Reprinted with permission from The Republic newspaper, June 30, 2022
COLUMBUS, Ind. — Gov. Eric Holcomb visited NexusPark this morning to announce that a number of projects from across Indiana have been approved for economic development funds — including NexusPark.
“Where we stand has been a long time in the marking, and there have been twists and turns along the way,” said Holcomb. “… I think we’re landing in a transformational spot.”
The project is receiving a $6 million Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative grant, said City Director of Administration and Community Development Mary Ferdon. According to state officials, this will be used for the development of Columbus Parks and Recreation Department offices and community spaces.
NexusPark is a joint effort by the city of Columbus and Columbus Regional Health to redevelop the former FairOaks Mall into a health, wellness and recreation center. The project was included in the South Central Indiana Talent Region’s READI proposal.
The region — which includes Bartholomew, Jackson and Jennings counties, as well as Edinburgh — was awarded a $30 million READI grant in December. The competitive grant program encouraged Indiana communities to partner together on proposals for future growth and improvement in their region, particularly in regards to talent attraction and retention.
