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Village Project Boosts Arts in Delaware County
Village Project Boosts Arts in Delaware County
“The significant investment in Ball State University’s new performing arts center marks a major milestone for our university and the entire Muncie community because the project is a catalyst for revitalization,” said Casey Stanley, Vice Chair of the Board of The Community Foundation. “Having grown up in Muncie near campus, I fondly remember The Village, where the boundaries between university and city blur – and the energy of Ball State’s students connect with our local community.”
In 2023, Ball State University approved and announced a development agreement for a revitalization plan for The Village, the commercial district located immediately adjacent to campus. The plan aims to create a multigenerational district driven by arts and culture, entertainment, and innovation. In October 2023, the University announced Our Call to Beneficence, a $350 million campaign focused on three pillars to enhance the University’s mission: student opportunity and success, the academic experience, and campus and community impact. A cornerstone of the revitalization plan is a new performing arts center at the corner of University and McKinley avenues.
Casey continued, “This project is more than just a building; it’s a bridge to our future, promising to reinvigorate The Village with the life and energy that a major university can bring to its community. People from all over the United States know of Muncie thanks to BSU’s theater program. This new facility will not only further distinguish BSU’s program, but it will also be a space where the arts continue to be a powerful connector for all of us.”
Redevelopment of The Village has been a longstanding goal of the University and the community. In addition to the performing arts center, the plans include entertainment, arts, retail, and restaurant options for the whole community.
“With the robust development we’re witnessing in Muncie’s downtown district, the redevelopment of The Village will extend the arts, entertainment, and retail options for the city as a whole,” said Lathay Pegues, who serves as a volunteer on the Foundation’s Grants Committee. Lathay also grew up in Muncie and made the choice to call Muncie home for himself and his business. “I’m certain this will be a conduit, not a divider, between Downtown Muncie and Ball State campus for all residents to enjoy.”
The tie between campus and community was further endorsed when Lilly Endowment Inc. announced that Ball State would receive a $35 million grant through its College and Community Collaboration initiative. The grant directly supports the revitalization project. The Community Foundation was one of many organizations to provide a letter of support for the university’s application.
“We were able to advocate on behalf of a trusted partner, Ball State University, to Lilly Endowment Inc.,” said Marcy Minton, President and CEO of The Community Foundation. “We are excited to partner with Ball State University and other arts partners, as we embrace this new district as an arts and culture hub and build a strong arts identity for our community.”
The Community Foundation will also provide capital support for the performing arts center. In February, the Board of Directors approved a commitment of $500,000 over six years through the Community Grants Program, including support from the Harry and Janet Kitselman Fund, Mutual Legacy Fund, and the Unrestricted Fund of The Community Foundation.
Revitalization of The Village is one of many exciting projects that are making Muncie a better place to live, work, play, and visit. The Community Foundation is here today, tomorrow, and always to support projects, like this one, that enhance the quality of life for residents of Muncie and Delaware County.
