UPDATE:
MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - "Turning down projects like this can have a chilling effect on development," warned John Acken, the executive vice president of Capstone in regards to The Lodge's Phase II proposal.
The proposal has lead to some controversy in Meridian Township, some local residents do not want to see more housing put up in their area and fear the destruction of the green spaces. "I'd like to assure you that we're here as a neighborhood to advance our best interest," stated Okemos resident Joe Pavona.
Local resident's voiced their concerns about the traffic increase, noise issues and potential decreases in property value that Phase II could bring to the neighboring homes and Indian Lake Estates.
Capstone, in an effort to compromise, offered to increase bike spaces, decrease parking spots and build more one person units to be more environmentally friendly and to curb the population density.
The heated debate lasted hours at the last Township Board meeting, culminating in the board voting to deny the mixed use planned unit development request. Those who wish to learn more about the Phase II plans are invited to attend the next township board meeting on June 19th.
ORIGINAL STORY:
MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - Will the Lodge's have 153 new apartment units in the future? Meridian Magazine has the answer