Commission Approved Design for Union at Astor
The Metropolitan Development Commission cleared the path for a new 242-unit apartment complex in Indianapolis.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in City Hall
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The Metropolitan Development Commission hearing examiner has approved design changes for the proposed Union at Astor apartment complex in the Stringtown neighborhood. The project, led by The Annex Group, will feature 242 residential units along the west side of the White River.
Why it matters
The developer contends the project provides a necessary affordable housing solution for the city while incorporating a design that integrates more effectively into the existing local environment. The proposal addresses long-standing housing needs in Indianapolis despite previous resistance from area neighbors regarding the site's development.
The proposed site for the 242-unit complex encompasses a block of homes that are 150 years old. Officials anticipate the development will introduce more than 250 additional vehicles to the local street infrastructure.
The players
The Annex Group
This is a real estate development firm focused on creating multifamily housing projects.
Metropolitan Development Commission
This local government body is responsible for land use and zoning oversight in Indianapolis.
The details
The revised plans for the Stringtown project now include gabled roofs, additional sidewalks, trees, a playground, and a dog park. These modifications were submitted following earlier neighborhood opposition and failed zoning variance requests.
Timeline
The developer submitted the previous iteration of the project 30 days ago.
The Metropolitan Development Commission will hold its final approval meeting on October 21, 2026.
Political Context
Opponents have voiced concerns regarding the density of the project and its impact on the historic character of the neighborhood. These groups argue that the scale of the new construction conflicts with established local building patterns and infrastructure capacity.
Residents in Stringtown should anticipate construction activity and increased traffic volume once the project proceeds. The addition of 242 units could also shift the local demographic density and demand for nearby public services.
The takeaway
The approval of the revised design highlights the ongoing tension between historic neighborhood preservation and the demand for new housing capacity in urban centers. Residents may want to attend the final commission meeting to ensure their concerns regarding infrastructure are documented on the public record.
What happens next
The Metropolitan Development Commission is scheduled to hold a final approval meeting for the proposal on October 21, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on local development and land use policy, visit the City Hall section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fox 59.
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