Overview

Turn to the River is implementing a comprehensive community-supported revitalization of an important and historical downtown area with a focus area that includes the four-square block central City/County government campus and a city-owned property adjacent to the Wabash River. It is accomplished in well-planned phases as critical partnerships and funding are achieved. The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the progress of this project and hindered the organization’s ability to fundraise. Art Spaces completed implementation of Phase I in 2023. READI funds will support Design Development of Phase II and Phase III, as they begin in January 2023 and are expected to be completed in December 2024. Art Spaces will be partnering with Vigo County Capital Improvement Board (CIB) to support this project. The Phase II project scope includes the area within the City Parking lot, and a property between City Hall and Ohio Street. The goal is for both areas to become part of a designed walking promenade between downtown and the river, as well as to serve as a public festival space, with infrastructure to support farmer’s markets, food trucks, a diverse array of festivals and everyday public use. Both areas will incorporate new walkways, landscaping, seating and lighting with areas for people to meet, or to simply enjoy green surroundings. Design Development of Phase III will accomplish the 3rd Street entrance and visual and pedestrian connection between downtown and the river.