Residents sound off on Union Square at Grand Junction proposal

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Old Town Companies presented on its Union Square at Grand Junction proposal during the Sept. 3 Westfield Advisory Plan Commission meeting. No vote was taken, but a public hearing was held. Residents spoke for and against the mixed-use development.

Union Square is a proposed on approximately 4 acres at the southwest quadrant of Union Street and Ind. 32. The project is expected to include office, retail, restaurants and a multi-family component. Old Town Companies CEO Justin Moffett gave a presentation and said the multi-family component is expected to be apartments, but that condominiums might be considered.

“Ultimately, we believe we needed a catalyst event such as Grand Junction Park and Plaza to move this project forward,” Moffett said. “We are here to talk about the (planned unit development) ordinance, which is the first step in a multi-step process.”

Moffett said if the project moves forward, he expects multi-family tenants to predominantly be 55 and older.

Residents spoke in favor and against the project.

Marlene Pedigo, a pastor at Eagle Creek Friends Church, said she wants the APC to consider the project’s proximity to the Westfield Washington Schools campus before voting.

“I am concerned about the dense apartment buildings being close to the school campuses,” she said. “Who are the residents who might be close to the campuses? I would like to see family friendly business or low-density housing like that’s currently there, just because of the interest of the children.”

Marla Ailor referenced a petition, with several hundred signatures, stating the city is rushing approval.
“Mr. Moffett’s goals include authenticity for this community, and I believe him, but I also believe the 276 people that signed a petition believing there’s a rush to gain approval for this PUD,” she said.

Mic Mead said the project is exactly what the Grand Junction Task Group wanted when it envisioned Westfield’s downtown.

“The proposal in front of you is right in line with what was called for while saving historic buildings,” he said. “I submit no developer/builder could establish a downtown like Old Town.”

Ronald Moore also spoke in favor of the project.

“We look down the road 20 years, and when (grandkids) get out of school and graduate, where do I want them to live? I want them to live right here in Westfield,” Moore said. “I want Westfield to be able to provide the kind of opportunities for them to have this PUD, and this project is headed in that direction.”

APC member Scott Willis voiced concerns about density, and APC member Chris Woodard asked Moffett how many people he expected to live in the apartments. Moffett said he estimates 1.5 people per unit, equaling between 220 or 270 people.

APC member Steve Hoover said he has participated in the Grand Junction Task Group for 12 years and the proposal is exactly what was envisioned.

For more on the Union Square at Grand Junction project, visit youarecurrent.com.


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