The City of South Bend has begun a multi-faceted effort to support the construction of new residential housing units within the city. South Bend’s goal is to support a thriving housing market that offers appealing neighborhoods with diverse housing choices, including available affordable housing inventory. The City wishes to ensure well-designed, infill housing on vacant land in the City’s neighborhoods which will increase the marketability of those neighborhoods. Learn more about the programs to spur new housing development below.
South Bend Infill Development Request for Proposals
This Request for Proposals, issued on Nov. 14, 2022, seeks proposals to develop new infill housing in South Bend. Available funding may be awarded to one or more successful proposals to address market challenges that may otherwise prohibit development in urban neighborhoods.
View the full RFP and learn how to submit a proposal here.
Scattered Site Property RFP
In coordination with the Infill Development RFP, the South Bend Redevelopment Commission has issued a series of Requests for Proposals for 7 properties in South Bend that are zoned for residential or industrial uses.
View the full RFP and learn how to submit a proposal here.
Sewer Lateral Reimbursement Policy
Through the Sewer Lateral Reimbursement Program, the City will reimburse property owners for up to $20,000 in qualifying expenses for new sewer lateral connections. To be eligible for participation, an applicant must have plans to construct a new residential or neighborhood scaled multifamily residential structure within a qualifying zoning district.
See the full program guidelines and application here.
Pre-Approved Building Plan Sets
To support neighborhood infill and economic opportunities for locals, the City of South Bend is offering a set of pre-approved building types at no cost. This resource assists with small to middle scale housing development in South Bend neighborhoods. A “Sears Catalog” of housing options offer a range of contextually appropriate plans to individuals and developers that are interested in pursuing new construction infill projects within the City of South Bend.
These high-quality architectural plans come with contingent building and site development approval. Each plan has been vetted specifically for South Bend with careful consideration given to current zoning regulations, typical lot configurations, common construction techniques, and market conditions. In exchange for significant time and cost savings, the buildings must be built to match the building design, including all architectural details, with minor variations permitted. There is no cost associated with getting a construction set.