Big News for West Lafayette: The Milbrook Subdivision Moves Forward
If you’ve been around north of West Lafayette lately, you might have noticed a buzz about new developments—and the biggest news is that the Area Plan Commission of Tippecanoe County has just unanimously approved the preliminary subdivision plan for Milbrook, one of the most significant housing projects in years.
Here’s a detailed look at what this means and what’s coming to our community.
What is the Area Plan Commission?
The Area Plan Commission is the policy board responsible for overseeing zoning, land use, and development plans in Tippecanoe County. Their role is vital in ensuring sustainable growth—keeping incompatible land uses separate and approving new developments that align with the area’s long-term vision.
Introducing the Milbrook Subdivision
Milbrook is a massive new housing development planned just north of West Lafayette, extending from Salisbury/50 West all the way west past Jerger and up to 500 North. Once completed, Milbrook will feature around 1,000 homes, offering a mix of townhomes, multifamily units, and single-family homes on a variety of lot sizes.
The recent approval covers the preliminary plans for the first portion of the development—about 400 homes spread across several neighborhoods within the overall Milbrook area. The Area Plan Commission gave this initial plan their unanimous blessing, signaling strong support for the project.
What Will the Neighborhood Look Like?
The entire development covers a broad swath of land, stretching east to west and north to south, with different zones designated for various housing types. The preliminary approval focuses on three key neighborhoods in the central section.
The residential zoning includes townhomes clustered in the southern part and single-family homes on lots that vary in size. These zoning distinctions follow the county’s residential codes, ensuring a mix of housing to meet diverse needs while maintaining neighborhood character.
Addressing Affordability and Market Position
One point of conversation among community members has been the projected starting price for Milbrook homes—estimated to be over $500,000. This sparked questions about affordability and who the development is catering to.
It’s important to understand this in context. The median home price in Tippecanoe County is just over $300,000, a figure that includes everything—from fixer-uppers to high-end homes. So while $500,000 is a premium price, it aligns more closely with new construction prices in West Lafayette and reflects current market realities rather than an artificially inflated cost.
Developers tend to begin with smaller lots and more accessible housing options initially, aiming to attract buyers and build momentum. Larger homes with bigger lots will likely come later in the project as the community grows.
When Will Construction Begin?
No official timeline has been announced yet for when construction will start, but signs point toward progress in the near future. Grading and road work have already begun in nearby areas, and preliminary archaeological studies are underway.
Given the project’s size—a multi-year build-out of thousands of homes—expect gradual development. Model homes could be ready as soon as late 2026 or 2027, but site preparation like roads and utilities will come first. Developers are motivated to move swiftly once construction begins since their investment depends on selling homes.
The Approval Process and Public Involvement
While unanimous approval by the Area Plan Commission might sound like a simple rubber stamp, the reality is the process is rigorous. Developers work closely with planning staff well before commission meetings to ensure proposals meet all requirements.
The commission itself is made up of elected officials representing the county and area municipalities, providing direct accountability to the public. This multi-step review helps balance growth with community interests.
Why This Matters
Tippecanoe County needs more housing to keep up with growth pressures, and Milbrook represents a significant step toward meeting that demand. Its careful planning, zoning mix, and upcoming construction will shape the future of West Lafayette’s northern neighborhoods for years to come.
Stay Tuned
Milbrook’s approval marks the beginning of a transformative project for the area. Keep an eye out for updates as this development moves from planning to reality—and watch for the first signs of construction taking shape on our horizon.
If you care about how West Lafayette grows and evolves, stay connected to get the latest news on Milbrook and other developments shaping our community.