Big Plans For Small City Poses Questions For Residents, Officials

16 August 2006 - 8:00am

The suburban community of Carmel, Indiana, has big redevelopment plans. Though not in opposition to the proposals, some residents worry about the development encroaching on established neighborhoods, and question the direction of the city's growth.

Developers have big plans for this wealthy northern Indiananpolis suburb, including transforming a golf course into a collection of more than 2,000 condominiums, townhomes and apartments complete with offices, retail shops and a hotel -- all in the style of 1800s Manhattan.

The redevelopment plans follow on the heels of the city's effort to establish a downtown arts district. But, as is often the case with redevelopment, some residents worry that Carmel's most-established neighborhoods are in danger.

"We're left sitting here, wondering if we're next," said Angie Molt, a 20-year Carmel resident who lives in a neighborhood next to Mohawk Hills, one of the two major redevelopment sites.

"I don't want to move, but I can't control it if my neighbors want to sell to a developer."

Source: The Indianapolis Star, August 13, 2006
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However, the political reality since the Ronald Reagan/Margaret Thatcher years has promoted the individual pursuit of happiness while systematically clamping down on planning—even if it means that one’s single-minded pursuit of happiness might contribute to unhappiness for themselves and others around.