Stimulus may spark revitalization push

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Governor Mitch Daniels said he wants to spend Indiana's possible share of the economic stimulus package as soon as possible on construction projects that would add more jobs to the state. One neighborhood is hoping for its share of federal and state dollars to move forward with a revitalization project.

The intersection of 49th Street and College Avenue, just south of Broad Ripple, has more closed businesses than open ones right now. On the northwest corner of the intersection, graffiti covers the front windows of a building. But on the southwest corner, there's a renovated building with thriving businesses. The building is an example of what community groups in the near north side area want for the entire quadrant.

Christian Lothery moved to Indianapolis about three years ago and is already investing in one corner. Laid off from Chrysler, Christian took a company buyout.

"During that time I was laid off. So, you know, we kept seeing the building with the lease sign up so me and my fiancé we said we just go ahead and go for it." said Lothery. "Took that buyout and invested in a restaurant to make jobs for others."

Lothery is opening Just Wingn It in just a few days.

"More homes, more living, more activity in this area wouldn't be bad. It's not a bad area considering it's going into Broad Ripple," said Lothery.

Lothery may get his wish. There's a $20 million plan in the works involving mixed-use real estate -- i.e. retail and living space. The construction project will get under way pending more state or federal funds, such as the funds from an economic stimulus package.

Senator Richard Lugar said, "Already people are lined up at the governor's office, and that's the appropriate place, I suppose, to seek this for so called shovel-ready projects -- that is, construction projects that get under way with very few weeks interceding."

Uptown developer Carreau Design wants people to stop at the intersection of 49th Street and College Avenue for more than just traffic lights.

"We've actually done a strategic assemblage from 49th all the way up to 50th Street." said Leif Hinterberger of Carreau. "This block is the center of Meridian-Kessler and it's been a major roadblock for further connectivity to downtown."

Can Do, a College Avenue neighborhood development organization, is just one of 12 neighborhood organizations backing the project. Carreau Design has letters of support from the police department and the mayor's office. But they need more than just letters of support, they need infrastructure improvements and that means money.