Quality of place projects and programs are beginning to move forward across the state through the transformational Indiana Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI).
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) is on track to designate $200 million of the initiative’s grant funds to projects and programs in 10 regions by the end of July and expects to designate the remaining $300 million in all 17 regions by the end of the year, accelerating shovel-ready projects and programs that are expected to transform Indiana communities, attract talent and improve the quality of life in the short and long term.
The IEDC announced funding awards in December, allocating READI’s $500 million to 17 regions across the state that represent all of Indiana’s 92 counties.
As of Thursday, June 30, 12 of the 17 regions have finalized grant agreements with the IEDC and will begin moving forward with 53 projects and programs included in their regional development plans, including efforts to increase housing, trails, community amenities, childcare, health and wellness, tourism and workforce development.
In the Northwest Region, the Chessie Trail expansion in La Porte County is moving forward, adding 12.9 miles of 10-foot-wide non-motorized trail running along with the existing South Shore commuter rail line. It is expected to increase accessibility to and around the South Shore Station in Michigan City and help residents, visitors and commuters access the future double track project. Development of this phase is expected to begin in 2024.
