Crown Point could add as many as 181 single family homes within the proposed Hidden Lakes development.
First, the city will need to annex 113 acres of land in unincorporated Lake County. The Crown Point City Council took a step in that direction on Nov. 7 when it unanimously approved annexation of the land on first reading. The council’s approval of the annexation for a second reading (final) vote is set for its December meeting.
Once the annexation is complete, the city’s Plan Commission will begin reviewing plans for the development and make its recommendation, favorable or unfavorable, to the City Council.
Crown Point Planning Administrator Grace Roman said the proposed development is located in the vicinity of 12600 Cedar Lake Road, west of the Feather Rock and Hermit Lake subdivisions. She added that 90 of the 113 acres is buildable land, owned by the White family’s Lake County land trust.
In paving the way for the development, the City Council approved resolutions on first reading extending sewer and water service to the area.
Roman said the home prices will range in price from $375,000 to $750,000 and likely feature two different hope styles. She expects the development, if approved, to be built over a four- to six-year period.
Roman doubted, with all the planning and approvals that still need to take place, that the project would break ground in 2023. Also, citizens will have opportunities to voice their opinion on the proposed development. The City Council heard several questions from residents concerned about traffic, flooding and adding to the local schools’ population.
Roman believes the development is right for the city.
“The city is on board with expanding residential infrastructure,'” she said. “Our comprehensive plan calls for this type of development in the area.”
Jim Masters is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
