Spectacular, affordable, and authentic are just a few of the words residents used to describe their concept of the convention center expansion.
The Monroe County Capital Improvement Board held a public meeting Monday night to update and get feedback on the project.
Around 50 community leaders and residents showed up including a member of the Indiana Limestone Institute who said using limestone in the design connects the building to nature.
Others asked for bike storage and safety, B-Line activation, public art, plazas and outdoor patios on the second floor to engage the community.
A few mentioned the need for affordable space with guidelines for reduced fees for local use including space for musical and theatrical talent.
And most want a visually stunning design with a presence of the building on all sides, not just on College or Third streets.
CIB President John Whikehart said he’s pleased at the turnout and suggestions.
“We will have final design stages through the first quarter of next year, hopefully breaking ground in the spring,” Whikehart said. “So, I continue to say that for government work, it's moving at warp speed.”
The process is in the early design phase. CIB members are also evaluating three developer proposals to be the companion hotel.
Convention Center Executive Director Talisha Coppock said she’s excited at the design and progress – and so are potential customers.
“There are people that are very interested in using that space, and we've been in contact with them that we're saying it's all it's starting to happen,” Coppock said.
Read more: CIB presents preliminary design for convention center expansion to city council
She said she’s also excited to be able to host new activities such as pickleball and fencing.
The next board meeting is scheduled for Oct. 9 at the convention center.
