Transit Development Districts (TDDs) are designed to stimulate economic growth and community development. In Northwest Indiana (NWI), the NWI Regional Development Authority (RDA) has been instrumental in supporting TDDs focused on creating high-density, transit-oriented developments, and leveraging improved rail service to attract new businesses, residents, and opportunities.
Each TDD reflects its community’s unique vision, and Michigan City’s TDD is poised to be a model for transformative development.
“In broad terms, all the TDDs are intended to promote residential and commercial development,” said David Wellman, director of communications for the Northwest Indiana RDA.
At the heart of Michigan City’s TDD is the redevelopment of the 11th Street Station, part of the South Shore Line’s Double Track project.
“This development project in Michigan City will be a real engine for population growth and economic development,” said Wellman.
This initiative shortens travel times to Chicago, making Michigan City an attractive option for commuters and visitors alike. The TDD stretches from the station through downtown to the lakeshore, a design that captures the city’s strengths, including its vibrant downtown, lakefront, and proximity to the Indiana Dunes National Park.
Unlike TDDs in Lake and Porter Counties, where revenue flows to the RDA, Michigan City’s redevelopment commission directly oversees funds generated by the TDD.
“It will be up to that body to determine how they want to use those funds and what kinds of incentives they want to make available,” Wellman said.
This level of oversight allows for faster development and greater benefits for the people of Michigan City.
“Having a dedicated pool of money for transit-oriented development means development will happen more quickly and spur even more activity,” said Wellman. “The benefits will be felt throughout Michigan City, not just in the TDD or near the station.”
The TDD presents significant opportunities for Michigan City’s future.
“Two large properties—the Indiana State Prison property and NIPSCO’s Michigan City Generating Station—are expected to become available for development,” said Wellman. “By including them in an expanded TDD, it could create transformative opportunities.”
Michigan City’s partnership with the RDA has been key to this vision.
“We’ve worked closely with multiple administrations, and the city has been an awesome partner,” said Wellman.
The work of the NWI RDA throughout the area on the double track system has proven benefits across the area.
“Everybody understands the benefits of double track and cutting travel time to and from downtown Chicago,” said Wellman. “This work is also about increasing access to Michigan City itself, with its lakefront, shops, restaurants, and more.”
By aligning its transit and development goals, Michigan City is leveraging its TDD to drive economic growth, attract new residents, and enhance quality of life.
With improved rail connectivity and a strong focus on transit-oriented development, Michigan City is positioned to become a vibrant, thriving community and a hub for regional growth.
To learn more about the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority, please visit in.gov/rda.