Town Of Dillsboro Finalizing Plans For Residential Development Area

The development is being planned on the west side of town off Bank Street.

(Dillsboro, Ind.) – Plans are being finalized for a Residential Development Area (RDA) in the Town of Dillsboro.

The idea started when Dillsboro participated in a Dearborn County Housing Study sponsored by One Dearborn. During that process, Dillsboro was asked to identify possible areas for Housing Development.

Following the study, the idea for an RDA became more real and started to grow, according to Economic Development Director Susan Greco.

“In July of 2019, the Residential Housing TIF was revised (SEA 556) allowing for non-contiguous parcels located in an Economic Development Area,” said Greco. “Our Economic Development area follows the municipal boundaries.”

Last month, the Town of Dillsboro Redevelopment Commission adopted a resolution declaring a certain are within the town as the RDA Housing Development Area.

Greco tells Eagle Country 99.3 that plans are being finalized for initial development on the west side of town off Bank Street. That site is believed to be ideal since much of the utilities are already in place.

The Dillsboro Redevelopment Commission will borrow money from the Town of Dillsboro to assist with infrastructure improvements.

“The monies will be paid back using Tax Increment Financing Revenue,” said Greco. “Residents tax rates will be impacted in no way. Property values will only be impacted by market values, not by the TIF.”

Dillsboro could stand to add to their population. According to the most current U.S. Census data from 2018 , the town's population stands at 1,401. 

“More rooftops mean more children in school, which will increase district funding,” said Greco. “Greater population will mean more dollars spent in the community. It’s a win/win for Dillsboro.”

Having additional homes will also add to the municipal utility usage, meaning more properties will share the cost.

Greco says its possible for site preparation to begin in 60-90 days.

Additionally, the Dillsboro Gateway Corridor Steering Committee will choose between two different gateway signs to be placed along the U.S. 50 corridor.

The proposal includes major gateways west of Short Street and on the north side of U.S. 50 at Station Hollow Road, and minor gateways at Short Street and Industrial Circle and Front Street and Beatty Road.

Other signage would be placed closer to downtown on Bank and Front streets.

The Steering Committee is expected to make a choice on gateway signs sometime in August.