The city of Gary announced Wednesday that it’s on track to receive $1.45 million for ongoing infrastructure and neighborhood stabilization efforts, thanks to work from Rep. Frank Mrvan, D-Highland.
The funding is included in the 2027 fiscal year’s House Appropriations measure, according to the city’s announcement. The measure has already been approved by the committee, and it must now be approved by the full U.S. House, Senate and signed into law by President Donald Trump.
About $1.2 million will help the Gary Redevelopment Commission with the demolition of the closed Franklin Elementary School. The demolition will “clear the way” for development near Indiana University Northwest.
The Gary/Chicago International Airport will also receive about $250,000 in funding to support its air cargo and logistics area.
“Our city extends its heartfelt appreciation to Congressman Mrvan for his steadfast advocacy on behalf of the City of Gary,” Mayor Eddie Melton said in the announcement. “The funds targeted for the demolition of the former Franklin Elementary School are a crucial step in stabilizing the University Park area, paving the way for vibrant future development near the university. Furthermore, this continued investment in the Gary/Chicago International Airport provides the infrastructure support we need to ensure our airport becomes the absolute best in the region. This is exactly the kind of federal partnership that fuels our city’s momentum.”
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City leadership also said in the announcement that Gary will benefit from a $2 million Calumet Region Environmental Infrastructure allocation, which provides partnerships between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Lake and Porter counties “to address critical water, sanitary, and stormwater infrastructure improvements.”
Gary was not the only affected community, according to a Tuesday announcement from Mrvan’s team. Chesterton’s Streetscape Project is on track to receive $250,000 to create a “multi-use pathway” between the Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus and the downtown business district.
The Michigan City Septic Elimination Project will receive $746,868 to eliminate the risk of failing septic systems that drain into public waterways. Porter and Valparaiso will both receive $746,868. Porter’s will focus on its sewer rehabilitation project, and Valparaiso’s will be for a water main replacement project.
Munster will receive $360,000 to upgrade its generator, ensuring “operational security and emergency preparedness.”
“I thank all of my colleagues on the House Appropriations Committee for including these critical funds for Indiana’s First Congressional District that will grow our regional economy and improve our quality of place,” Mrvan said in a Tuesday statement. “I look forward to continuing to collaborate with Northwest Indiana leaders to return taxpayer dollars that will create new opportunities for more work and wealth for everyone.”