SOUTH BEND – The city is proposing commercial and residential development on Western Avenue to make Coveleski Stadium more accessible to downtown.

Walking is a common sight in downtown South Bend during the lunch hour.

But two blocks away on Western Avenue, there are fewer people and more vacant buildings with strong ties to the past.

"The area here has a strong automotive history - this Lafayette and Western corner," said Bill Schalliol, economic development planner with the city of South Bend.

Smack-dab right in the middle of the vacant properties is Coveleski Stadium. For city officials like Schalliol, the parking lots and empty storefronts are not eyesores, they are opportunities.

"Absolutely, absolutely, vacant land is the future," said Schalliol.

It is one reason South Bend officials purchased land and buildings such as a radiator service shop and an auto glass business. They also highlighted their plans to connect the Cove to the City Center.

"Downtown is our common neighborhood," said Mayor Steve Luecke. "It really is the front porch for South Bend and a great community gathering space."

Officials want to make the Cove an anchor for this section of downtown. A plan is in the works of creating a new entrance to the Cove. Officials believe the area closest to the outfields and the scoreboard has the greatest potential.

"We really see an opportunity," said Luecke.

They also see development increasing. In place of buildings with strong automotive ties, Schalliol sees new homes and businesses. All of it comes with a cost.

"The whole project by the time you talk about land acquisition and land development could be a large ticket number," said Schalliol.

Estimates see the number soaring close to 40 million dollars, according to sources. TIF funds are one idea to help with costs. Money from taxes already paid on new development could be used for newer projects like Cove improvements.

On Friday, the Redevelopment Commission will see the plans. City Council members will see the plans Monday. Afterward, the approval process would begin.

If everything goes according to their plans, it could take a year for the projects to begin. One strike against the economic development effort is the downturn, which means private developers and their contributions may not be so easy to come by.

"We don't do anything until we have the dollars," said Luecke.