UPDATE: In a significant move for urban development, the Gary Common Council has just approved a new comprehensive plan aimed at revitalizing the city. The unanimous vote took place during a council meeting on October 3, 2024, marking a critical step in shaping Gary’s future.
The comprehensive plan, created with input from the city’s zoning and planning department alongside the Gary Plan Commission, updates a previous document from 2019 to better align with Gary’s goals for “economic growth, sustainability, and public welfare.” Councilwoman Mary Brown was absent for the vote, but the support from other council members reflects a collective commitment to progress.
City Attorney Marco Molina emphasized the plan’s importance, stating, “The comprehensive plan is designed to look for future developments in the city, to address current plan use development and to set policies for land use across the city.” This initiative follows recent actions aimed at fostering development across Gary, prompting officials to update the existing framework.
Two public hearings were conducted to gather community feedback—one on August 21 and another on September 18. The plan details specific goals that resonate with Mayor Eddie Melton’s priorities, including revitalizing the downtown area, improving public safety, and enhancing environmental practices. “Gary is at a pivotal moment—positioned to become a regional hub of opportunity, particularly for women and minority-owned businesses,” the plan states.
During the meeting, Tom Cera, President of the Gary Plan Commission, praised the comprehensive plan’s development process, highlighting the positive community involvement that shaped it. “With all the involvement by the community and the positive feedback, we urge you to pass this resolution,” Cera remarked.
The comprehensive plan spans approximately 118 pages and outlines ambitious goals including eliminating blight, increasing the population and tax base, and making significant infrastructure improvements. It aims to create a more inclusive and equitable economic landscape for the city.
Local resident Carolyn McCrady voiced her support during the meeting, describing the comprehensive plan as “amazing for our city.” However, she raised concerns about specific developments in B3 zoning that could allow for trucking facilities in residential areas. This highlights the sensitive nature of urban planning as residents balance development with quality of life.
The council’s recent actions include greenlighting a controversial development at the site of the former Alfred Beckman Middle School, which has faced public scrutiny. The approved ordinance allows for zoning changes that could lead to significant commercial development in a residential neighborhood, raising alarms about potential truck traffic and other disruptions.
Despite differing perspectives on development, Mayor Melton stated his commitment to working collaboratively with the council. “Together, I am confident we will identify thoughtful development opportunities that drive sustainable economic growth,” he declared.
As the city moves forward with this comprehensive plan, the implications for residents and businesses in Gary are profound. The next steps will involve implementing the plan’s ambitious goals while navigating community concerns about specific developments.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as Gary charts its path toward revitalization and growth.
