Pedestrian-friendly center in step

SCHERERVILLE | Schererville planners are doing what they can to make an incoming shopping development friendly to walkers and bicyclists.

Last week, the developer of Oak Street Commons met in a Plan Commission study session to discuss details of the site plan, including sidewalks. Figuring how to balance the need for sidewalks with the need for safety was among the issues.

The project, proposed for the east side of U.S. 41, south of Omni 41 Health & Fitness Connection, also will have a component on the west side of U.S. 41.

With Plum Creek subdivision in close proximity and the Pennsy Trail planned to connect nearby, foot traffic from outside the development is certain.

Schererville Parks Superintendent John Novacich, who sits on the Plan Commission, said traffic generators, such as shopping centers, earn trail projects more points on funding requests. The more points earned, the higher the score and the likelihood to secure funding, he said.

Eventually, Munster and Schererville will be linked via bike path, not too far from the proposed development. Novacich said he envisions people north of Schererville using that connection to access the shopping center as well.

Plan Commissioner Kevin Bradley said the commission wants Schererville to be a healthier community, something identified in the comprehensive plan. He said he would like the developer to set the bar for a greener, healthier community by encouraging people to walk and not drive to Oak Street Commons.

Ted Rohn, architect for the project, said there won't be another commercial project in northwest Indiana with so many pedestrian-friendly amenities. Plans don't include a sidewalk along U.S. 41, but commissioners requested an internal north-south walkway so pedestrians can move safely among stores in the area.

Plan Commissioner Paul Panczuk said an internal link is needed so shoppers aren't locked out of properties nearby that don't have a sidewalk or to the eventual Pennsy Trail connection to the south.

Rohn said the plans also call for a walkway at Woodhollow Drive, perpendicular to U.S. 41, that lines up with one on the opposite side of U.S. 41.