What is 'New Urbanism'? That's the catch phrase to describe the new Saxony Community being developed in the Fishers/Noblesville area by Republic Development Corporation. Located on Interstate 69 at Exit 10, Saxony is a community that will contain a place to live, play, shop and work all within walking distance.

Sean McKinnis, Manager of Construction Services for the company's Commercial Division, is responsible for the overall coordination of the Saxony effort. Sean believes that planning has been a key element of the project, a sentiment that has been echoed by Richard A. Arnos, Republic Development's President. Extensive market research and analysis were done to determine the correct location for such a community within the Indianapolis area. In addition, approximately three (3) years of planning (working with municipalities, zoning commissions, etc.) were necessary before 'breaking ground'. Planning continues to be an ongoing process to ensure strategic location and building design as new tenants are announced.

The project will potentially be comprised of twelve (12) infrastructure phases (commercial and residential development). There are approximately 98 development sites on the commercial development side alone. The following are located in or being developed in Saxony:

• Wesleyan Church World Headquarters
• Community Health Pavilion (25 acre medical campus)
• Saxony Village - a planned retail development
• Helmer Labs World Headquarters
• Star Financial Bank Branch
• Clarian Health Partners
• Several phases of single family residential projects (350 homes are either up or under construction)
• Two town home communities under construction (approximately 100+ units)

All development work on the project is sub-contracted. When a project involves multiple sub-contractors and various municipalities, one of the greatest challenges can be effective communication. Deriving 'lessons learned' from previous projects he has managed, Sean emphasizes that communication with all parties involved in the project is critical. Each party must understand what is required of them. As a result, Sean conducts regular project meetings with the various parties involved (sub-contractors, municipalities, inspectors, etc.). Meeting results, along with action items, are documented and distributed. Sean indicated that email can be an excellent tool to assist with follow-up items, but it is critical to have an established relationship with someone before relying too heavily on email.

Sean provides on-site supervision and is heavily involved in designs. When asked to identify the most satisfying part of being involved in this project, Sean answers with a stream of phrases such as 'blazing new paths', 'breaking new ground', etc.. His enthusiasm for the project is obvious and both he and President Richard Arnos use the phrase 'special place' when describing the Saxony Community.