NEWS & EVENTS

GARY, IN September 29, 2025 – The City of Gary, Indiana, today announced a major economic development victory, securing a $15 million LEI (Lilly Endowment Inc.) Grant through the Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s (IEDC) Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) 2.0 program. This significant investment will fund the CITY OF GARY BLIGHT ELIMINATION AND REINVESTMENT project, a strategic initiative focused on enhancing downtown vitality and addressing blight in the core of the city and its adjacent neighborhoods.

The project, which was designated as a regional priority for Blight & Remediation, will focus on three key development areas: a "Going Vertical" development downtown Gary, the remodel of the iconic Hudson Campbell building, and extensive blight removal with pedestrian infrastructure improvements connecting key downtown landmarks. The overall project is expected to begin in October 2025 and conclude by December 31, 2028, with the READI portion starting in January 2026.

The total project budget is supported by substantial local and private commitments, leveraging the $15 million LEI investment with approximately $49.5 million in matching funds from private, city, federal, and other state sources. The total project investment is expected to be over $64 million.

The initiative aligns with the READI focus on Infrastructure for Jobs and the goal of Quality of Place. Outcomes are projected to include the creation of 30 new full-time jobs with an average wage of $60,000. The project is intended to increase job creation, downtown foot traffic, tax revenue, and attract additional businesses by turning vacant spaces into vibrant community assets.

Mayor Eddie Melton expressed his gratitude for the partnership and the opportunity this grant presents:

"The READI investment in the Gary Blight Elimination Initiative marks a turning point for our city. This effort tackles long-standing challenges while opening the door to new opportunities for revitalization and economic growth. It reflects our shared regional commitment to not only strengthen Gary, but to build a safer, stronger, and more vibrant Northwest Indiana. We’re grateful for this partnership and excited about the lasting impact it will bring to our community" stated Mayor Eddie Melton, City of Gary.

The project’s major components include:

• Going Vertical Development: Driving a Public-Private-Partnership (P3) or new development in downtown Gary.

• Hudson Campbell Remodel: Renovating the iconic Hudson Campbell building, designed by the acclaimed black architect Wendell Campbell, into office space to consolidate city services and drive foot traffic downtown.

• Blight Removal and Connectivity: Targeting the Holy Angels neighborhood for site acquisition and demolition of abandoned structures. This also includes improving pedestrian infrastructure and creating a new outdoor environment along 4th Place to connect the baseball stadium to the former Genesis Center.

This strategic plan targets key development gaps, enhances city placemaking, and aggressively tackles blight, all aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth and bringing renewed vibrancy to the heart of Gary. The project has completed preliminary Master Plans and involved community engagement during the Comprehensive Plan and Downtown Vision and Action Plan processes.  

About the City of Gary

The City of Gary is dedicated to revitalizing its core, fostering economic development, and improving the quality of life for its residents through strategic planning and community partnerships.

Contact:
Corrie Sharp
Development Advisor
City of Gary
CSHARP@GARY.GOV
219-343-4845

Media inquiries contact:
Steve Segura, Chief Communications Officer
City of Gary
219-293-0101
stsegura@gary.gov

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Gary, Indiana — The City of Gary is proud to announce a significant community investment from Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana. The company has committed a $500,000 contribution to support the design and construction of the City’s new Gary Animal Care facility—matching the $500,000 in ARPA funds already allocated for this critical project.

This $1.4 million project will replace the City’s severely deteriorating Animal Control facility with a modern, humane, and efficient structure designed to better serve animals and residents alike. The new facility, to be located at 950 Jefferson Street, will include administrative offices, indoor and outdoor kennels, quarantine space, and necessary storage areas. WDi Architecture is currently developing the facility’s design. The project will be going out to bid in the coming months followed by construction in the summer.

Mayor Eddie Melton expressed deep appreciation for Hard Rock’s partnership, noting the positive impact this contribution will have on public safety, animal welfare, and neighborhood quality of life.

“This generous contribution from Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana demonstrates their continued commitment to being a true community partner,” said Mayor Eddie Melton. “This project will allow us to provide compassionate, modern care for animals while improving essential city services. Hard Rock’s support is helping us turn a long‑standing need into a transformative investment for our residents and our city.”

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana President & CEO Matt Schuffert emphasized the company’s dedication to supporting community advancements in Gary.

“Hard Rock is proud to stand with the City of Gary on a project that enhances both public safety and community well‑being,” said Schuffert. “We believe in supporting initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods and improve quality of life. This new Animal Control facility will serve the city for years to come, and we are honored to contribute to its success.”

Lori Latham, 1st District Councilwoman, highlighted the collaborative effort required to bring this vision to fruition.

“This project is a testament to what we can achieve when the public and private sectors align for the good of our community. Replacing our outdated facility has been a priority, and this funding ensures we can provide a safe, modern environment for our staff and the animals in our care. We are grateful to Hard Rock for helping us bridge the gap to make this facility a reality.

The remaining project funding—totaling $400,000—will come from existing Community Development and Animal Shelter allocations. The city is also working closely with Silverstray Social, the official nonprofit partner supporting the Animal Control Division.

With this contribution, the City of Gary and Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana continue building on a shared vision for a safer, healthier, and more compassionate community.

Press Conference Info
Date: March 12, 2026
Time: 10:45 a.m.
Location: GPD Public Safety Facility
Community Room
555 Polk St, Gary, IN 46402

About the City of Gary

The City of Gary is committed to revitalization, economic growth, and improving the quality of life for all residents. Under the leadership of Mayor Eddie Melton, the city is focused on strengthening neighborhoods, enhancing public safety, and driving sustainable development.

Contact:
Steve Segura, Chief Communications Officer
City of Gary
stsegura@gary.gov

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New feature during Notre Dame football game spotlights the City’s collaboration with the University’s School of Architecture.

GARY, Ind. – A nationwide audience caught a glimpse of the future of Gary, Indiana this weekend, as the city was the focal point of the latest installment in the University of Notre Dame’s “What Would You Fight For?” series.

The segment, which aired during the broadcast of the Notre Dame football game, is titled Fighting for Community Regeneration. It chronicles the dynamic partnership between the City of Gary and Notre Dame’s Housing and Community Regeneration Initiative (HCR). The commercial moves beyond the city’s industrial past to showcase a new era of development focused on revitalizing the downtown Broadway corridor and stabilizing local neighborhoods.

Unlike traditional master plans that are often developed in isolation, this collaboration functions as an immersive "think-and-do tank." Faculty and students from the School of Architecture spent significant time on the ground in Gary, working side-by-side with city officials and residents to design practical, actionable solutions for zoning, historic preservation, and blight reduction.

Mayor Eddie Melton, who appears in the segment, noted that the project represents a critical turning point for the community.

“This is our moment to truly transform and turn the story around,” said Mayor Eddie Melton. “I tell folks all the time: This is going to be the greatest comeback story in American urban history.”

A key focus of the feature is the extensive community engagement process. Christopher Harris, the City’s Executive Director of Redevelopment and a fourth-generation resident, worked closely with the university team to ensure the proposals honored the lived experiences of Gary citizens. The commercial details how the design team held lengthy listening sessions, allowing residents to voice their frustrations and aspirations before any drawings were made.

“When our final recommendations were shared with the public, there was a resounding round of applause because there was a moment where we felt like we got it right,” said Harris. “The Notre Dame School of Architecture was able to listen in a way that the community felt their voices were heard.”

The broadcast highlights the resilience of the community and the Melton administration’s commitment to building a safe, thriving environment. By leveraging this academic partnership, the city aims to implement high standards for urban design that will encourage new investment and restore a sense of place for residents.

To watch the full segment and read more about the partnership, visit the Notre Dame What Would You Fight For? website.

About the City of Gary

The City of Gary, Indiana, is located 30 miles from downtown Chicago on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Home to a rich cultural history and the Indiana Dunes National Park, the city is currently undergoing a historic revitalization under the leadership of Mayor Eddie Melton, focusing on economic development, community safety, and infrastructure improvement.

Media Contact:

Steve Segura,  
Chief Communications Officer  
ofc: 219-293-0101
cell:219-670-8072
em:Stsegura@gary.gov Headline  

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First Cultural Main Street in Indiana to specifically honor a Historically Black Neighborhood.

GARY, IND. — Mayor Eddie Melton announced today that the City of Gary has been officially designated as an Indiana Main Street community for its historic Midtown corridor, officially named “The Midtown Broadway Cultural Heritage & Music District.” Bestowed by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA), this designation makes Gary home to the only officially recognized Indiana Main Street in Lake and Porter Counties. It also marks a statewide milestone as Indiana’s first-ever Cultural Main Street specifically honoring a Historically Black Neighborhood.

The designated district, bound approximately by Broadway to Harrison Street and 21st Avenue to 27th Avenue, will be stewarded by the newly formed 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Gary Broadway Main Streets Inc.

"Broadway is the front door to the core of our city," said Mayor Eddie Melton. "Gary has a cultural legacy that was resilient enough to persist despite many historical challenges. This designation is a foundational step in formalizing our vision for a premier Musical District. By leveraging Gary’s unique African American experience and music history, we are driving tourism, supporting our local entrepreneurs, and creating a curated destination right here along Gary’s Statehouse 'Two-Five' corridor."

This achievement is the culmination of two and a half years of collaborative effort with OCRA and the Lt. Governor's Office. The initiative executes a vital component of Eze Redwood's Economic Development Administration (EDA) Economic Recovery Corps scope of work, awarded in Fall 2023. Local urban and community planner Parisrice Robinson, President and CEO of Gary Broadway Main Streets Inc., spearheaded the 501(c)(3) creation and the rigorous application process, drawing on her success in establishing multiple Main Streets in the Florida region.

The Gary Broadway Main Streets Board of Directors includes:

• Parisrice Robinson, President

• Shirley Ballard-Davis, Owner of The Elbow Room (Treasurer)

• CoCo Owens, NY Life Insurance Agent (Secretary)

• Christopher Harris, Gary Redevelopment Executive Director

• Eze Redwood, Economic Recovery Corps Fellow / Gary Economic Development

Driving Economic Vitality and Support for Small Businesses

This designation marks a shift toward a proven, data-driven framework for local economic growth. The state will provide technical assistance and access to Community Liaisons to help the district track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), measuring visitor traffic and economic growth.

"We are ensuring that no business is left behind," Parisrice Robinson added. "This program provides our Midtown shops with a cohesive brand, professional marketing support, and the technical training to become recession-proof and scalable."

Through creative placemaking, the district will see aesthetic improvements designed to encourage visitors to linger and support local commerce. Projects within the district will be supported by a versatile funding mix, including CDBG dollars, state grants, and philanthropic support. Furthermore, the designation strengthens Gary's position to establish a Cultural District with the Indiana Arts Commission and collaborate with organizations such as the Legacy Foundation to unlock additional funding for cultural activation.

“This Main Street initiative aligns directly with the Gary Redevelopment Commission’s resolution to revitalize the Midtown Corridor, creating an organized identity that will attract new businesses, residents, and visitors to the heart of the city,” said Christopher Harris, Gary Executive Director of Redevelopment.

Contact:
Steve Segura,  
Chief Communications Officer
City of Gary
stsegura@gary.gov

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GARY, IND. On Thursday, October 2, 2025, Mayor Eddie D. Melton joined Indiana Governor Mike Braun, Congressman Frank J. Mrvan, city leaders and community partners to break ground on the new FedEx Distribution Center at 1 Buffington Harbor Drive, near the Gary/Chicago International Airport. The $60 million project represents a major step forward in Gary’s ongoing economic revitalization and is expected to generate approximately 600 new jobs for residents.

"This was more than just groundbreaking; it was a testament to the fact that major corporations are seeing what we see in Gary—a city with immense potential and a dedicated workforce," said Mayor Eddie D. Melton. "Attracting a global leader like FedEx is a powerful signal that we are building a new economic foundation. This project is about creating real opportunities and a brighter future for the people of our city."

State and federal leaders from across Indiana joined the celebration, highlighting the project’s significance to the region.

"Indiana is proud to connect America through our transportation infrastructure, and help power the dynamic American economy,” said Indiana Governor Mike Braun. “This new FedEx facility is a big step forward in continuing Indiana’s tradition as the Crossroads of America”

Congressman Frank Mrvan stated, “Today’s groundbreaking of the new FedEx Distribution Center is proof that cooperation creates success.  By working together locally, statewide, and federally we built the infrastructure that made this $60 million investment and 600 new jobs possible.  I thank FedEx for believing in Gary and Northwest Indiana, and I applaud the men and women of the Building Trades whose work builds not just projects, but more economic opportunities for everyone.”

Media Contact:
Steve Segura
City of Gary, Chief Communication Officer
stsegura@gary.gov | (219) 293-0101

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GARY, Ind. – The Gary Police Department has released its 2025 Public Safety Report, highlighting substantial reductions in violent crime and significant increases in investigative outcomes compared to 2024. Most notably, the report shows that Gary recorded its lowest homicide rate since 1970 — the lowest in 55 years — marking a historic milestone for the city. The report reflects continued progress in the department’s mission to enhance public safety, accountability, and community trust across the City of Gary.

Violent crime trends show meaningful improvement citywide. Non-fatal shootings declined from 133 incidents in 2024 to 101 in 2025, representing a 24% decrease—more than double the reduction achieved the previous year. Homicides also dropped significantly, falling from 40 cases in 2024 to 28 in 2025, a 30% reduction. Since 2023, homicides are down a combined 46%, while non-fatal shootings have decreased by 31%.

The department’s homicide closure rate rose to 82% in 2025, up from 74% in 2024 and well above the national average of 61%.

“Public safety is about protecting people and strengthening neighborhoods,” said Mayor Eddie Melton. “The progress outlined in this report shows what’s possible when our police department and our community work together. I’m grateful for Chief Cannon’s leadership and the commitment of our officers to serving Gary with integrity.”

Investigative outcomes across general crime categories increased sharply in 2025. Defendants charged more than doubled, rising from 163 in 2024 to 334 in 2025—an increase of 105%. Felony charges climbed from 506 to 778, a 53% increase, while misdemeanor charges rose from 87 to 261, marking a 200% increase year over year.

“These numbers reflect a more focused and proactive approach to investigations,” said Chief Derrick Cannon. “Our officers and detectives are working tirelessly to follow through on cases, build stronger files, and ensure individuals committing crimes in our city are held accountable.”

Narcotics enforcement efforts also expanded significantly in 2025. Defendants charged increased from 52 in 2024 to 76 in 2025, a 46% rise. Felony narcotics charges jumped from 112 to 202, an 80% increase, while misdemeanor narcotics charges rose from 40 to 66, up 65%. These efforts underscore the department’s continued focus on disrupting illegal drug activity and improving neighborhood safety.

“These outcomes reflect a department that is focused on accountability and follow-through,” said Chief Derrick Cannon. “Our officers and detectives are working cases thoroughly, strengthening investigations, and ensuring violent offenders are held responsible. This progress is the result of discipline, teamwork, and clear expectations.”

Looking ahead, the Gary Police Department will continue to prioritize violent crime reduction, proactive policing strategies, officer training, and community-based crime prevention initiatives throughout 2026.

“On behalf of the Gary Police Department, I thank the residents of Gary for their continued trust and support,” Chief Cannon added. “We remain committed to building a safer city for everyone.”

Media Contact:

Steve Segura
Chief Communication Officer
City of Gary
Ph:219-806-6489
Stsegura@gary.gov  

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SOUTH BEND, IN — Building on the momentum of the recently unveiled "Vision and Action Plan" for Downtown Gary, Mayor Eddie Melton joined regional executives and academic leaders today at the University of Notre Dame for their 3rd Annual 100-Mile Coalition Summit.

Mayor Melton’s participation in this summit marks a significant step forward in the ongoing partnership between the City of Gary and the University of Notre Dame School of Architecture’s Housing and Community Regeneration Initiative. This collaboration, which produced a comprehensive roadmap for Gary’s downtown core, is now being highlighted as a model for urban regeneration across Northern Indiana.

Mayoral Panel Participants:

• Mayor Tom Dermody, City of LaPorte

• Mayor Eddie Melton, City of Gary

• Mayor James Mueller, City South Bend  

• Mayor Rod Roberson, City of Elkhart  

• Mayor Dave Wood, City of Mishawaka

• Moderator — Marianne Cusato, Director of the School's Housing and Community Regeneration Initiative

"Our partnership with the University of Notre Dame is not just about a report on a shelf; it’s about active, boots-on-the-ground transformation," said Mayor Eddie Melton. "Being here today allows us to align Gary’s specific ‘Vision and Action Plan’ with the broader goals of the 100-Mile Coalition. We are moving from the planning stages directly into implementation, reestablishing a culture of building that honors our history while securing our financial future."

Christopher Harris, Executive Director of Redevelopment, provided a "Gary Spotlight" presentation last year. He detailed the four-stage regeneration strategy – Analysis, Design Charrettes, Follow-up, and Implementation – that was developed in tandem with Notre Dame faculty and Gary residents.

The partnership focuses on key "Stage 4" objectives, including:

• Blight Reversal: Prioritizing the preservation of historic structures over simple demolition.

• Infill Housing: Developing a strategy to bring dense, walkable residential options back to the city center.

• Economic Stabilization: Reinvigorating the downtown tax base through thoughtful, mixed-use development.

"The work we are doing in Gary draws from and provides knowledge to this entire regional coalition," said Marianne Cusato, Director of the Housing and Community Regeneration Initiative at the University of Notre Dame School of Architecture. "Mayor Melton’s leadership in this space ensures the vision we’ve created together will become a reality which will benefit the residents of Gary now and for generations to come."

Mayor Melton’s attendance at the summit reaffirms the City’s commitment to using world-class architectural expertise to drive local economic growth. By participating in the 100-Mile Coalition, the City of Gary continues to position itself as a central hub for talent, investment, and sustainable urban design in the Midwest.

For more information on the Downtown Gary Vision and Action Plan, please visit  www.gary.gov.

About the City of Gary  

The City of Gary is committed to revitalization, economic growth, and improving the quality of life for all residents. Under the leadership of Mayor Eddie Melton, the city is focused on strengthening neighborhoods, enhancing public safety, and driving sustainable development.

About the Housing and Community Regeneration Initiative
The University of Notre Dame School of Architecture’s Housing and Community Regeneration Initiative is a “Think-and-Do Tank” that provides assistance to municipalities and nonprofit organizations to improveeconomic development by reimagining the built environment. Our work targets immediate local impact as well as national and global influence through three interrelated activities: actionable projects, research, andeducation. Faculty, students, and collaborating professional teams carry out these activities under the leadership of the school’s dean, Stefanos Polyzoides, and the initiative’s director, Marianne Cusato. The work carried out under the Housing and Community Regeneration Initiative is grounded in the principles of New Traditional Architecture and New Urbanism. Central to this initiative is the belief that, as stewards of our built environment, we must seek to facilitate a robust social infrastructure and create a better world for future generations by developing and promoting beautiful, enduring buildings within human-scale, walkable communities.

Thank you to everyone who joined Mayor Eddie Melton and the City of Gary team for this week’s Community Forum at Indiana University Northwest!

If you missed it, you can watch the full forum and download the presentation to catch up on the latest updates, progress, and initiatives shaping the future of Gary.

Download the Presentation

Stay engaged and informed as we continue building a stronger, safer, and more connected Gary—together.

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"I want to commend Congressman Frank J. Mrvan for his persistence and unwavering advocacy in Washington. Securing these resources was a long battle, but because he refused to let these projects fall through the cracks, Gary is now receiving nearly $2 million in critical federal investments for Fiscal Year 2026.

This victory is especially significant for the West Side. We didn’t just hold the line on funding for the demolition of the former Ivanhoe Elementary School—we secured $1.1 million, a substantial increase over original projections. This additional funding ensures we have the resources necessary to fully tackle this dangerous eyesore, removing blight that has plagued the neighborhood for years and opening the door for revitalization.

Additionally, the $850,000 secured for the Gary/Chicago International Airport is a vital injection of capital that will expand our cargo logistics capabilities. As we continue to position our airport as a regional economic hub, this funding allows us to build the infrastructure needed to attract new business and create sustainable jobs.

Congressman Mrvan’s ability to deliver these results proves that when local and federal leadership work in lockstep, we deliver real wins for our residents. We are ready to put these dollars to work immediately."