In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a significant new development project aimed at revitalizing the heart of West Lafayette. The proposed building will feature an 81-seat great hall, multiple lounges, a chapel, offices, Zoom rooms, a library, classrooms, a dining room, and a kitchen. Additionally, the upper floors will include residential accommodations with up to 34 beds.

The project, which has been in the works for over five years, received unanimous approval from the board and will now move forward to the West Lafayette City Council for further consideration on September 3. The development is designed to replace an aging shopping mall that has served the community since 1979, with plans to maintain a community-oriented focus.

The new structure will be a twelve to thirteen-story building, incorporating both market-rate apartments and student-oriented housing. It will feature separate residential lobbies and elevator cores, along with a three-level deep parking garage integrated into the hillside. The project aims to balance residential and commercial space, preserving approximately 36,000 square feet for retail and office use.

Key design elements include a terraced plaza area that will serve as a public space for events, complete with an off-street loading area to facilitate traffic flow. The development team emphasized the importance of creating ample study spaces for student residents, reflecting the needs of the community.

The project is expected to begin construction in December, with an anticipated completion timeline of approximately 32 months. Community members expressed support for the initiative, highlighting its potential to enhance the local area and provide valuable amenities.