Gary Common Council considering land usage update for single-family homes
The Gary Common Council will vote to update the land usage portion of its zoning code to combine two plats in the 1700 block of Waite Street into one. The properties are currently classified as R2 single-family dwellings, according to Gary Plan Commission documents.
At its April 17 meeting, plan commission members unanimously approved to replat the properties. Zoning Primary Contact Corrie Sharp also gave the proposal a favorable recommendation.
Council President Lori Latham, D-1st, did not say at the legislative body's latest meeting when they will vote to combine the plats.
At the plan commission's April meeting, petitioner Armond Boulware with Steel City Builders said he plans to build multi-generational homes to attract more people to Gary.
Boulware has developed the idea for multigenerational homes in the past few years, he said. Boulware believes people want to return to Gary to be caretakers for parents but have to move to surrounding communities with multigenerational options.
'We want to build high-quality homes that, as we move forward, can be easily passed on to the next generation,' he said. 'We want the next generation to see those homes as advantageous to live in.'
In the future, Boulware would also like to build duplex or multi-unit homes in Gary, he said.
By merging parcels, Boulware aims to optimize land use and enhance the property's overall functionality, according to city documents. He plans for the homes to
Boulware calls the homes 'the legacy project,' saying the properties will be single-family houses that will bring generations together under one roof.
'That means two primary suites in each home, an (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant elder suite, which is going to be on the first floor, and another suite on the second floor,' Boulware said.
The elder suite will include a curbless walk-in shower with handrails, a built-in bench, walk-in closet, and private wet bar with a mini fridge and microwave. Boulware plans for it to be positioned near the laundry and garage but tucked away from main entertainment areas for privacy.
The upstairs suite will have a lounge area, wet bar, balcony and spa-style bathroom with a freestanding tub, dual vanities, and walk-in shower areas.
'Beyond these individual spaces, our homes are built with connection in mind,' Boulware said. 'We've got open concept living rooms, we've got private outdoor entertainment spaces, and we're encouraging sharing moments and sharing spaces.'
The Gary council will vote on Boulware's petition at a later date. The next meeting is at 6 p.m. July 15.
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Chicago Tribune
3 days ago
- Chicago Tribune
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6 days ago
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6 days ago
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