Partnering for Regional Success
The East Central Indiana region, encompassing Blackford, Delaware, Fayette, Grant, Henry, Jay, Randolph, and Wayne counties, has received $35 million in funding from Indiana's Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI), the second highest allotment in round two.
The allocation represents a remarkable $20 million (133%) increase in support for regional economic development initiatives compared to the first round. Funding from READI promises to fuel transformative growth and opportunity across communities in the region.
Trevor Friedeberg, President & CEO of the East Central Indiana Regional Partnership, expressed appreciation stating, "I am incredibly proud of the work that was put in across the region to make this award a reality. I speak for nearly 400,000 residents of ECI in thanking Governor Holcomb, Secretary Rosenburg, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), and everyone who coordinated, collaborated, and came together to make this possible. With this award we will accelerate growth in our region that will have an impact for years to come. I have said it throughout this process: East Central Indiana is primed for growth and this is our time!”
Launched by Governor Holcomb and spearheaded by the IEDC, READI encourages regional collaboration and data-informed, long-term planning to attract and retain talent in Indiana. In READI 1.0, ECI received $15 million for 19 impactful projects across various sectors including broadband, childcare, infrastructure, arts and culture, recreation, and talent attraction with $5 million disbursed to date.
For READI 2.0, the IEDC has focused on several KPI’s (Key Performance Indicators), such as population growth, per capita income growth, growth in employment opportunities, education attainment, housing unites developed, childcare capacity, innovation activities and private investment. The Partnership has outlined strategic investment priorities in their regional development plan, targeting improvements in quality of life, addressing housing and infrastructure needs, supporting childcare and families, and promoting education and opportunity. Drawing insights from regional workshops and survey input from over 3,000 community members, the regional development plan aims to propel transformative change, aligning with the KPI’s identified by the IEDC.
The regional development plan is projected to have the following outcomes by 2031:
Stabilize the population attracting 1,500 people across the region each year.
Increase educational attainment enabling 1,300 people to obtain a bachelor’s degree or higher each year.
Promote housing development building approximately 7,200 housing units (including 3,000 units with READI support).
Support livelihoods boosting the regional per capita personal income by $22,043 (representing a 47% increase).
Foster innovation encouraging the filing of 100 additional business applications each year.
The regional development plan and READI funding empower the three elements that serve as the backbone of East Central Indiana’s vision: a mosaic of communities, innovative education and medical institutions, and amenities that enable residents to thrive. Through regional collaboration, ECI is forging a bright path for residents.
Media provided by Caitlin Hancock, Vice President of Strategy & Operations of East Central Indiana Regional Partnership
READI PROJECTS IN GRANT COUNTY
Gas City Performing Arts Center
THE NEED
The arts have faced numerous challenges over the years, from cuts in government funding to dwindling grant opportunities. This trend has impacted everything from school arts programs to regional arts organizations. For instance, the Indiana Arts Commission, responsible for distributing arts funding statewide, experienced a 15% funding allocation holdback during the 2021 fiscal year. Such reductions underscore the need for alternative funding avenues, such as the READI grant, to ensure the vitality of arts and culture.
Engaging children in the arts from a young age is crucial. It not only nurtures their creativity but also builds the foundational skills needed for a future in the arts. Primary education institutions play a pivotal role in this, as they offer classes and programs that spark early interest and skill development. This foundation is critical for sustaining a vibrant arts community.
Photo by the Gas City Performing Arts Center
THE VISION
This project is a collaborative effort between the City of Gas City, Grant County, the Mississinewa Community School Corporation, and the Grant County Convention & Visitors Bureau. The Gas City Performing Arts Center is set to become a regional entertainment venue, serving not only Grant County but several counties across East Central Indiana and beyond. The facility will also be an excellent venue for large corporate and civic meetings, managed and maintained by the Mississinewa Community Schools.
The $20 million, 1,830-seat venue will kick off with a soft opening concert on October 4th featuring The Classic Rock Experience, showcasing hits from iconic bands like Led Zeppelin, Queen, and Pink Floyd. The venue, initially named the Gas City Music Center, broke ground in June 2023 and has been partially funded with $2.75 million from the Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) funds.
Ridley Tower | Downtown Marion
THE NEED
Increasing the number of residents in a downtown has several benefits. First, more rooftops mean more people in a downtown. The increase in foot traction can have a positive impact on businesses. Locals are likely eating and running their errands where it is quick and convenient. Secondly, more people in a downtown means more eyes on the street. In urban design, this concept refers to increased safety because of the number of people present within the area. Lastly, residential land use in a downtown will likely increase the overall property values and help generate additional tax revenue.
Photo of Ridley Tower by Glen Devitt, of Marion, Indiana
THE VISION
The Ridley Tower project is breathing new life into the former Marion National Bank building right here in Marion, Indiana. Bringing 29 modern market-rate apartments to our city, the first of its kind in a whopping 35 years! Alongside these chic living spaces, you'll find a hub of downtown activity with dining, retail, and office spaces.
Visit Obi'S Barbeque, F.C. Tucker Realty Center, Allstate with Kyle Taylor, Ashley's Ice Cream & Coffee, and Halstead Architects. And hey, if you're in need of a meeting spot or a place to gather with your group, look no further than the Plato/Guy Community Room.