EXCERPTS FROM MUNCIEJOURNAL.COM: Muncie, IN–Central City Leadership Team, a newly formed group of community members representing the private, public and philanthropic sectors of Muncie, is launching Next Muncie, a long-term redevelopment and revitalization initiative. The team announced this strategic effort under the name “Next Muncie” to emphasize its dedication toward continually propelling the city forward.
“Next Muncie is an exciting opportunity to help accelerate and prioritize the economic development and neighborhood revitalization projects that will transform our city,” said Geoffrey S. Mearns, one of the co-chairs of the leadership team.
Next Muncie will be rooted in the central city area, supported by anchor organizations IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital and Ball State University. This central location is prime for growth with cultural destinations like Minnetrista, the Downtown Historic District and the White River Greenway.
“Our work helps Muncie become a model city in the future by focusing on connecting key areas to the city’s center and capitalizing on the good work that is being done in our community,” team member Kelly K. Shrock said.
The vision states, “Muncie will emerge as a vibrant city that attracts and retains residents and visitors by providing high-quality employment opportunities, by revitalizing neighborhoods that offer healthy lifestyle choices, and by fostering an innovative culture of entrepreneurship, education, healthcare, arts, entertainment and recreation.”
There are currently two projects already in motion as part of Next Muncie: Opportunity Zones and Ivy Tech Downtown.
