the St. Joseph
River at Marion Street. The bridge would connect the east and west
sides of the river and link directly into the City’s broader trail network.
This location has been identified as a valuable connection point and has
appeared in multiple neighborhood and planning studies since 2017. In
total, five plans have recommended the bridge as a way to address gaps
in the City’s pedestrian and trail infrastructure.
The Marion Bridge will be a standalone project located on the south side
of Marion Street. It will connect the West Bank to the East Bank Trail.
The bridge will consist of two spans with a cylindrical center column
placed in the river. The outer railing design will be a steel capstone-style
railing, and the handrail and handrail lighting will match what was used
on the Coal Line Trail pedestrian bridge.
On the west side of the river, a new trail will be constructed along the
south side of Marion Street and connected to the existing roundabout.
Because Marion St. is currently wider than needed for a residential
street, the southern curb line will be shifted to accommodate the trail. A
separate project along Madison St. will connect a new linking trail to the
East Bank Trail and the bridge. Improvements along the Madison
Connector Trail will include ADA curb upgrades, curb bump-outs, and
decorative lighting.
Regarding schedule, bridge bids were opened earlier this week, and the
Madison Trail project is currently out for bid, with bids expected at the
March 10 Board of Works meeting. The Marion Trail project will be bid
later this spring. Construction of the bridge is anticipated to begin in late
summer, pending environmental permit approvals, and is expected to be
completed next spring. Construction of the Madison and Marion trails is
expected to occur this year, with potential coordination adjustments to
the Marion Trail to align with bridge construction.
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – February 26, 2026
Page | 6
Vice President Relos asked if the budget request includes both the
Marion and Madison connections and Ms. Biek stated yes with a 10%
contingency for change orders.
Secretary Wax asked for a review of the original plan and how the
project reached its current cost. Ms. Biek explained that $3 million was
originally appropriated from the TIF bond based on early estimates that
the bridge alone would cost approximately $3 million and did not include
trail components. As design progressed, total design costs for all three
projects were approximately $690,000 and were paid from the original
allocation. Construction costs for all three projects are now estimated at
approximately $5.8 million, with the remaining difference reflecting
finalized design and bid-ready estimates. Ms. Biek noted that the scope
of the project did not significantly change during design; no new
elements were added, and cost-effective options were selected to
maintain compatibility with the Coal Line Trail.
Peter Hru, Edward Jurkovic and Dustin New all spoke in favor of the
project.
Upon a motion by Ophelia Gooden-Rodgers for approval, seconded by
Gillian Shaw, the motion carried unanimously; the Commission approved
the Budget Request as presented on February 26, 2026.
5. Progress Reports
A. Tax Abatement
Joseph Molnar, Assistant Director of Growth and Opportunity, stated that
the Common Council approved a confirming Resolution for the new
Burton’s Laundry location on the south end of town off Main Street was
approved on Monday. Construction is expected to begin within the next few
months.
B. Common Council
None
C. Other
Joseph Molnar, Assistant Director of Growth and Opportunity and Erik
Glavich, Director of Growth and Opportunity, give updates on.
• Diamond View – Tenants expected soon
• Monroe Street – Construction fencing went up
• JC Hart – Demo is done, construction starting soon
• Drewery’s – Demo completion in the Spring
CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – February 26, 2026
Page | 7
• Madison Lifestyle District – Big packages moving forward, NIPSCO
building demo will begin soon and working on design of storm water
and public utilities.
6. Next Commission Meeting
Thursday, March 12, 2026, 9:30 a.m., City Hall Council Chambers 3rd Floor
7. Adjournment
Thursday, February 26, 2026, 10:11 a.m.
______________________________ ______________________________
Eli Wax, Secretary Troy Warner, President
City of South Bend
Department of Administration & Finance
Claims Allowance Request
To:South Bend Redevelopment Commission
From:Kyle Willis, City Controller
Date:Monday, March 9, 2026
Pursuant to Indiana Code 36-4-8-7, I have audited and certified the attached claims and
submit them for allowance in the following amounts:
GBLN-0130346 $515,704.48
GBLN-0130670 $157,299.89
GBLN-0131145 $6,450,492.61
Total:$7,123,496.98
_______________________________
Kyle Willis
The attached claims described above were allowed in the following
total amount at a public meeting on the date stated below:
South Bend Redevelopment Commission
By:_______________________________
Name:
Date:
Attest:_______________________________
Name:
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Redevelopment Commission Agenda Item
D ATE : 3/8/26
FROM: Joseph Molnar
Assistant Director, Growth & Opportunity
SUBJECT: Development Agreement – KCG Development
2018-2020 S. Main Street
Funding Source* (circle) River West; River East; South Side; Douglas Road; West Washington; RDC General; Riv. East Res.
* Funds are subject to the City Controller's determination of availability; if funds are unavailable, as solely determined by the City Controller,
then the authorization of the expenditure of such funds shall be void and of no effect.
PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Approval of Development Agreement with KCG Development for an affordable housing project at 2018-
2020 S. Main St.
SPECIFICS:
The Redevelopment Commission approved a Purchase Agreement on June 12, 2025 with KCG
Development LLC for RDC owned property located at 2018-2020 S. Main Street. KCG applied for low-
income housing tax credits for a multi-family apartment building with fifty (50) affordable income housing
units. KCG was awarded the tax credits from the IHCDA in November 2025.
For the KCG application to be awarded as many points as possible and increase the chance of a successful
application, the City partnered with KCG in support of the project. As part of that support, the attached
Development Agreement commits the RDC to funding $1,000,000 from the South Side Development
Area funds. The Development Agreement commits KCG to investing $13,000,000 in private funding into
the site.
Construction of a new apartment building on currently vacant land will add vitality to the Main Street
corridor as well as providing quality affordable housing.
Staff recommends approval
______________ ___________Pres/V-Pres
ATTEST: __________ ________Secretary
Date: _____________ _______
APPROVED Not Approved
SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
This Development Agreement (this “Agreement”), is effective as of March 12, 2026 (the
“Effective Date”), by and between the City of South Bend, Department of Redevelopment, acting
by and through its governing body, the South Bend Redevelopment Commission (the
“Commission”), and KCG Development LLC a Florida Limited Liability Company, with its
registered address being 9311 N Meridian Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46260 (the
“Developer”) (each, a “Party,” and collectively, the “Parties”).
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the Commission exists and operates under the provisions of the
Redevelopment of Cities and Towns Act of 1953, as amended (I.C. 36-7-14 et seq., the “Act”);
and
WHEREAS, the Act provides that the clearance, replanning, and redevelopment of
redevelopment areas are public uses and purposes for which public money may be spent; and
WHEREAS, the Commission owns certain vacant and inactive real property described in
Exhibit A, which, concurrently with this Agreement, the Commission is agreeing to sell to
Developer through a Real Estate Purchase Agreement dated effective June 12, 2025 (the “Purchase
Agreement”), inclusive of vacant lots and all fixtures, easements, appurtenances, hereditaments,
rights, powers, privileges, and other improvements thereon and/or appurtenant thereto; and
WHEREAS, in exchange for the discounted purchase price for the real property described
in Exhibit A, the Purchase Agreement contains certain post-closing development obligations that
the Developer must meet; and
WHEREAS, the Developer applied for and was awarded low-income housing tax credits
to construct a multi-family building (the “Project”) in accordance with the project plan (the
“Project Plan”) attached hereto as Exhibit B; and
WHEREAS, the Developer Property is located within the corporate boundaries of the City
within the South Side Development Area (the “Area”); and
WHEREAS, the Commission has adopted (and subsequently amended, from time to time)
a development plan, which contemplates development of the Area consistent with the Project; and
WHEREAS, the Commission believes that accomplishing the Project as described herein
is in the best interests of the health, safety, and welfare of the City and its residents; and
WHEREAS, the Commission desires to facilitate and assist the Project by undertaking the
local public improvements stated in Exhibit C (the “Local Public Improvements”) and the
financing thereof, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement and in accordance with
the Act.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and obligations stated in
this Agreement, the adequacy of which is hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
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SECTION 1. DEFINITIONS.
Unless otherwise defined in this Agreement, capitalized terms used in this Agreement have
the following meanings:
1.1 Assessed Value. “Assessed Value” means the market value-in-use of a property,
used for property tax assessment purposes as determined by the St. Joseph County Assessor.
1.2 Board of Works. “Board of Works” means the Board of Public Works of the City,
a public body granted the power to award contracts for public works pursuant to I.C. 36-1-12.
1.3 Funding Amount. “Funding Amount” means an amount not to exceed One Million
Dollars ($1,000,000.00) of tax increment finance revenues to be used for paying the costs
associated with the construction, equipping, inspection, and delivery of the Local Public
Improvements.
1.4 Private Investment. “Private Investment” means an amount no less than Thirteen
Million Dollars ($13,000,000.00) to be expended by the Developer for the costs associated with
constructing the improvements set forth in the Project Plan, including architectural, engineering,
and any other costs directly related to completion of the Project that are expected to contribute to
increases in the Assessed Value of the Developer Property.
SECTION 2. INTERPRETATION, TERMS, AND RECITALS.
2.1 Interpretation.
(a) The terms “herein,” “hereto,” “hereunder,” and all terms of similar import
shall be deemed to refer to this Agreement as a whole rather than to any Article of, Section
of, or Exhibit to this Agreement.
(b) Unless otherwise specified, references in this Agreement to (i) “Section” or
“Article” shall be deemed to refer to the Section or Article of this Agreement bearing the
number so specified, (ii) “Exhibit” shall be deemed to refer to the Exhibit of this Agreement
bearing the letter or number so specified, and (iii) references to this “Agreement” shall
mean this Agreement and any exhibits and attachments hereto.
(c) Captions used for or in Sections, Articles, and Exhibits of this Agreement
are for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the construction of this
Agreement.
(d) The terms “include,” “including,” and “such as” shall each be construed as
if followed by the phrase “without being limited to.”
2.2 Recitals. The Recitals set forth above are incorporated into and are a part of this
Agreement for all purposes.
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SECTION 3. ACCESS.
3.1 Grant of Easement. The Developer will grant to the Commission a temporary, non-
exclusive easement on, in, over, under and across any part(s) of the Developer Property (the
“Easement”) in the form attached hereto as Exhibit D, to permit the Commission to fulfill its
obligations under this Agreement, including the construction, equipping, inspection, and delivery
of the Local Public Improvements. The Easement shall (a) inure to the benefit of the Commission
and the Board of Works or any contractors acting on behalf of the Commission in connection with
the construction, equipping, inspection, and delivery of the Local Public Improvements; (b) shall
bind the Developer and its grantees, successors, and assigns; and (c) shall terminate no later than
upon completion of the Local Public Improvements, as determined by the Board of Works.
SECTION 4. DEVELOPER’S OBLIGATIONS.
4.1 Generally. The Parties acknowledge and agree that the Commission’s agreements
to perform and abide by the covenants and obligations set forth in this Agreement are material
consideration for the Developer’s commitment to perform and abide by the covenants and
obligations of the Developer contained in this Agreement and the Purchase Agreement.
4.2 The Project.
(a) The Developer will perform all necessary work to complete the
improvements set forth in the Project Plan attached hereto as Exhibit B and the plans and
specifications to be approved by the Executive Director of the Department of Community
Investment, or their designee, pursuant to Section 4.7 (“Submission of Plans and
Specifications for Project”) of this Agreement, which improvements shall comply with all
zoning and land use laws and ordinances. Developer will commence construction within
ten (10) months after the Closing Date as specified in the Purchase Agreement
(“Construction Commencement Date”).
(b) The Developer will expend the Private Investment to complete the Project
in accordance with the Project Plan attached hereto as Exhibit B and the plans and
specifications to be approved by the Commission pursuant to Section 4.7 (“Submission of
Plans and Specifications for Project”) of this Agreement.
4.3 Cooperation. The Developer agrees to endorse and support the Commission’s
efforts to expedite the Local Public Improvements through any required planning, design, public
bidding, construction, inspection, waiver, permitting, and related regulatory processes.
Additionally Developer will permit the City to perform reviews and monitor the progress of the
the Project.
4.4 Obtain Necessary Easements. The Developer agrees to obtain any and all
easements from any governmental entity and/or any other third parties that the Developer or the
Commission deems necessary or advisable in order to complete the Local Public Improvements,
and the obtaining of such easements is a condition precedent to the Commission’s obligations
under this Agreement.
4
4.5 Timeframe for Completion. The Developer hereby agrees to complete the Project
as set forth in the Project Plan and any other obligations the Developer may have under this
Agreement by the completion date established in the Purchase Agreement, namely thirty (30)
months after the Construction Commencement Date (the “Mandatory Project Completion Date”).
The timeframe for completion may be modified by mutual agreement between the Developer and
the Commission due to unforeseen circumstances and delays. The Developer further agrees the
total Project will be completed in accordance with the Project Plan attached hereto as Exhibit B.
Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, the Developer’s failure to
complete the Project or any other obligations the Developer may have under this Agreement by
the Mandatory Project Completion Date will constitute a default under this Agreement without
any requirement of notice of or an opportunity to cure such failure.
4.6 Reporting Obligations.
(a) Upon the letting of contracts for substantial portions of the Project and again
upon substantial completion of the Project, the Developer hereby agrees to report to the
Commission the number of local contractors and local laborers involved in the Project, the
amount of bid awards for each contract related to the Project, and information regarding
which contractor is awarded each contract with respect to the Project.
(b) On or before June 30 and December 31 of each year until substantial
completion of the Project, the Developer shall submit to the Commission a report, in the
format set forth as Exhibit E, demonstrating the Developer’s good-faith compliance with
the terms of this Agreement. The report shall include the following information and
documents: (i) a status report of the construction completed to date, (ii) an update on the
project schedule, (iii) an itemized accounting generally identifying the Private Investment
to date, and (iv) a status report of the number of jobs created for employment at the
Developer Property.
4.7 Submission of Plans and Specifications for Project. Promptly upon completion of
all plans and specifications for the Project, or changes thereto, and prior to the Commission’s
expenditure of the Funding Amount, the Developer shall deliver a complete set thereof to the City’s
Executive Director of the Department of Community Investment, or their designee, who may
approve or disapprove said plans and specifications for the Project in their sole discretion as being
compliant with applicable City Neighborhood or area plans, and may request revisions or
amendments to be made to the same.
4.8 Costs and Expenses of Construction of Project. The Developer hereby agrees to
pay, or cause to be paid, all costs and expenses of planning, construction, management, and all
other activities or purposes associated with the Project (including legal, architectural, and
engineering fees), exclusive of the Local Public Improvements, which shall be paid for by the
Commission by and through the Funding Amount subject to the terms of this Agreement.
4.9 Specifications for Local Public Improvements. The Developer will be responsible
for the preparation of all bid specifications related to the Local Public Improvements, and the
Developer will pay all costs and expenses of such preparation, provided, however, that if the
5
Commission pays any costs or expenses of such preparation, then the amount paid by the
Commission will be deducted from the Funding Amount. The Developer will submit all bid
specifications related to the Local Public Improvements to the City of South Bend Engineering
Department (the “Engineering Department”). The Engineering Department may approve or
disapprove said bid specifications for the Project in its sole discretion and may request revisions
or amendments to be made to the same. Approval or Disapproval of Plans and Specifications by
the Executive Director or designee is solely for the purpose of determining consistency with
applicable City neighborhood, area, or redevelopment plans. Such approval or disapproval shall
not be deemed or relied upon as a determination of the feasibility, constructability, safety, or
compliance of the Project with engineering standards, building codes, or industry best practices.
Developer remains solely responsible for the accuracy, adequacy, and completeness of the plans
and specifications and for compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, codes, and industry
standards. The Commission shall not be required to expend the Funding Amount unless the
Engineering Department, and any other relevant authority, has approved all bid specifications.
4.10 Non-Interference. Developer hereby agrees to use commercially reasonable efforts
to minimize disruption for those living and working near the Developer Property during
construction of the Project.
4.11 Insurance. The Developer shall purchase and maintain comprehensive insurance
coverage as is appropriate for the work being performed with respect to the Project. The Developer
shall provide proof of such adequate insurance to the Commission and shall notify the Commission
and the City of any change in or termination of such insurance. During the period of construction
or provision of services regarding any Local Public Improvements, the Developer shall maintain
insurance in the kinds and for at least the minimum amounts as described in Exhibit F attached
hereto and the Commission and the City shall be named as additional insureds on such policies
(but not on any worker’s compensation policies).
4.12 Information. The Developer agrees to provide any and all due diligence items with
respect to the Project reasonably requested by the Commission.
SECTION 5. COMMISSION’S OBLIGATIONS.
5.1 Generally. The Parties acknowledge and agree that the Developer’s agreement to
perform and abide by the covenants and obligations set forth in this Agreement is material
consideration for the Commission’s commitment to perform and abide by the covenants and
obligations of the Commission contained in this Agreement. The Commission acknowledges that
its obligations to complete the Local Public Improvements directly impact the Project Plan and
agrees to perform such obligations in a good and workmanlike manner, in accordance with
applicable laws, regulations, and the terms of this Agreement..
5.2 Completion of Local Public Improvements.
(a) The Commission hereby agrees to complete (or cause to be completed) the
Local Public Improvements described in Exhibit C attached hereto on a schedule to be
reasonably determined and agreed to by the Commission and the Developer, as may be
modified due to unforeseen circumstances and delays. In the event that the Purchase
6
Agreement is terminated, and the transfer of property contemplated therein does not occur,
this Development Agreement shall become null and void, and the Commission shall have
no obligation to complete or cause to be completed the Local Public Improvements or
expend the Funding Amount.
(b) Before any work on the Local Public Improvements will commence, (a) the
Commission will have received satisfactory plans and specifications for the Project and
responded in accordance with Section 4.7 (“Submission of Plans and Specifications for
Project”) of this Agreement, and (b) the Engineering Department will have received
satisfactory bid specifications for the Local Public Improvements and approved the same
in accordance with Section 4.9 (“Specifications for Local Public Improvements”) of this
Agreement.
(c) The Commission shall be responsible for selecting the contractor to perform
the Local Public Improvements but prior to any selection the Developer shall have the right
to review and approve the scope and amount of any contract entered into in connection
with construction of the Local Public Improvements.
(d) The Local Public Improvements will be completed in accordance with all
applicable public bidding and contracting laws and will be subject to inspection by the
Engineering Department or its designee.
(e) Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, in the event the
costs associated with the Local Public Improvements are in excess of the Funding Amount,
Developer, at its sole option, may determine to pay to the Commission the amount of the
excess costs to permit timely completion of the Local Public Improvements by the
Commission, or an agent of the Commission, which amounts shall be applied for such
purpose. If Developer chooses not to pay any such excess costs of the Local Public
Improvements (above the Funding Amount), the Commission may reduce the scope of the
Local Public Improvements to the amount which may be funded with the Funding Amount.
In no event will the Commission be required to spend more than the Funding Amount in
connection with the Local Public Improvements.
5.3 Cooperation. The Commission agrees to endorse and support the Developer’s
efforts to expedite the Project through any required planning, design, permitting, waiver, and
related regulatory processes, provided, however, that the Commission will not be required to
expend any money in connection therewith.
5.4 Public Announcements, Press Releases, and Marketing Materials. The
Commission hereby agrees to coordinate all public announcements and press releases relating to
the Project with the Developer.
5.5 Transfer and Assignment Contracts. The Commission shall ensure that all
agreements and contracts in connection with the Local Public Improvements (the “Contracts”)
may be transferred and assigned to Developer or its affiliates. Following the completion of the
Local Public Improvements, the Commission shall take all such actions that may be necessary or
appropriate to transfer and assign such Contracts.
7
5.6 Liens. The Commission shall promptly and timely pay all subcontractors, sub-
subcontractors, laborers, material suppliers, and other persons or entities furnishing labor,
materials, or services in connection with the Local Public Improvements. The Commission shall
ensure that the Work is performed and completed free and clear of any mechanics’, materialmen’s,
or other liens, claims, stop notices, or encumbrances arising out of or relating to payments for the
Local Public Improvements. If any lien, claim, or encumbrance is filed or asserted against Owner’s
property arising out of or relating to the Local Public Improvements, the Commission shall, at its
sole cost and expense, within ten (10) days after written notice from Developer (or sooner if
required by law), cause such lien or claim to be released, discharged, or bonded off in a manner
reasonably satisfactory to Owner. The Commission shall indemnify and hold harmless Developer
and its affiliates, and their respective officers, directors, members, managers, employees, agents,
and representatives, from and against any and all claims, liens, demands, causes of action, damages,
losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses (including, without limitation, attorneys’ fees and court costs)
arising out of or relating to (i) Commission’s failure to timely pay subcontractors, suppliers, or
other parties furnishing labor or materials for the Local Public Improvements, or (ii) the filing,
enforcement, or satisfaction of any mechanics’ lien or similar claim relating to payments for the
Local Public Improvements.
SECTION 6. COOPERATION IN THE EVENT OF LEGAL CHALLENGE.
6.1 Cooperation. In the event of any administrative, legal, or equitable action or other
proceeding instituted by any person not a party to this Agreement challenging the validity of any
provision of this Agreement, the Parties shall cooperate in defending such action or proceeding to
settlement or final judgment including all appeals. Each Party shall select its own legal counsel;
however, Developer shall reimburse the Commission for its reasonable attorneys’ fees associated
with the Commission’s defense of this Agreement against a third-party lawsuit. In no event shall
the Commission be required to bear the fees and costs of the Developer’s attorneys. The Parties
agree that if any other provision of this Agreement, or this Agreement as a whole, is invalidated,
rendered null, or set aside by a court of competent jurisdiction, the Parties agree to be bound by
the terms of this Section 6.1, which shall survive such invalidation, nullification, or setting aside.
SECTION 7. DEFAULT.
7.1 Default. Any failure by either Party to perform any term or provision of this
Agreement, which failure continues uncured for a period of thirty (30) days following written
notice of such failure from the other Party, shall constitute a default under this Agreement. Any
notice given pursuant to the preceding sentence shall specify the nature of the alleged failure and,
where appropriate, the manner in which said failure satisfactorily may be cured. Upon the
occurrence of a default under this Agreement, the non-defaulting Party may (a) terminate this
Agreement, or (b) institute legal proceedings at law or in equity (including any action to compel
specific performance) seeking remedies for such default. If the default is cured within thirty (30)
days after the notice described in this Section 7.1, then no default shall exist and the noticing Party
shall take no further action.
7.2 Reimbursement Obligation. In the event that the Developer fails (a) to complete
the Project by the Mandatory Project Completion Date, or (b) to expend the full amount of the
8
Private Investment by the Mandatory Project Completion Date, then the Commission shall be
entitled to recover from Developer, as liquidated damages, One Hundred Fifty Percent (150%) of
the portion of the Funding Amount expended by the Commission in furtherance of the Local Public
Improvements (“Liquidated Damages”). The Parties acknowledge and agree that the actual
damages to the Commission, the City, and its citizens in the event of a default by Developer would
be difficult or impossible to determine, and the Liquidated Damages set forth above represents the
best estimate of the Parties as to the amount of such damages at the time of execution and delivery
of this Agreement. If the Developer fails to perform and complete the work within the timeframe
fixed for completion, the Liquidated Damages shall be considered not as a penalty, but as agreed
upon monetary damages sustained by the Commission, the City, and citizens of South Bend for
the Commission’s direct investment into the Project, the negative impact upon the Commission’s
ability to develop other projects in South Bend, and expenses of City employees supporting the
Project, including, redevelopment staff, engineering staff, legal department staff, and a
construction manager on site. In addition to the Liquidated Damages described herein, and not in
lieu thereof, the Commission shall retain all rights and remedies available under the Purchase
Agreement, including, without limitation, the reversionary interest and the right to re‑enter the
Property and cause title to revest in the Commission pursuant to Section 7(b)(1)(a) of the Purchase
Agreement.
7.3 Force Majeure. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this
Agreement, none of the Parties shall be deemed to be in default where delays in performance or
failures to perform are due to, and a necessary outcome of, war, insurrection, strikes or other labor
disturbances, walk-outs, riots, floods, earthquakes, fires, casualties, acts of God, acts of terrorism,
restrictions imposed or mandated by governmental entities, enactment of conflicting state or
federal laws or regulations, new or supplemental environments regulations, contract defaults by
third parties, or similar basis for excused performance which is not within the reasonable control
of the Party to be excused (each, an event of “Force Majeure”). Upon the request of any of the
Parties, a reasonable extension of any date or deadline set forth in this Agreement due to such
cause will be granted in writing for a period necessitated by the event of Force Majeure, or longer
as may be mutually agreed upon by all the Parties.
SECTION 8. NO AGENCY, JOINT VENTURE, OR PARTNERSHIP; CONFLICT OF
INTEREST; INDEMNITY.
8.1 No Agency, Joint Venture or Partnership. The Parties acknowledge and agree that:
(a) The Project is a private development;
(b) None of the Commission, the Board of Works, or the Developer has any
interest or responsibilities for, or due to, third parties concerning any improvements until
such time, and only until such time, that the Commission, the Board of Works, and/or the
Developer expressly accepts the same; and
(c) The Parties hereby renounce the existence of any form of agency
relationship, joint venture or partnership between the Commission, the Board of Works,
and the Developer and agree that nothing contained herein or in any document executed in
9
connection herewith shall be construed as creating any such relationship between the
Commission, the Board of Works, and the Developer.
8.2 Conflict of Interest; Commission Representatives Not Individually Liable. No
member, official, or employee of the Commission or the City may have any personal interest,
direct or indirect, in this Agreement, nor shall any such member, official, or employee participate
in any decision relating to this Agreement which affects his or her personal interests or the interests
of any corporation, partnership, or association in which he or she is, directly or indirectly,
interested. No member, official, or employee of the Commission or the City shall be personally
liable to the Developer, or any successor in interest, in the event of any default or breach by the
Commission or for any amount which may become due to the Developer, or its successors and
assigns, or on any obligations under the terms of this Agreement. No partner, member, employee,
or agent of the Developer or successors of them shall be personally liable to the Commission under
this Agreement.
8.3 Indemnity. The Developer agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the
Commission and the City from and against any third-party claims suffered by the Commission or
the City resulting from or incurred in connection with the Local Public Improvements or the
Project. The Commission shall indemnify and hold harmless Developer and its affiliates, and their
respective officers, directors, members, managers, employees, agents, and representatives, solely
from and against third‑party claims arising out of the Commission’s failure to timely make
payments due for the Local Public Improvements. The Commission shall have no duty to defend,
and nothing in this Section shall be construed to require the Commission to indemnify Developer
for claims relating to the design, specifications, construction means or methods, performance, or
completion of the Local Public Improvements or the Project, or for any other matters beyond the
Commission’s payment obligations for the Local Public Improvements, all of which are the
responsibility of Developer and its contractors.
SECTION 9. MISCELLANEOUS.
9.1 Severability. If any term or provision of this Agreement is held by a court of
competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void, or unenforceable, the remaining terms and provisions
of this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect unless amended or modified by mutual
consent of the parties.
9.2 Waiver. Neither the failure nor any delay on the part of a Party to exercise any
right, remedy, power, or privilege under this Agreement shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall
any single or partial exercise of any right, remedy, power, or privilege preclude any other or further
exercise of the same or of any right, remedy, power, or privilege with respect to any occurrence
be construed as a waiver of any such right, remedy, power, or privilege with respect to any other
occurrence. No waiver shall be effective unless it is in writing and is signed by the party asserted
to have granted such waiver.
9.3 Other Necessary Acts. Each Party shall execute and deliver to the other Parties all
such other further instruments and documents as may be reasonably necessary to accomplish the
Project and the Local Public Improvements contemplated by this Agreement and to provide and
secure to the other Parties the full and complete enjoyment of its rights and privileges hereunder.
10
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Parties understand and agree that certain actions contemplated
by this Agreement may be required to be undertaken by persons, agencies, or entities that are not
a party to this Agreement, including, but not limited to certain permits, consents, and/or approvals
(to the extent they have not yet been obtained and completed), and that any action by such third
parties shall require independent approval by the respective person, agency, entity, or governing
body thereof.
9.4 Dispute Resolution; Jurisdiction; Waiver of Jury Trial. Any action to enforce the
terms or conditions of this Agreement or otherwise concerning a dispute under this Agreement
will be commenced in the courts of St. Joseph County, Indiana, unless the Parties mutually agree
to an alternative method of dispute resolution. The Parties acknowledge that disputes arising under
this Agreement are likely to be complex and they desire to streamline and minimize the cost of
resolving such disputes. In any legal proceeding, each Party irrevocably waives the right to trial
by jury in any action, counterclaim, dispute, or proceeding based upon, or related to, the subject
matter of this Agreement. This waiver applies to all claims against all parties to such actions and
proceedings. This waiver is knowingly, intentionally, and voluntarily made by both Parties.
9.5 Attorneys’ Fees. In the event the Commission pursues any legal action (including
arbitration) to enforce or interpret this Agreement, Developer shall pay Commission’s reasonable
attorneys’ fees and other costs and expenses (including expert witness fees).
9.6 Equal Employment Opportunity. The Developer, for itself and its successors and
assigns, agrees that during the construction of the Project:
(a) The Developer will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for
employment because of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The Developer agrees
to post in conspicuous places, available to employees and applicants for employment,
notices setting forth the provisions of this nondiscrimination clause; and
(b) The Developer will state, in all solicitations or advertisements for
employees placed by or on behalf of the Developer, that all qualified applicants will receive
consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
9.7 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in separate counterparts, each of
which when so executed shall be an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the
same instrument. Any electronically transmitted version of a manually executed original shall be
deemed a manually executed original.
9.8 Notices and Demands. Any notice, demand, or other communication required or
permitted under the terms of this Agreement may be delivered (a) by hand-delivery (which will be
deemed delivered at the time of receipt), (b) by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested
(which will be deemed delivered three (3) days after mailing), or (c) by overnight courier service
(which will be deemed delivered on the next business day) to each Party’s respective addresses
and representatives stated below.
Developer: KCG Development LLC
Attn: RJ Pasquesi
11
9311 N Meridian St. Suite 100
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Email: rpasquesi@kcgcompanies.com
With a copy to: Stefani Thomas, Esq.
26050 Mureau Rd, Suite 200
Calabasas, CA 91302
Email: sthomas@walkerdunlop.com
With a copy to: Thomas Stone, Est.
26050 Mureau Rd, Suite 200
Calabasas, CA 91302
Email: tstone@walkerdunlop.com
Commission: South Bend Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
Suite 500
South Bend, IN 46601
Attn: Executive Director, South Bend Department of
Community Investment
With a copy to: South Bend Legal Department
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
Suite 600
South Bend, IN 46601
Attn: Corporation Counsel
9.9 Governing Law. This Agreement is governed by and construed in accordance with
the laws of the State of Indiana.
9.10 Authority. Each undersigned person executing and delivering this Agreement on
behalf of a Party represents and certifies that he or she is the duly authorized officer or
representative of such Party, that he or she has been fully empowered to execute and deliver this
Agreement on behalf of such Party, and that all necessary action to execute and deliver this
Agreement has been taken by such Party.
9.11 No Third-Party Beneficiaries. Nothing in this Agreement, express or implied, is
intended or shall be construed to confer upon any person, firm, or corporation other than the Parties
hereto and their respective successors or assigns, any remedy or claim under or by reason of this
Agreement or any term, covenant, or condition hereof, as third-party beneficiaries or otherwise,
and all of the terms, covenants, and conditions hereof shall be for the sole and exclusive benefit of
the Parties herein.
12
9.12 Assignment. The Developer’s rights under this Agreement shall be personal to the
Developer and shall not run with the land. The Developer may not assign its rights or obligations
under this Agreement to any non-affiliated third party without obtaining the Commission’s prior
written consent to such assignment, which the Commission may give or withhold in its sole
discretion. In the event the Developer seeks the Commission’s consent to any such assignment,
the Developer shall provide to the Commission all relevant information concerning the identities
of the persons or entities proposed to be involved in and an explanation of the purposes for the
proposed assignment(s).
9.13 Further Assurances. The Parties agree that they will each undertake in good faith,
as permitted by law, any action and execute and deliver any document reasonably required to carry
out the intents and purposes of this Agreement.
9.14 Exhibits. All exhibits described herein and attached hereto are incorporated into
this Agreement by reference.
9.15 Entire Agreement. No representation, promise, or inducement not included in this
Agreement will be binding upon the Parties hereto. This Agreement cannot be modified except
by mutual agreement of the Parties set forth in a written instrument signed by the Parties’
authorized representatives.
9.16 Time. Time is of the essence of this Agreement.
Signature Page Follows
13
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereby execute this Agreement to be effective as of
the Effective Date stated above.
SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION
______________________________
Troy Warner, President
ATTEST:
______________________________
Eli Wax, Secretary
KCG DEVELOPMENT, LLC???
______________________________
KCG DEVELOPMENT, LLC, a Florida Limited Liability Company
14
EXHIBIT A
Description of Developer Property
Address: 2018 S Main St
Parcel Number: 018-8011-0484
State Parcel: 71-08-13-355-002.000-026
Legal Description: Lot 29 Bowmans Add To Town Myler Now Pt City South Bend
Address: 2020 S Main St
Parcel Number: 018-8011-050001
State Parcel: 71-08-13-355-003.000-026
Legal Description: Lot 26 Thru 28 Bowman Add To Town Of Myler Now Pt Of City Of So Bend
Address: 18 VAC LOT 96X165 MAIN ST
Parcel Number: 018-8011-0500
State Parcel: 71-08-13-355-004.000-026
Legal Description: Lots 24 And 25 Bowman Add To The Town Of Myler
15
EXHIBIT B
Project Plan
The Developer will complete the following work in accordance with the terms and
conditions of this Agreement and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations:
The Developer will complete the development of an apartment building with fifty (50)
affordable housing units in accordance with the Developer’s Indiana Housing and
Community Development Authority Low Income Housing Tax Credit application.
The Developer will expend a minimum of $13,000,000 on the project.
The Developer will complete the work contemplated herein in accordance with the terms
and conditions of this Agreement and in compliance with all applicable laws and
regulations.
The structure will be considered complete upon the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy
for the entire building.
16
EXHIBIT C
Description of Local Public Improvements
As of the date of this Agreement, it is the parties intent that the Commission will complete,
or cause to be completed, the following work in accordance with the terms and conditions of this
Agreement and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations:
• Site and foundation preparation and work; and
• Pavement of sidewalks, parking lot, other paved surfaces; and
• Stormwater related expenses including overall drainage systems; and
• Any other local public improvements eligible to be paid from tax increment finance
revenues as agreed upon between the Parties.
Upon receipt and approval of the contract amounts relating to the Local Public
Improvements, the Parties shall identify contracts, or portions thereof, with an aggregate
value equal to the Funding Amount. The Parties may thereafter transfer or assign, in whole
or in part, any such contracts necessary to implement the Project Plan to the Developer or
its affiliates. It is understood between the Parties that the Commission will contribute an
amount not to exceed the Funding Amount specified in Section 1.3 of this Agreement for
the Local Public Improvements. The Developer shall have the sole responsibility to fund
any and all costs associated with Local Public Improvements which exceeds this amount.
Any and all costs associated with improvements not explicitly described above and not
approved pursuant to Section 4.9 (“Specifications for Local Public Improvements”) or that
require funding above the Funding Amount are the sole responsibility of the Developer.
17
EXHIBIT D
Form of Easement
18
GRANT OF TEMPORARY EASEMENT
THIS INDENTURE, made as of the _________ of ____________, 2026 (the “Effective
Date”), by and between KCG Development, LLC , a Florida Limited Liability Company and/or
its permitted assigns with its mailing address at 9311 N Meridian Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis,
IN 46260 (the “Grantor”), and the South Bend Redevelopment Commission, governing body of
the City of South Bend Department of Redevelopment, 1400S County-City Building, 227 West
Jefferson Boulevard, South Bend, Indiana 46601 (the “Grantee”).
WITNESSETH:
For the sum of One Dollar ($1.00) and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt
of which Grantor hereby acknowledges, Grantor hereby grants, conveys, and warrants to Grantee
a temporary, non-exclusive easement (the “Easement”) on, in, over, under and across the real
property described in attached Exhibit 1 (the “Property”) for the construction, equipping, and
delivery of certain improvements on the Property (the “Local Public Improvements”), together
with the right of ingress to and egress from the Easement for said purposes, all pursuant to a certain
Development Agreement by and between Grantor and Grantee, dated ____________, 2026 (the
“Development Agreement”). Capitalized terms not otherwise defined herein shall have the
meanings set forth in the Development Agreement.
The Easement granted herein shall pertain to the air, surface, and subsurface rights and
interests of Grantor, for the use and benefit of Grantee, and its successors and assigns, to the extent
necessary to accomplish and carry out the construction, equipping, and delivery of the Local
Improvements on the Property. The Easement hereby granted includes the right and privilege for
Grantee at reasonable times to clean and remove from said Easement any debris or obstructions
interfering with said Easement.
The Easement granted herein, and its associated benefits and obligations, shall inure to the
benefit of Grantee and Grantee’s contractors acting on Grantee’s behalf in connection with the
Local Public Improvements.
Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, unless extended in writing by
Grantor, the Easement shall terminate and be of no further force and effect on the date (hereinafter,
the “Construction Termination Date”) of the earliest of the following: (a) completion of the Local
Public Improvements (b) such earlier date as Grantor and Grantee may agree to in writing.
19
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Grantor has executed this Grant of Temporary Easement on
the date shown in the acknowledgment set forth below to be effective as of the Effective Date.
GRANTOR:
KCG Development LLC
Printed:
Its:
STATE OF _________________ )
) SS:
COUNTY OF _________________ )
Before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public in and for said State, personally appeared
___________, to me known to be the ___________ of the Grantor in the above Grant of
Temporary Easement, and acknowledged the execution of the same as the Grantor’s free and
voluntary act and deed.
WITNESS my hand and Notarial Seal this __________ day of _______________, 20____.
________________________________________________
___________________________________, Notary Public
Residing in _________________ County, _____________
My Commission Expires: _______________________
I affirm, under the penalties for perjury, that I have taken reasonable care to redact each Social Security number in this document, unless
required by law. /s/ Adam E. Taylor
This instrument was prepared by Adam E. Taylor, Assistant City Attorney, City of South Bend, Indiana, Department of Law, 215 S. Dr. Martin
Luther King Blvd., South Bend, IN 46601.
20
EXHIBIT 1
Description of Property
Address: 2018 S Main St
Parcel Number: 018-8011-0484
State Parcel: 71-08-13-355-002.000-026
Legal Description: Lot 29 Bowmans Add To Town Myler Now Pt City South Bend
Address: 2020 S Main St
Parcel Number: 018-8011-050001
State Parcel: 71-08-13-355-003.000-026
Legal Description: Lot 26 Thru 28 Bowman Add To Town Of Myler Now Pt Of City Of So Bend
Address: 18 VAC LOT 96X165 MAIN ST
Parcel Number: 018-8011-0500
State Parcel: 71-08-13-355-004.000-026
Legal Description: Lots 24 And 25 Bowman Add To The Town Of Myler
21
EXHIBIT E
Form of Report to Commission
22
City of South Bend
Department of Community Investment
Development Agreement Review
Answer the below questions and return to the Department of Community Investment.
Project Information
Project Name: __________________________________________________________
Address: _______________________________________________________________
Construction Completed to Date:
Project Schedule Update:
Itemized Accounting of Private Investment to Date:
Number of Jobs Created:
Name: _______________________________________
Address: _______________________________________
_______________________________________
Position: _______________________________________
Email: _______________________________________
Signature: ___________________________________ Date: ___________________
23
EXHIBIT F
Minimum Insurance Amounts
A. Worker’s Compensation
1. State Statutory
2. Applicable Federal Statutory
3. Employer’s Liability $100,000.00
B. Comprehensive General Liability
a. $5,000,000.00 Each Occurrence
b. $5,000,000.00 Annual Aggregate Products
and Completed Operation
2. Property Damage
a. $5,000,000.00 Each Occurrence
b. $5,000,000.00 Annual Aggregate
C. Comprehensive Automobile Liability
1. Bodily Injury
a. $500,000.00 Each Person
b. $500,000.00 Each Accident
2. Property Damage
a. $500,000.00 Each Occurrence
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Redevelopment Commission Agenda Item
DATE : 3/9/2026
FROM: Joseph Molnar,
Assistant Director, Growth & Opportunity
SUBJECT: Budget Request
Morris Parking Garage Design
Funding Source* (circle) River West; River East; South Side; Douglas Road; West Washington; RDC General; Riv. East Res.
* Funds are subject to the City Controller's determination of availability; if funds are unavailable, as solely determined by the City Controller,
then the authorization of the expenditure of such funds shall be void and of no effect.
PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Approval of $2,000,000 for Design and Site Preparation for the Morris Performing Arts Center Parking
Garage
SPECIFICS:
Over the past few years, the City has completed multiple phases of The NeverEnding Encore which was
the culmination of the 100-year anniversary of the Morris Performing Arts Center. Phase I was
approximately $10 Million in improvements in the existing historical theater. Phase II was the newly
completed Raclin Murphy Encore Center, which is a 20,000 square foot expansion attached to the Morris.
Phase III has been envisioned as a new approximate 473 space parking garage attached to the western
portion of the Raclin Murphy Encore Center.
In addition to The NeverEnding Encore project, the Redevelopment Commission released a Request for
Proposals for a partnership to add a residential apartment building adjacent to the proposed parking
garage. The Redevelopment Commission voted on July 10, 2026, to proceed with negotiations with local
development firm 7 Diamonds. City staff have had ongoing negotiations with 7 Diamonds and hope to
have a finalized Development Agreement to present to the RDC this summer.
The attached Budget Request would provide funding for the full design of the proposed parking garage as
well as funding for required site preparation that is needed to be completed in 2026 including the
demolition of the former South Bend Water Works building, removal of existing parking lots, and site
grading in preparation for construction to begin in 2027. Full funding for the construction of the parking
garage will require multiple funding streams including donated funds from private partners. The
requested funding will provide all needed funding prior to full construction.
______________ ___________Pres/V-Pres
ATTEST: __________ ________Secretary
Date: _____________ _______
APPROVED Not Approved
SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
A fully finished parking garage will complete the overhaul and modernization of the Morris Performing
Arts Center, ensuring the theater’s success as a staple in downtown South Bend as well as providing
needed parking for north downtown.
Staff recommends approval.
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Redevelopment Commission Agenda Item
DATE : 3/9/2026
FROM: Joseph Molnar,
Assistant Director, Growth & Opportunity
SUBJECT: Demolition of former River Glen Office Park
and Design Funding
Funding Source* (circle) River West; River East; South Side; Douglas Road; West Washington; RDC General; Riv. East Res.
* Funds are subject to the City Controller's determination of availability; if funds are unavailable, as solely determined by the City Controller,
then the authorization of the expenditure of such funds shall be void and of no effect.
PURPOSE OF REQUEST: $1,700,000 for the demolition of three office buildings at River Glen Office Park
and Design Funding for redevelopment
SPECIFICS:
The Redevelopment Commission acquired the former River Glen Office Park in 2024 for the purposes of
redeveloping the valuable five-acre river adjacent property. The Redevelopment Commission issued a
Request for Proposals for the site and RDC staff have had continued ongoing discussions with multiple
different developers. Through the RFP process and discussions with developers, it became clear that the
existing buildings are not suitable for redevelopment in their current layout and will need to be
demolished for the site to reach its full potential.
Upkeep costs and carrying costs for the three existing former office buildings are currently the
responsibility of the Redevelopment Commission. Spending additional resources on the buildings with
knowledge that they will not be redeveloped is counterproductive. The proposed budget request provides
funding for the demolition of the buildings in 2026 and site preparation for eventual redevelopment. This
will save RDC funding currently being expended on management and upkeep of the buildings.
Also included in this Budget Request is funding for design costs for the redevelopment of the property.
The City envisions the five plus acre site being fully redeveloped which will require considerable design of
possible changes to right-of-way and utilities similar in scale to the redevelopment spearheaded by J.C.
Hart to the immediate north of River Glen. Having these design funds allocated now will allow City staff to
be proactive in design considerations for potential redevelopment. This will allow for more accurate total
costs of redevelopment as RDC staff further negotiate with potential developers.
Staff recommends approval.
______________ ___________Pres/V-Pres
ATTEST: __________ ________Secretary
Date: _____________ _______
APPROVED Not Approved
SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Redevelopment Commission Agenda Item
DATE : March 5th 2026
FROM: Erin Michaels, Property Development
Manager
SUBJECT: Accepting transfer of 821 Portage Ave & 808
Cushing St from BPW
Funding Source* (circle) River West; River East; South Side; Douglas Road; West Washington; RDC General; Riv. East Res.
* Funds are subject to the City Controller's determination of availability; if funds are unavailable, as solely determined by the City Controller,
then the authorization of the expenditure of such funds shall be void and of no effect.
PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Approve Resolution No. 3667 Accepting Transfer of 821 Portage Ave & 808
Cushing St from BPW to RDC
SPECIFICS: The City of South Bend, through the entity of the Board of Public Works (BPW) is the owner
of two vacant parcels at 821 Portage Ave & 808 Cushing St and acquired these parcels through an
agreement with Near Northwest Neighborhood Inc in 2013 and 2008 respectively.
Since acquisition of these parcels the Near Northwest Neighborhood has seen significant revitalization
and redevelopment, and City Staff believe that the Redevelopment Commission (RDC) is a more
appropriate entity than BPW to own this property. If redevelopment plans are ever proposed for these
parcels, the RDC can take the appropriate actions necessary for the redevelopment.
BPW approved their matching resolution authorizing the transfer of this property to the RDC at their
meeting on March 10, 2026 and staff recommends approval of this resolution.
______________ ___________Pres/V-Pres
ATTEST: __________ ________Secretary
Date: _____________ _______
APPROVED Not Approved
SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
RESOLUTION NO. 3667
A RESOLUTION OF THE SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
ACCEPTING THE TRANSFER OF REAL PROPERTY FROM
THE SOUTH BEND BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS
WHEREAS, the South Bend Redevelopment Commission (the “Commission”) is the
governing body of the City of South Bend, Indiana (the “City”), Department of Redevelopment
and exists and operates pursuant to Indiana Code Section 36-7-14 (the “Act”); and
WHEREAS, the South Bend Board of Public Works (the “Board”) exists and operates
pursuant to Indiana Code Section 36-4-9-5, holds real property owned by the City pursuant to
Indiana Code Section 36-9-6-3, and is authorized to transfer such property to another governmental
entity pursuant to Indiana Code Section 36-1-11-8; and
WHEREAS, the Board owns two parcels of real property in the River West Development
Area of the City at 821 Portage Ave and 808 Cushing St., which is more particularly described on
Exhibit A (the "Property") and
WHEREAS, pursuant to declaratory resolutions previously adopted and amended from
time to time, the Commission has declared a certain area of the City known as the “River West
Development Area” as a redevelopment area and an allocation area under the Act and approved
an economic development plan for the Area; and
WHEREAS, the Commission desires to obtain title to the Property to encourage the
redevelopment of the property and for any other purpose authorized by the Act; and
WHEREAS, the Board approved the conveyance of the Property pursuant to its Resolution
12-2026 at its regular meeting held on March 10, 2026.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION AS FOLLOWS:
1. The Commission hereby accepts the conveyance of the Property from the Board
pursuant to I.C. 36-1-11-8 in the form of a quit claim deed substantially similar to the document
attached hereto as Exhibit B, conveying all of the Board’s right, title, and interest in the Property
to the Commission.
2. The Commission authorizes Erin Michaels of the City’s Department of Community
Investment to act on behalf of the Commission in presenting the deed for recordation in the Office
of the Recorder of St. Joseph County, Indiana and executing any other document necessary to
affect the Commission’s acceptance of the Property.
3. This Resolution will be in full force and effect upon its adoption by the
Commission.
ADOPTED at a meeting of the South Bend Redevelopment Commission held on March
12, 2026.
SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION
______________________________
Troy Warner, President
ATTEST:
______________________________
Eli Wax, Secretary
EXHIBIT A
Legal Description
Parcel I
Parcel No. 71-08-02-404-002.000-026
Tax ID: 018-1058-2458
Legal Description: Lot 1 Studebaker Bros Mfg Sub Of 112 & 50 X 82 Ft No End Lot 2
Commonly Known As: 821 PORTAGE, SOUTH BEND, IN 46628
Parcel II
Parcel No. 71-08-02-404-001.000-026
Tax ID: 018-1058-2460
Legal Description: Lot 2 Studebaker Bros Mfg Co W 38' Lot 2 W 38 Ft Lot 3
Commonly Known As: 808 CUSHING, SOUTH BEND, IN 46628
EXHIBIT B
Form of Quit Claim Deed
HOLD FOR: AUDITOR’S RECORD:
City of South Bend TRANSFER NO.
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Suite 500 TAXING UNIT:
South Bend, IN 46601 DATE:
PARCEL NO. 018-1058-2458
018-1058-2460
QUIT CLAIM DEED
THIS INDENTURE WITNESSETH THAT the Civil City of South Bend, Indiana, acting by and through
its Board of Public Works (the “Grantor”) CONVEYS AND QUIT CLAIMS TO the Department of
Redevelopment of the City of South Bend, for the use and benefit of its Department of Redevelopment, by
and through its governing body, the South Bend Redevelopment Commission (the “Grantee”), for and in
consideration of Ten Dollars ($10.00) and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is
hereby acknowledged, the real estate located in St. Joseph County, Indiana:
See Attached Exhibit “A”
Grantor hereby conveys the Property subject to all covenants, restrictions, easements, and other matters of
record.
The undersigned persons executing this Quit Claim Deed on behalf of the Grantor represent and certify that
each has been fully empowered and authorized to execute this Quit Claim Deed and that all action necessary
to complete this conveyance on Grantor’s behalf has been duly taken.
[Signature page follows.]
Dated this day of 2026.
GRANTOR:
Civil City of South Bend, Indiana,
acting by and through its
Board of Public Works
By:
Elizabeth Maradik, President
ATTEST:
_______________________________________
Hillary Horvath Clerk
STATE OF INDIANA )
) SS:
ST. JOSEPH COUNTY )
Before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public for and in said County and State this _____ day of
, 2026, personally appeared Elizabeth Maradik and Hillary Horvath, known to me
to be, respectively, as the President and Clerk of the City of South Bend, Indiana, Board of Public Works,
the Grantor named herein, and acknowledged the execution of the foregoing Quit Claim Deed, being
authorized by Resolution -2026 of the City of South Bend, Indiana, Board of Public
Works so to do.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my official seal.
, Notary Public
Resident of St. Joseph County, Indiana
Commission expires:
I affirm, under the penalties for perjury, that I have taken reasonable care to redact each Social Security number in this document,
unless required by law. Danielle Campbell Weiss
Prepared by Danielle Campbell Weiss, Assistant City Attorney, 215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Suite 600., South Bend,
Indiana 46601
Exhibit A
Parcel I
Parcel No. 71-08-02-404-002.000-026
Tax ID: 018-1058-2458
Legal Description: Lot 1 Studebaker Bros Mfg Sub Of 112 & 50 X 82 Ft No End Lot 2
Commonly Known As: 821 PORTAGE, SOUTH BEND, IN 46628
Parcel II
Parcel No. 71-08-02-404-001.000-026
Tax ID: 018-1058-2460
Legal Description: Lot 2 Studebaker Bros Mfg Co W 38' Lot 2 W 38 Ft Lot 3
Commonly Known As: 808 CUSHING, SOUTH BEND, IN 46628
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Redevelopment Commission Agenda Item
DATE : March 5th, 2026
FROM: Erin Michaels, Property Development
Manager
SUBJECT: Lease Agreement for Temporary Parking with
St. Joseph County Board of Commissioners
Funding Source* (circle) River West; River East; South Side; Douglas Road; West Washington; RDC General; Riv. East Res.
* Funds are subject to the City Controller's determination of availability; if funds are unavailable, as solely determined by the City Controller,
then the authorization of the expenditure of such funds shall be void and of no effect.
PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Approval of the proposed Lease Agreement for Temporary Parking with St.
Joseph County Board of Commissioners
SPECIFICS: The Redevelopment Commission owns two surface parking lots in downtown located at the
southeast corner of Wayne St & Lafayette Blvd and south of the Lafayette Building. These parking lots
were historically used by the City for employee parking. Now that the City has relocated staff to City Hall
these parking lots are no longer needed for employee parking.
Representatives from the St. Joseph County Board of Commissioners and City staff have negotiated the
proposed Lease Agreement for Temporary Parking for the County’s parking needs.
The lease would be effective on March 12, 2026 if approved by the RDC and can be terminated at any
time by either party with 90 days' notice to accommodate future development of the property. The
County would pay $2,000/month in rent to the RDC, however in exchange for performing repairs to the
property in the form of sealcoating, striping, the rent would be abated equal to the amount expended by
the County with sufficient invoices provided for the City staff’s review. The County will also be required
to maintain these parking lots and are responsible for snow and ice removal.
This lease will allow these parking lots to be maintained and have an active use until such time as
redevelopment opportunities are presented for the property. Staff recommends approval of this
agreement.
______________ ___________Pres/V-Pres
ATTEST: __________ ________Secretary
Date: _____________ _______
APPROVED Not Approved
SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
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LEASE AGREEMENT FOR TEMPORARY PARKING
This Lease Agreement For Temporary Parking (this "Agreement") is made on March 12,
2026 (the "Effective Date"), by and between the South Bend Redevelopment Commission, governing
body of the City of South Bend Department of Redevelopment (the "Commission"), and the St.
Joseph County Board of Commissioners, a political subdivision of the state of Indiana with its
registered office at 227 W. Jefferson South Bend IN 46601 (the "County") (each a "Party," and
collectively, the "Parties").
RECITALS
A. The Commission owns certain real property and improvements located within the
River West Development Area of the City of South Bend, Indiana (the "City"), described more
particularly in Exhibit A (the "Property").
B. The County desires to lease the Property for the purpose of parking passenger
vehicles of the County's employees and tenants residing in and licensees and invitees visiting the
building at 227 W. Jefferson South Bend IN 46601 owned and operated by the County as well as
the buildings located in the County’s Court complex (collectively, the "County's Building").
C. The Commission is willing to permit the County to gain access to and lease the
Property to provide parking spaces to the County's employees, tenants, licensees, and invitees,
subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants set forth in this Agreement,
the Parties agree as follows:
I. Lease. The Commission grants to the County a temporary, non-exclusive lease to
enter and use all parking spaces located on the Property (the "Parking Spaces") for the parking of
passenger vehicles of the County's employees and tenants residing in the County's Building and
licensees and invitees visiting the County's Building, provided that the County's use of the
Property is reasonable at all times and comports with the terms of this Agreement and all
applicable laws. The Commission, or its authorized representative, reserves the right to
specifically designate the location and configuration of the Parking Spaces on the Property that
are available for the County's use and may modify such location or configuration during the Term
(as defined below) upon reasonable notice to the County. The County's license is limited to use
of the Parking Spaces as stated above and a reasonable course of ingress to and egress from the
Parking Spaces.
2. Term. The County's license to use the Parking Spaces shall be effective starting on
March 12, 2026 and shall terminate upon revocation as set forth in this Agreement (the "Term").
Upon ninety (90) days' written notice to the County, the Commission or the Commission's
authorized representative may revoke and terminate the license at any time for any reason,
including, without limitation, to accommodate future development of the Property or the
surrounding area, as determined in its, his, or her sole discretion. Notwithstanding the foregoing
sentence, the Commission or the Commission's authorized representative may revoke and
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terminate the license without notice in the event there exists any default of the County's
obligations under this Agreement.
3. No Lease or Easement; Assignment. The Commission represents that it is the sole
owner in fee simple of the Property and has the lawful right to permit the County to use the
Property under this Agreement. The Parties acknowledge and intend that this Agreement will not
constitute a lease of or an easement over the Property or the Parking Spaces, and the County will
have no right or authority to convey any leasehold or other interest in the Property or the Parking
Spaces to any other person or entity, provided, however, that the County may permit the employees
and tenants of County's Building to use the Parking Spaces licensed to County hereunder and may
charge the tenants a fee for such use. Except as expressly provided in this Agreement, any attempt
by the County to grant or lease any interest in the Property or the Parking Spaces to any other
person or entity will be void ab initio and of no force or effect. The Parties agree that neither this
Agreement nor any of the County's rights under this Agreement may be assigned, in whole or in
part, to any other party without the Commission's prior written consent.
4. Rent. In consideration for the license granted in this Agreement, the County will
pay a monthly rent of Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00) (the "Rent"). The County will pay to the
Commission the Rent on the first business day of each month during the Term of this Agreement.
In addition, in exchange for the County performing repairs to the Property in the form of
sealcoating, striping, and other parking lot maintenance tasks, the Commission agrees to abate the
County’s payment of the Rent until the cumulative amount abated is equal to the amount expended
by the County for the repairs under the terms of this Agreement. The County will provide the
Commission staff verified invoices of all work performed before commencement of the abatement
of the Rent.
5. Maintenance. At all times during the period of the lease, the County will keep the
Property in good order and condition, including, without limitation, clearing all ice and snow from
the Parking Spaces (as the same may be designated or configured from time to time pursuant to
Section 1 of this Agreement) and any path of vehicular access to such Parking Spaces from the
public rights-of-way abutting the Property, which will be the County's responsibility unless the
City or the Commission undertakes to remove ice and snow from the entirety of the Property. The
County, at its discretion, will perform all necessary repairs to the Property in the form of
sealcoating, striping and other parking lot maintenance tasks excluding those tasks that would
pertain to clearing of ice and snow from the Property and maintaining clear access to Parking
Spaces and in exchange for those repairs the Rent will be abated per the terms of Section 4.
6. Security. The County understands and agrees that the Commission shall not be
liable for any loss, damage, destruction, or theft of the County's property or any bodily harm or
injury that may result from the County's use of the Property. The County understands and agrees
that it will at all times be solely responsible for the safety and security of all persons, property,
and vehicles, including any property contained within the vehicles, on the Property in connection
with the County's use of the Parking Spaces under the terms of this Agreement.
7. Storage. The County agrees that it will not store any supplies, materials, goods, or
personal property of any kind on the Property without the prior written consent of the
Commission. In addition, the County will not cause or permit, knowingly or unknowingly, any
hazardous material to be brought or remain upon, kept, used, discharged, leaked, or emitted at the
Property.
8. Regulations; Other Permits. The County understands and agrees that it will, at its
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own expense, observe and comply with all applicable statutes, laws, ordinances, requirements, orders,
rules, and regulations of all governmental authorities in relation to its use of the Parking Spaces. The
County understands and agrees that it will secure in its own name and at its own expense all other
permits and authorizations, if any, necessary for its use of the Parking Spaces in accordance with
the terms of this Agreement.
9. Commission's Use. The Commission reserves the right to use the Property during the
Term of this Agreement for any purpose that does not substantially interfere with or obstruct the
County's license under this Agreement.
10. Restoration. To the extent that any portion of the Property is disturbed or damaged in
connection with the County's use of the Property, including disturbances or damage caused by the
vehicles of the County's employees, tenants, licensees, or invitees, the County, at the County's sole
expense, shall restore the Property to the condition that existed immediately prior to such disturbance
or damage to the satisfaction of the Commission
11. Property Taxes. The County will be responsible, if applicable under Indiana law, for
the payment of all real property taxes and assessments, of any nature whatsoever (the "Taxes"), levied
against the portion of the Property containing the Parking Spaces for all periods during the term of the
County's license. The Commission will have no liability for any Taxes associated with the Property,
whether accruing during the term of the license or after the term of the license, and nothing in this
Agreement will be construed to require the proration or other apportionment of Taxes resulting in the
Commission's liability therefor.
12. Indemnification. The County agrees and undertakes to defend, indemnify, and hold
harmless the City and the Commission, and their respective officials, employees, agents, successors,
and assigns, from and against any liability, loss, costs, damages, or expenses, including attorneys' fees,
which the City or the Commission may suffer or incur as a result of any claims or actions which may
be brought by any person or entity arising out of the license granted herein by the Commission or the
County's use of the Property or the Parking Spaces unless due to the City or Commission’s negligence.
If any action is brought against the City or the Commission, or their respective officials, employees,
agents, successors, and assigns, in connection with the County's use of the Property, the County agrees
to defend such action or proceedings at its own expense and to pay any judgment rendered therein.
13. Counterparts; Signatures. This Agreement may be separately executed in counterparts
by the Commission and the County, and the same, when taken together, will be regarded as one original
Agreement. Electronically transmitted signatures will be regarded as original signatures.
14. Authority. Each undersigned person signing on behalf of his or her respective Party
certifies that he or she is duly authorized to bind his or her respective Party to the terms of this
15. Governing Law. This Agreement will be governed by and construed in accordance
with the laws of the State of Indiana.
[Signature Page Follows]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Lease Agreement For
Temporary Parking to be effective as of the Effective Date stated above.
SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
__________________________________
Troy Warner, President
ATTEST:
______________________________
Eli Wax, Secretary
ST. JOSEPH COUNTY BOARD OF
COMMISSIONERS
______________________________
Carl Baxmeyer, President
______________________________
Anthony Hazen, Vice-President
______________________________
Rafael Morton, Member
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Exhibit A
Description of Property
Parcel ID: 018-3008-0251
State Parcel ID: 71-08-12-160-001.000-026
Legal Description: Lots 281 & 282 & W 1/2 Vac Alley E & Adj O P South Bend Sec 12-37-2E 10/11
Vac Ord 9933-09 9-18-09
Commonly Known As: 18 VAC LOT COR LAFAY-WAYNE
Parcel ID: 018-3009-0289
State Parcel ID: 71-08-12-151-004.000-026
Legal Description: 42 1/2' N Side Lot 394 Op South Bend
Commonly Known As: 117 119 LAFAYETTE
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Redevelopment Commission Agenda Item
DATE : 03/05/2026
FROM: Joe Molnar / Zach Hurst
SUBJECT: Budget Request – Qualex Demolition
Funding Source* (circle) River West; River East; South Side; Douglas Road; West Washington; RDC General; Riv. East Res.
* Funds are subject to the City Controller's determination of availability; if funds are unavailable, as solely determined by the City Controller,
then the authorization of the expenditure of such funds shall be void and of no effect.
PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Request $500,000 for the Demolition of 921 Louise Street (former Qualex
Building)
SPECIFICS: The former Qualex Building located at 921 Louise Street has a court order for demolition,
affirmed through the Neighborhood Services & Enforcement division in March of 2025. The building is in
a severe state of disrepair, with several sections of the roof collapsing, and a portion of the building has
collapsed as well.
The budget request would go towards the demolition of the commercial complex seen here:
______________ ___________Pres/V-Pres
ATTEST: __________ ________Secretary
Date: _____________ _______
APPROVED Not Approved
SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
It is anticipated that the City will acquire the parcel and prepare it for redevelopment, along with the
former YMCA parcels directly south of this property.
Significant investment has been made on the Mishawaka Ave corridor in recent years and planned for the
former YMCA property in the next few years. Demolition of this blighted property will provide immediate
benefits and safety improvements to the surrounding neighborhood and prime the property for further
redevelopment opportunities.
Staff recommends approval.
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Redevelopment Commission Agenda Item
DATE : March 9, 2026
FROM: Lidya Abreha
Project Engineer
SUBJECT: Budget Request- Howard Park Bandshell
Design
Funding Source* (circle) River West; River East; South Side; Douglas Road; West Washington; RDC General; Riv. East Res.
* Funds are subject to the City Controller's determination of availability; if funds are unavailable, as solely determined by the City Controller,
then the authorization of the expenditure of such funds shall be void and of no effect.
PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
This request is for $250,000 to fund a portion of the design services for the Howard Park Bandshell.
SPECIFICS:
The $250,000 requested will support the design of the Howard Park Bandshell, a state-of-the-art covered,
open-air performance venue intended to attract regional visitors through diverse music, entertainment,
and theatrical programming. The City is exploring multiple grant and funding opportunities to fund the full
construction of the Howard Park Bandshell. These opportunities will help leverage available City funding
for the park improvements. Planning for the bandshell began prior to the 2019 overhaul of Howard Park
and many support features of the bandshell have already been installed including electrical capacity and
other physical support items.
The City of South Bend has initiated design services with HGA and have already completed full concept
development, including visioning and programming discussions with Venues, Parks & Arts and community
partners who are expected to use the space, such as the South Bend Symphony. The completed Bandshell
will be an amenity that is unique to this area, further cementing Howard Park as a destination park for both
South Bend residents and regional visitors.
Staff requests that the Redevelopment Commission approve $250,000 from River East TIF to cover a
portion of the design costs.
Staff recommends approval.
______________ ___________Pres/V-Pres
ATTEST: __________ ________Secretary
Date: _____________ _______
APPROVED Not Approved
SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
South Bend
Redevelopment Commission
215 S. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Room 301, South Bend, Indiana
Redevelopment Commission Agenda Item
DATE : March 12th, 2026
FROM: Patrick Sherman
Director of Project Management
SUBJECT: Budget Request- River Walk Improvements:
Seitz Park to Howard Park
Funding Source* (circle) River West; River East; South Side; Douglas Road; West Washington; RDC General; Riv. East Res.
* Funds are subject to the City Controller's determination of availability; if funds are unavailable, as solely determined by the City Controller,
then the authorization of the expenditure of such funds shall be void and of no effect.
PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
This budget request is for $4M for the renovation and improvement of the river walk from the newly
developed Sietz Park to the City’s signature park, Howard Park.
SPECIFICS:
The river walk between Sietz Park and Howard Park is a heavily used section of wooden boardwalk that
needs to be replaced. The wood and wooden supports are deteriorating with age, and they sit on gabion
baskets along the river have been sinking over time creating an uneven trail surface. As the path continues
toward Howard Park under the Jefferson Bridge, the trail has awkward blind corners that is not conducive
to a safe and comfortable multi-use trail.
This project will replace this portion of river walk with a new 14’ wide, concrete multi-use trail, that will be
much more comfortable for users to use, and it will be supported by new piers for a long-lasting asset for
the community. The project also contains a new staircase on the north side of the bridge down to the
riverwalk from the bridge surface and replaces the concrete staircase that goes down to Howard Park on
the south side of the bridge to meet current design standards.
It is requested that the Redevelopment commission approves $4,000,000 from River East Residential TIF
to cover the final design and construction of this portion of the riverwalk.
Thank you for your consideration of this request.
______________ ___________Pres/V-Pres
ATTEST: __________ ________Secretary
Date: _____________ _______
APPROVED Not Approved
SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION