The number of available housing opportunities in the city of Bellefontaine is climbing at a rate not seen in decades, Bellefontaine City Council members were told Tuesday, July 25, in a regular meeting that also included the swearing in of a new full-time firefighter.
Housing projects ranging from apartments, to condominiums to residential homes are in various stages of development, Mayor Ben Stahler told council during a housing update.
Upon taking office in 2014, new-home builds annually averaged around five or six per year, he said, adding that new apartments and condos had not been constructed in over 15 years; and that construction was all undertaken by local developers. For the first time in decades, out-of-town developers are investing in housing projects in the city of Bellefontaine.
Some of the key housing projects contributing to this positive development include:
Campbell Landing Apartments: Completed in 2021, these 52 units offer much-needed rental options for the city’s residents;
Eagles Nest Condos: This development consists of 34 units and was completed in 2022, providing modern condominium living to interested buyers;
Christina Drive Apartments (Stone Key Corp.): The construction of 56 one-bedroom apartments is currently underway, representing another significant addition to Bellefontaine’s rental market;
Maris Park: With approximately 200 homes planned, Phase #1 has already sold out with 14 lots. Phase #2, comprising 14 homes, is in its initial stages;
Pine Brook Estates: This project features 14 lots, with 11 already sold, one pending and two still available for interested buyers. Eight units are on track to be completed by the end of the year;
Willows End Condos (Allen Woods): The construction of 16 homes is already complete, with plans for up to 30 homes to be built, providing an attractive option for potential condo owners;
Ludlow Ridge: The preliminary plat for this project has been approved by the planning commission in June 2023. It includes 322 residences, with 87 single homes, 97 patio homes, and 138 townhomes;
Tod Johnson Project (near Lake Edition): This project, with plans for 60 to 80 condos, has received approval at the City Planning Commission for annexation as R-3C, meaning that only condos may be built there; and
Sloan Boulevard: Several meetings have been held to discuss a plan development for residential and high-end apartment rentals.
These projects together indicate a strong and vibrant real estate market, addressing the housing demand in Bellefontaine. The surge in development not only benefits the local economy and job market but also ensures that residents have access to a diverse range of housing options.
The city’s roster of firefighters is again full following the swearing in of Tyler Overman, 22, of Troy, during the meeting. He starts Aug. 1.
The city maintains its highest level of first responder staffing in history, currently featuring 23 full-time firefighters (seven per shift, along with a chief and a captain).
Finally, council was reminded the Bellefontaine Police Department is hosting the annual Community Safety Event on Saturday, Aug. 19, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Southview Park. The event is free and includes K9 Teams, public safety vehicles, aviation, motorcycle and mounted units, music, games and more.
The K9 Chicken Fundraiser will also be on site from 3 to 5 p.m., with presale tickets available at the police department for $15 per person.
The next regular meeting is 7:30 p.m., Aug. 8.
