The Brookings and Local Initiative Support Corp. released an economic playbook based on data from Michigan City, Seymour and Warsaw.
The “Advancing Inclusive Development in Rural Towns” model was unveiled in Washington D.C. The goal is to address economic stagnation and inequality in smaller towns.
“While the learning labs and individual playbooks varied as they were created by the leaders and community members in each community, the overall arch of the work completed has created a basis to be emulated in areas across the U.S. to bring real change,” said Clarence Hulse, Economic Development Corp. Michigan City executive director, in a press release.
“This playbook is meant to be adaptable for places of all sizes,” added Hanna Love, Brookings senior research associate.
The Indiana playbook is focused on actionable steps to improve economic opportunities, quality of life and quality of place. Bill Taft, LISC senior vice president of economic development, highlighted how each Indiana city has different population sizes and industries, but all face economic inclusive challenges.
“We need to focus on neighborhoods within the towns – neighborhoods are strategic to invest in,” Taft said.
The Vibrant Michigan City initiative is a three-year plan. It aims to address challenges along six avenues in the west side, midtown and east side areas of the city. The changes will be led by leaders and organizations with experience in each area.
The playbook agenda items range from short- to long-term plans. It includes supporting pathways to employment, strengthening local commercial districts and building healthy neighborhoods. It also involves constructing safe and affordable housing, and connecting people to recreation and nature.
Michigan City Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch was part of the launch of the Indiana playbook. She highlighted how Vibrant Michigan City has already made an impact.
“We invited people to participate who never had a hand in having a say in planning and development,” Deuitch said. “Vibrant Michigan City has already allowed us to work closer with our community and provide resources through the new EDCMC role that Erin Meisner took on.”
Meisner is leading the Michigan City Neighborhood Leadership Academy and a small business grant program.
“There are so many elements of the Vibrant Michigan initiative that can make a real impact on our community today and in the future,” Hulse said. “Our team and city and community leaders continue to push forward on all agenda items.”
