Land Use and Special Studies - March 4, 2026

The City of Carmel, Indiana Land Use and Special Studies Committee convened on March 4, 2026, to review and discuss two major planned unit development (PUD) projects and updates to the US 31 subarea plan. The committee received presentations from developers Pulte Homes and MBR Carmel Hialpep, focusing on architectural enhancements, masonry details, landscaping plans, drainage solutions, and right-of-way dedications. Both projects included commitments to enhanced masonry, landscaping buffers, and drainage infrastructure, with discussions addressing concerns about stormwater management and fencing materials. The committee voted to send both PUDs back to the full city council with positive recommendations. Additionally, the committee reviewed revisions to the US 31 subarea plan, which included clarifications on neighborhood input, landscaping, and development patterns. However, the committee expressed divergent views on the plan's focus and presentation, particularly regarding redevelopment emphasis and map color coding. The committee ultimately forwarded the subarea plan to the full council with a negative recommendation, highlighting the need for broader council input. Throughout the meeting, procurement-related discussions centered on development approvals, ordinance amendments, and infrastructure commitments tied to these projects.