A New Era on Chauncey Hill
Change is taking shape on Chauncey Hill in West Lafayette, where the old Chauncey Hill Mall once stood. The Chauncey Annex, a proposed 15-story mixed-use tower, is steadily rising across State Street, marking one of the community’s most significant development stories in recent years. This ambitious project is being led by the same developer behind the Rambler apartments and retail complex on the Levee, further shaping the city’s evolving skyline.
Development Process and Local Debate
The Chauncey Annex has made its way through various stages of approval, facing the scrutiny of the Area Plan Commission and the West Lafayette City Council. The commission is composed of representatives from municipalities and local executives, tasked with evaluating new developments for the area. Recent city council proceedings have drawn attention and concern, particularly after two council members, who are also advisory members of the commission, expressed reservations and voted “no” on the project. This action signaled a possible shift in support, prompting the developer to request a month-long pause and pull the approval from the agenda.
Affordable Units and Market Realities
With the application on hold, the proposal is being revised to include 22 affordable units, roughly 7-8% of the planned 290 apartments. These indexed-rent studios are expected to be priced at $1,268 a month, noticeably lower than similar units in the village area, which can reach upwards of $2,068. Despite the sticker shock, these rates reflect the current supply and demand in the West Lafayette market. The story here isn’t just about new construction—it’s about an undersupplied market where every available bed, whether in single-family homes or multifamily apartments, remains in high demand.
Zoning, Height, and Community Concerns
Some of the controversy centers around the height of the development and its fit with the neighborhood’s character. While there are comparable high-rise projects directly across State Street, some community members question whether such scale is appropriate for Chauncey Hill. Thanks to complex approval and zoning regulations, any change in the building’s height would require the developer to restart the entire process, reflecting the strict procedures in place for West Lafayette and Indiana as a whole.
What’s Next for Chauncey Annex?
As the Chauncey Annex awaits its next city council vote, expected at the beginning of December, the future of this landmark development remains to be seen. The council is known for its historically pro-development stance, but the outcome is no longer a guaranteed slam dunk. City leaders must balance the needs of residents, market realities, and zoning laws with their own opinions and community input.
For those following West Lafayette’s growth and changing real estate landscape, the Chauncey Annex saga offers a close-up look at how local decisions shape the future of housing, affordability, and neighborhood character. Stay tuned for further updates as the city continues to evolve.
Add to follow-up