DePauw Stories

The Growing Green and Gold Together Initiative, a partnership between DePauw University and the City of Greencastle, hosted a community engagement event on September 16 at the Putnam County YMCA. The event celebrated the initiative’s first year of progress and provided important updates on several key projects that will strengthen connections between the university and the community while enhancing the quality of life in Greencastle.

Dr. Andrea Young, DePauw University’s vice president of administration and finance, provided an update on the Seminary Square Mixed-Use Development, announcing that negotiations are underway with a developer to transform two city blocks into a pedestrian-friendly mixed-use district featuring new housing, retail, green space and parking. Once contracts have been finalized, grant leadership and the developer will further engage the community to ensure local voices shape the design.

Greencastle mayor Lynda Dunbar shared preliminary architectural designs for improvements around Courthouse Square. These enhancements in the downtown district create safer roads and walkways while also bringing more vibrant spaces for events, gatherings and business activity to the courthouse square. This work is in collaboration with the architectural firm Rundell Ernstberger Associates, an award winning urban design, planning and landscape architectural firm. Preliminary designs and cost estimates have been received, and the implementation team will be determining the best course of action.

Additionally, Dr. Dionne Jackson, DePauw University’s vice president for institutional equity, provided updates about the initiative’s Small Business Incubator Fund. Jackson highlighted the impact of this fund over the past year, which has supported 25 local entrepreneurs and small businesses through training programs, a student pitch competition and a small business breakfast. The incubator fund works in partnership with Main Street Greencastle in developing and supporting entrepreneurs in the Greencastle area. Small Business Grants are now being accepted.

Finally, city attorney Laurie Hardwick announced that Hannig Construction has been hired as the construction manager for the state-of-the-art YMCA and natatorium. The facility will provide year-round aquatic access, including swim lanes and family-friendly features to promote health and well-being for all residents. Representatives from Hannig Construction attended the event to meet with community members.

Growing Green and Gold Together is a $109 million partnership funded by developer investments, private donations, city support and a $32 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its College and Community Collaboration initiative. To learn more about this partnership and the projects it will support, visit the Growing Green and Gold Together website.