Innovation in Place Building
Today, Crawfordsville continues to amaze with its innovative roots and collaborative approach to place building. In fact, many of its amenities and programs are those usually seen in much larger communities.
In 2015, Crawfordsville became an Indiana Stellar Communities designee, a statewide program which provides resources to communities for transformational quality of place initiatives. As a designee, Crawfordsville leveraged millions of dollars to invest in--and complete--a number of very successful projects. These included a city-wide bike/pedestrian trail system linking the Wabash College campus to downtown, Pike Place an outside events venue and park, and the City's cornerstone project--Fusion 54. This multi-story facility houses a synergistic collaboration of growth entities such as the Fusion 54 Center, - an entrepreneurship support organization and coworking location, Wabash College's Center for Innovation, Business & Entrepreneurship, Crawfordsville/Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, Crawfordsville Economic Development, Crawfordsville Main Street, Visit Montgomery County, Montgomery County Leadership Academy, and Volunteer 54.
Another unique project currently underway is the repurposing of a historical landmark in the heart of downtown known as the Ben Hur Building. When complete it will house a boutique hotel, restaurant, and penthouse apartments.
Understanding the dynamics of the housing market, the City has taken proactive steps to affect change in this sector by working in partnership with residential developers to create the diversity of housing inventory required to attract young millennials, young professionals with children, and active seniors. As a 10GB location, Crawfordsville's fiber infrastructure can support the technology needs of remote workers and e-learners alike, and when combined with an average cost-per-square-foot of $100 and a median selling price of $149,000 for a single-family residence, makes Crawfordville a highly desirable location.
For additional resources and information:
Community Events Calendar
Crawfordsville Community School Corporation
