The latest artist’s rendering of Plaza 618.
Mayor Blair Milo speaks at the groundbreaking June 9.
A view of the future plaza looking northward.
Photos by Bob Wellinski (click to enlarge)
It was a thriving business, then an empty building, and now a vacant lot. But a new vision promises to bring new life to 618 Monroe St.
At a groundbreaking June 9, 2015, the site of the former Woolworth’s building was dedicated as the future Younger Life Plaza 618.
Plans for the long-dormant southeast corner of Lincolnway and Monroe Street are intriguing, proposing a “first and only public plaza” including a stage area, plentiful outdoor seating, a fountain, local food available for delivery, and more.
Mayor Blair Milo was joined by LaPorte Chamber of Commerce President Mike Seitz, IU Health LaPorte Hospital CEO Thor Thordarson, Downtown LaPorte Coordinator Thaddeus Cutler and others at the groundbreaking.
Here’s the background, with information provided by city organizations:
“Younger Life Plaza 618 was conceived through the formation of a task force composed of City of LaPorte employees, Downtown LaPorte Main Street Association members, Business Improvement District representatives, Redevelopment Commission members, and community stakeholders. A location was identified by the task force and the Redevelopment Commission initiated the project by purchasing the blighted building at 618 Lincolnway. The LaPorte Urban Enterprise Association quickly followed with a sizable contribution to assist with the demolition and initial construction of the plaza. Once the building was approved for removal, IU Health LaPorte Hospital gave a very generous donation in support of construction of the plaza.
“This Plaza is not being funded from the city government’s General Fund, but from the support of many generous businesses, organizations and citizens who share the vision for a thriving downtown.
“Plaza 618 will serve as a centrally located facility in our historic downtown, helping to accelerate our growing main street. The plaza will feature areas to sit, relax, dine, enjoy events and entertainment, and interact. The fountain, tables, benches, umbrellas, live performance area, and a vibrant landscape are just a few of the amenities the plaza will provide. Several downtown LaPorte and surrounding restaurants will offer delivery service to tables in the plaza.”
City organizers are seeking the public’s help in securing more funds for the site. To donate and for more information, visit the plaza’s GoFundMe site at http://www.gofundme.com/plaza618.
IU Health LaPorte Hospital CEO Thor Thordarson speaks.
Looking toward the southeast.
Spades in the dirt.