North Vernon residents raise infrastructure, safety concerns over Highway 3 development

NORTH VERNON, Ind. — At Wednesday's October 14 North Vernon City Council meeting, nearby homeowners expressed uneasiness about traffic, drainage, and pedestrian safety on the proposed 46-unit multifamily housing development on Highway 3 near West County Road 300N.

Residents whose properties adjoin the parcel conveyed concerns about three-story structures, potential disruptions to surrounding wetlands, and increased vehicle traffic near nearby daycare and industrial facilities. Questions were also asked about the lack of sidewalks along State Highway 3 to accommodate pedestrians walking to city parks or schools.

In response to infrastructure complaints about deteriorating pavement on West County Road 300N, Mayor Shawn Gerkin directed city officials to place the road on the list for future Community Crossings Matching Grant (CCMG) applications.

City leadership emphasized that future site plan reviews will require strict engineering oversight regarding stormwater management and traffic access. Upcoming Council meetings will provide updates on local road improvements.