Ribbon cut on the Post House in Evansville

EVANSVILLE, Ind. (Inside INdiana Business) — Officials in Evansville have cut the ribbon on a $42 million mixed-use development in the city’s downtown. The Post House, which received funding through the state’s Regional Cities Initiative, was developed by Indianapolis-based Scannell Properties and Vectren Corp. in Evansville as a “living laboratory” to test smart energy technologies.

The apartments at the Post House include smart energy appliances and home automation that will enable “new research into technologies that help customers manage their energy use and integrate emerging renewable resources,” according to the Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana.

The Post House features rooftop solar panels, various smart appliances, and internet-connected home automation features. Future plans for the development include electric vehicle charging stations and ultra-efficient natural gas and electric heating and cooling systems.

“By giving more individuals the opportunity to live and thrive in downtown Evansville, we strengthen the core of the city and foster an environment for increased collaboration,” Beth McFadin Higgins, president of the Southwest Indiana Regional Development Authority, said in a news release. “The use of smart appliances puts Indiana’s Great Southwest at the forefront of innovation.” 

The Post House also features a coworking space and other retail components.

Evansville Mayor Lloyd Winnecke calls the Post House a template for future mixed-use development in the city and region. He says the facility is already 50% leased.