Portage City Council Reviews Simon CRE's 84-Acre Zoning Change Proposal

Portage City Council has taken a significant step towards economic development by approving a zoning change for a key property located at the intersection of US Highway 6 and County Road 500 West. During the meeting on May 6, 2025, the council voted to rezone approximately 84 acres from residential (R1) to commercial (C2) and medium-density multifamily (M2) classifications, paving the way for a major commercial development and potential residential projects.

The northern 40 acres of the site will be designated for C2 zoning, allowing for a large-scale commercial development estimated at around 330,000 square feet. The southern 40 acres will be rezoned to M2, which will accommodate medium-density multifamily housing. The proposal received a favorable recommendation from the city’s plan commission, with no public objections raised during the hearings.

Dave Westland, representing SimonCRE, the developer behind the project, highlighted the company’s extensive experience in commercial real estate, having completed nearly 300 projects across 23 states. He emphasized that the development aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan, which aims to enhance commercial opportunities while providing quality housing options.

The council's decision is expected to attract significant investment, estimated at up to $100 million, which includes both commercial and residential components. While specific details about the residential developer are still pending, discussions are ongoing with several potential partners familiar with the Portage area.

This zoning change marks a crucial advancement for Portage, as it seeks to balance growth with community needs. The council's commitment to ensuring high-quality development standards will be essential as the project moves forward. The next steps will involve further site plan reviews and collaboration with developers to ensure the new projects meet the city’s vision for sustainable and integrated community development.