Neighbors Oppose 700-Home Development Near Fort Wayne Airport

Residents voice concerns over zoning change request for rural area

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Residents in southwest Allen County, Indiana have gathered to voice their opposition to a proposed housing development that would bring 689 homes to a rural area near the Fort Wayne International Airport. The developer, Coverdale Development, LLC, has filed an application to change the zoning of approximately 170 acres from agricultural to residential, which would allow for multi-family buildings like apartments and townhomes. Neighbors argue the land is unsuitable for dense development due to its proximity to the airport.

Why it matters

The proposed development highlights ongoing tensions between residential growth and preserving rural character in areas surrounding major airports. Residents are concerned the high-density project could conflict with airport operations and pose safety risks, while the developer argues it aligns with the county's growth plans.

The details

The proposed "Communities of Calusa" development would be located on land bound by Ferguson Road, Coverdale Road, and private property off Winters Road. Residents argue the site lies within an airport overlay district where dense populations are discouraged. The developer acknowledges there are no similar developments nearby, but says the project is comparable to others within a 3-5 mile radius. Neighbors have organized to voice their opposition, with one stating "This is an agricultural area. We all farm together. We all live together. We all get along together. And we're not going to put up with it."

  • The Allen County Board of Zoning Appeals received the zoning change application from Coverdale Development, LLC.
  • A public hearing on the proposal will be held by the Allen County Plan Commission on March 12, 2026 at 1:30pm.

The players

Coverdale Development, LLC

The developer that has filed an application to change the zoning of approximately 170 acres near the Fort Wayne International Airport in order to build a 689-home residential community.

Rachel McCulloch

One of the organizers of the neighborhood meeting opposing the proposed development, who argues the land is unsuitable due to its proximity to the airport.

Troy Bickley

Another organizer of the neighborhood meeting, who stated "This is an agricultural area. We all farm together. We all live together. We all get along together. And we're not going to put up with it."

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This lies in an airport overlay district. And there have been multiple proposed editions that have been shot down because they don't want dense populations in this area because it's so close to the airport.”

— Rachel McCulloch, Neighborhood Meeting Organizer (wane.com)

“We're not happy. This is an agricultural area. We all farm together. We all live together. We all get along together. And we're not going to put up with it.”

— Troy Bickley, Neighborhood Meeting Organizer (wane.com)

What’s next

A public hearing on the proposed zoning change will be held by the Allen County Plan Commission on March 12, 2026 at 1:30pm.

The takeaway

This development proposal highlights the ongoing tensions between residential growth and preserving rural character in areas surrounding major airports. Neighbors are concerned the high-density project could conflict with airport operations, while the developer argues it aligns with the county's growth plans, underscoring the need to balance community interests and development priorities.