South Bend, Indiana, [September 25, 2024] – The South Bend-Elkhart region has submitted four critical blight revitalization projects to the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) as part of the Lilly Endowment funding opportunity through the state’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI). These projects, located in key areas of Mishawaka, South Bend, and Elkhart, represent a transformative effort to turn blighted properties into thriving community assets, stimulating economic growth and improving quality of life.

The READI program, which encourages regional collaboration to accelerate investments in quality of place, innovation, entrepreneurship, and talent retention, offers a unique opportunity for the South Bend-Elkhart region to revitalize underutilized spaces. The projects proposed for funding are a testament to the region’s commitment to turning challenges into opportunities for economic and community revitalization.

“We are excited to submit these transformative projects to the IEDC for consideration,” said Bethany Hartley, President and CEO of the South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership. “Each of these initiatives will not only remove blight but also contribute to our region’s long-term prosperity by creating spaces that attract businesses, residents, and visitors.”

The Four Projects Submitted:
1. 100 Center (Mishawaka):
The “100 Center” is Mishawaka’s historic brewing and entertainment district that has served the region for over 170 years. Once a thriving commercial center, the 100 Center in Mishawaka has faced decades of decline and significant disrepair. The redevelopment of this historic site aims to restore its former vibrancy by converting the space into a mixed-use development featuring residential units, dining and music options, and commercial spaces. The project will celebrate the 100 Center’s industrial history while providing a modern space for local businesses and housing, fostering a sense of community and economic vitality on the St. Joseph riverfront.

2. Drewrys Brewery Site (South Bend):
A massive 18-acre brownfield site in the heart of South Bend, the Drewrys Brewery site has long been a challenging redevelopment project due to its industrial heritage. The site will be redeveloped into a 150-unit housing development featuring a mix of energy-efficient rental and for-sale homes at affordable and market-rate prices, along with community amenities and activation of an adjacent, but underutilized, park. Redevelopment of the site will transform an eyesore into a vibrant neighborhood less than 30-minute drive from the GM/Samsung plant and Amazon hub .

3. Benham Neighborhood (Elkhart):
The Benham neighborhood in Elkhart has suffered from decades of disinvestment, with many homes and properties falling into disrepair. This project focuses on revitalizing the area by building all types of new affordable housing stock, revitalizing aging commercial hubs, and thoughtfully enhancing public spaces. The goal is to create a more livable, walkable, connected community that attracts new residents and supports long-term economic growth. Improved infrastructure and green spaces will be central to the neighborhood’s transformation, building on the neighborhood’s heritage as a socially vibrant community.

4. River Glen (South Bend):
River Glen, located along the St. Joseph River in South Bend, is a severely underutilized and primarily vacant office park despite its prime location. This project will redevelop the functionally obsolete buildings into a transformative riverfront mixed use district that includes rental and for-sale housing, recreational areas, and potential opportunities for new retail and restaurant activation. The planned public improvements will allow residents to fully experience one of the most picturesque and enjoyable sections of the St. Joseph River via a river trail system that seamlessly connects to Howard Park, downtown, and other nearby amenities.

By capitalizing on its scenic location, the River Glen project aims to create a destination that draws both residents and tourists, providing opportunities for outdoor activities, dining, and entertainment. This redevelopment will serve as a model for sustainable growth and riverfront activation.

A Regional Vision for Growth
The proposed blight remediation projects reflect the South Bend-Elkhart region’s collective vision for a future that is proud, connected, and equipped. By leveraging Lilly Endowment and READI funding, the region aims to catalyze new economic opportunities while preserving its rich heritage and enhancing community connections.

“The support from READI and Lilly Endowment is essential to addressing these longstanding challenges,” said Hartley. “These projects not only remove blight but also pave the way for innovation, community-building, and sustainable growth.”

About the South Bend-Elkhart Regional Partnership
The South Bend-Elkhart Regional Partnership is a collaboration of local economic development organizations, businesses, and community leaders committed to fostering a thriving and innovative economy in the South Bend-Elkhart region, focusing on making the South Bend-Elkhart region the most prosperous in the Midwest. Through initiatives like READI, the partnership aims to accelerate the region’s growth and create a better future for its residents.