Zoning Ordinance Update Project (ZOUP)
About the Project
The Zoning Ordinance Update will streamline and simplify the Borough’s zoning ordinance, making it easier to understand and enforce. It will also codify the vision for Indiana Borough’s development and land use as presented in INDIANA2030: Tomorrow Together, our comprehensive plan update, into the zoning code. This project is being conducted by the Borough of Indiana as a stand-alone project, but is related to many of the goals in INDIANA2030: Tomorrow Together.
Storefronts of Asphalt: Standards for parking do not have a form-based requirement, causing many parking lots to front commercial corridors. Setbacks or parking in front create the impression of a wide street, which encourages cars to speed, compromising pedestrian safety.
Existing Conditions
Current Zoning Map of Indiana Borough
PROJECT TIMELINE
2025 Adoption Process
The adoption of a zoning ordinance is a structured process that involves multiple steps, ensuring transparency, public involvement, and legal compliance.
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Planning Commission Recommendation - The draft zoning ordinance is reviewed at a public meeting by the Indiana Borough Planning Commission, to ensure consistency with the borough’s comprehensive plan.
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Legal Review and Compliance - The ordinance undergoes legal review from the Borough Solicitor to ensure it aligns with state laws and municipal codes.
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Public Hearing - A formal public hearing is held, allowing residents and stakeholders to voice their opinions and suggest modifications. The Borough Council considers feedback and may adjust based on community input.
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Final Adoption by Borough Council - The final version of the zoning ordinance is presented to the Borough Council for approval. If approved, the ordinance is enacted, officially becoming the guiding document for land use and development within Indiana Borough.
Project Team
The Zoning Ordinance Update is led by the Borough of Indiana. An advisory Steering Committee provides guidance and recommendations on the project. The Steering Committee consists of a wide variety of stakeholders including residents, small business owners, and institutional stakeholders. Michael Baker International, a consulting firm, was hired by the Borough to assist with the technical drafting of the zoning ordinance language, public engagement, and general project coordination.
nEXT sTEPS
Once adopted, the updated zoning ordinance will be implemented, with borough staff and officials overseeing its enforcement. Residents and developers will need to familiarize themselves with the new regulations, and the borough may provide informational sessions or resources to assist with the transition.
We invite our residents to stay involved! Community involvement is key to a successful zoning ordinance update. Residents can stay informed by:
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Attending public meetings and hearings
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Reviewing documents and proposed changes on the borough’s website
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Providing feedback to borough officials and planners
The zoning ordinance update represents an exciting step toward a more vibrant, sustainable, and well-planned Indiana Borough. By working together, we can ensure that our community continues to thrive for generations to come.
