The Merrillville Plan Commission approved the first step in subdividing a parcel of the former Y & W Drive-In property eyed by the town for a recreation center.

Schererville developer Jeff Brant, representing property owner Triex Construction, said March 20 the 2.3-acre parcel fronting Broadway needed to be subdivided in order to be sold.

There is an interested buyer, he said, declining to provide a name or what may be built on the property.

Earlier this month, Brant said a one-story office was proposed for the parcel at 6600 Broadway, just south of the mini-warehouses.

Brant also provided a power of attorney, as requested by Town Attorney Joseph Svetanoff.

Councilman Shawn Pettit, D-6th, said there are 135 possible uses for the property under town ordinance.

The parcel is part of 20 acres where the town wants to build a recreation center.

“The town is still interested in purchasing the property,” said Councilwoman Roxanne LaMarca, D-7th, who sits on both the plan commission and the recreation center planning committee.

She said the town is still looking at appraisals for the property and the price tag for the remaining acreage.

Council President Richard Hardaway, D-2nd, said he thought there was a meeting scheduled between town negotiators — Svetanoff and Town Manager Bruce Spires — and the overall property owners, Tech Federal Credit Union and Ron Rex, this week to discuss options.

Conceptual drawings showed the center could include a multipurpose field, splash pad and playground area in addition to a recreation center building.

The commission also approved final subdivision plans for the second phase of Hunters Glen North duplexes on Merrillville Road by a 6-1 vote.

Karen Caffarini is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.