A HISTORIC DOWNTOWN WITH A MODERN VISION Marion’s downtown is blending its rich history with bold revitalization efforts to create a vibrant future. At the heart of this transformation is Historic Marion, the city’s first-ever Main Street organization, which opens doors to valuable grant opportunities. These grants will fund community development, façade improvements, and infrastructure projects, laying the groundwork for sustained growth. The city’s efforts go beyond securing grants— they aim to create a livelier and more connected downtown. Key projects include two market-rate apartment developments—the first of their kind in over 35 years—bringing modern housing and commercial space to downtown. “We’re actively in the process of going around town, taking down blighted properties… to clean up the image of the city,” says Joe Murphy, Economic Development Specialist for the City of Marion. “We’re really focused right now on bringing new density and bringing people back downtown, both as commercial shoppers and we want to bring purveyors downtown.. new restaurants…new businesses.. and we want to bring people to help support those businesses by also bringing new housing,” Murphy adds. “We’ve filled… a total of 40 60-yard-wide dumpsters of trash that were hauled off,” Murphy explains. This effort is part of the Clean City 2.0 campaign, which has allocated $1 million to removing unsafe structures, demonstrating the city’s dedication to a cleaner, more appealing environment. Additionally, the city is revitalizing its downtown experience with the creation of the Riverfront District and a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), designed to attract restaurants, nightlife, and small businesses.“It allows the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission to issue additional liquor licenses… to create that nightlife scene right there along the riverfront,” Murphy shares. By prioritizing historic preservation while introducing modern amenities, Marion’s downtown is evolving into a hub of activity and opportunity.“We care about our image, and we want to really start to show that Marion is on the rebound,” Murphy emphasizes. LAYING THE GROUNDWORK FOR GROWTH Infrastructure investment is a key focus for Marion’s revitalization, with significant progress made in 2023. The city’s approach is both ambitious and forwardthinking, combining resources and innovation to enhance community life. The city has committed 51 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 01 MARION, IN
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