A Chesterton (Indiana) couple has submitted their plans to build a recreational vehicle resort near U.S. 20 but needs additional time to present a complete project before the Porter Plan Commission.
Trevin Fowler, along with his wife Kimberly Fowler, has formed Third Coast Cottage LLC, the company name for their proposed RV resort. They have an option to acquire 50 acres at the southeast corner of Tremont Road and U.S. 20 in Porter.
According to a report last Wednesday, Trevin Fowler asked the Porter Plan Commission to continue the hearing on their request for a planned unit development to the site.
Over the weeks, Trevin Fowler expressed they were dealing with concerns raised by officials from the town. He added that more time is needed to draft the PUD agreement, which will determine the development of the property.
Trevin Fowler also added that more time is required to create a more precise site plan. He hopes to present the plans to the Porter Plan Commission by its February meeting.
The Porter Plan Commission granted Fowler’s request to extend the hearing in the preliminary phase on the property for up to 90 days.
Following the hearing, Porter’s Plan Commission will organize a public meeting and then take a vote over the PUD agreement, according to Michael Barry, Porter’s development director, and building commissioner.
The Plan Commission’s vote only refers to their recommendations for the Town Council, who will decide the PUD that will determine if the project will be allowed to proceed.
So far, the RV park idea has not encountered any resistance.
The Fowlers had earlier tried to build a five-acre RV park on U.S. 20 and Kemil Road; however, they were rejected by the Porter County Board of Zoning Appeals, and residents also opposed the project proposal.
“This proposal is a lot bigger and the location is better,” Kimberly Fowler said in an interview.
The initial phase of the plan calls for 83 RV parking spots. The project also includes facilities like an event center and a gift shop and restaurant. Another step would increase the number of RV parking spots.
“We’re very committed to putting in a top-tier facility to serve the ongoing demands and needs of the region,” Trevin Fowler said.
Trevin Fowler announced that Indiana Dunes Tourism endorsed their idea. There are 3.5 million people who visit Indiana Dunes National Park, and the Fowlers believe there is a clear need for a spot to accommodate recreational vehicles.
At present, the Fowlers have the option to purchase 50.53 acres, which comprises two parcels on Tremont Road and U.S. 20.
Lake Erie Land owns the property also has a barn, a house, and outbuildings that the Fowlers are hoping to integrate into their plans.
