Dave Miller from Vanco Development asked members of the Plymouth Redevelopment Commission to fund a study to determine the impact of a culvert replacement project under Pioneer Drive. The study would determine the impact to properties downstream from the culvert to Oak Road along the Schuh Ditch.
Cost for the study would be up to $35,000.
Miller reminded members that they were the ones to request the study before committing any funds to the $100,000 project to upsize the culvert under the road. The project would be beneficial not only to the Van Vactor family but to the city because profits from the sale of lots are shared with the city and new development would pay taxes that the redevelopment commission would collect.
Dave Miller has a prime lot for a hotel but changes to the flood plain maps in 2011 make the lot questionable so development would have to bring in expensive fill before building. He said he’s had at least two companies consider the location but back away because of the increased cost.
Mayor Mark Senter said economic development in the area including the aquatic center, field house and soccer complex warrant the development of the property and was in favor of funding the study.
Redevelopment members questioned ownership of the culvert. Miller confirmed that it was not Vanco Developments. He said it sits in INDOT’s right-of-way and under a city street but is regulated by the county. Miller also reminded members that TIF funds are for infrastructure projects and this project could be paid off in less than 2 years of a hotel came in.
The Plymouth Redevelopment Commission asked Clerk Treasurer Jeannie Xaver to look at funds available in TIF # 1 to determine if they have the funding available to cover the cost of the downstream study. She will report back to them at their August meeting.
