By WMBD

BLOOMINGTON – The Bloomington City Council approved a new subdivision on the city’s southwest side during its meeting on Monday.

It will be located generally north of the intersection of Fox Creek Road and Saint Ivan’s Circle.Bloomington unveils Residential Development Dashboard for website

Council members approved an annexation agreement with the developers, Aruthra LLC. In addition, a special use permit was approved so that 58 townhomes will be built on the 6.5 acres of currently unincorporated land. The land was also rezoned.

Only one neighbor raised concerns about the development at Monday’s meeting, compared to 24 at a previous public hearing.

Development Services Director Kelly Pfeifer said it reflects the work Aruthra has done to mitigate concerns.

“I would say it has public approval at this point,” she said.

Pfeifer said the company has worked with neighboring residents to calm their nerves, specifically with the treeline. Efforts have been made by Aruthra to minimize the problem.

As for the subdivision itself, it will be developed as a planned unit development and a Homeowners Association will be established.

Pfeifer described it as an “enclave,” and that it will hopefully help address the city’s housing shortage.

“We’re really excited about the ownership opportunity that this higher density housing affords us. It feels like that ‘missing middle’ that you hear about,” she said.

Aruthra LLC has agreed to pay water and sewer fees as part of the agreement.

Pfeifer anticipates construction to start either in the fall or the following spring. She said the development will take years to complete.

WMBD can be reached at [email protected].