SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- A new outdoor social space is coming to South Bend's Northeast side.

The South Bend Redevelopment Commission voted unanimously to approve "The Yard" on Thursday night. The mixed-use development is designed to be a "third space" for people to gather, combining community, entertainment, and recreation.

The Yard will be located on East LaSalle Avenue along Hill Street and Niles Avenue. The location was chosen specifically to boost the economy on South Bend's Northeast side, hoping to attract visitors to the urban development.

The Yard will hold food vendors and a wide range of amenities. A pavilion, event lawn and bandshell will help bring more live performances to the city. Residents and visitors will be able to enjoy a playground, shaded seating area, putting green, and Bocce courts, with a space even reserved for pets.

The South Bend Redevelopment Commission approved a development agreement for the project, which has a $14 million price tag. $3 million will be paid by the City of South Bend while $11 million comes from private investment. That money will be paid back within 17 years.

The Yard does not have a scheduled timeline for construction, but the agreement says it must be completed by Dec. 31, 2029.