City of Gary officials are developing a comprehensive plan for three distinct neighborhoods and are seeking the input of residents, business owners, community organizations and other vested stakeholders. The targeted areas include Downtown (Toll Road to 9th Avenue, Delaware to Madison Streets); Emerson (Toll Road to 9th Avenue, Broadway to I-65); and Horace Mann (Toll Road to 9th Avenue, Monroe to Chase Streets).
Those who live, work or have interest in these areas are invited to attend an information gathering session that will subsequently contribute to the “Livable Center Plan 2025.” This session will take place Monday, April 13, 2015 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Genesis Convention Center located at 5th Avenue and Broadway.
Gary Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson expressed her excitement over the progress of the plan, which is a part of the Gary Northside Redevelopment Project.
“This plan is another example of how we are focused on Gary’s revitalization, one neighborhood at a time,” said Freeman-Wilson. “We can’t do this alone so we need those who are genuinely concerned about Gary’s progress to provide their feedback and suggestions for the development of these areas.”
The Arsh Group Inc., led by Principal Planner Taghi Arshami, is the planning consulting firm that the City has partnered with to lead the efforts.
The Plan will focus on neighborhood revitalization, pedestrian linkages and transportation facilities. Preservation of historic and other resources which enhance viability of the three neighborhoods will also be assessed. In addition, the Plan will establish goals to expand green space, improve the quality of life, and complete street principles for the City.
The city’s Director of Community Development Arlene Colvin emphasized the critical need for citizen participation.
“Residents, business owners, organizations located in the Horace Mann, Downtown, and Emerson area are strongly encouraged to attend the session to provide input and assist in developing a vision for the plan,” said Colvin. “It is our hope is that the plan will bring constituents together to build community consensus around re-imagined neighborhoods.”
For more information about the upcoming planning session, call (219) 881-5075.