Storage Express, which operates 91 self-storage properties in five states, intends to develop a new facility in Hancock County, Ind., before its target site is annexed by the town of Cumberland. The 400-unit facility would be built on 4.7 acres at 6722 U.S. Highway 40, which is part of a proposed 286-acre annexation. Cumberland officials have asked the county to reject the self-storage project, according to the source.

June 1, 2016

2 Min Read
Storage Express Gets Push-Back on Self-Storage Proposal Near Cumberland, IN

Storage Express, which operates 91 self-storage properties in five states, intends to develop a new facility in Hancock County, Ind., before its target site is annexed by the town of Cumberland. The 400-unit facility would be built on 4.7 acres at 6722 U.S. Highway 40, which is part of a proposed 286-acre annexation. Cumberland officials have asked the county to reject the self-storage project, according to the source.

Cumberland council member Anna Pea asked the county planning commission to deny the project during a meeting last month. Although the town’s annexation request is pending and won’t be heard for weeks, officials intend to impose stricter development requirements and believe the presence of self-storage would deter other corporate and retail projects once the land changes hands, the source reported. The annexation would increase the size of Cumberland by 20 percent. Potential new development requirements could include nicer façades and increased setbacks.

“We only have one shot to get this right,” Pea told the commission. “This kind of development goes completely against all of the changes that need to come to Hancock County.”

The county has also received approximately 30 letters from residents who oppose the project. Homeowner concerns include potential increases in criminal activity and traffic. Some have argued the area has too many self-storage facilities already, according to Mike Dale, director of the county building and planning department.

Storage Express owner Jefferson Shreve told planners the company’s self-storage facilities average three visitors per hour and fit in well with other commercial developments.

The commission tabled a decision on the project until it meets again on June 28, according to the source.

Founded in 1992, Storage Express owns and operates self-storage properties in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio and Tennessee.

Sources:

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