City: Batesville Has Opportunity for Downtown Redevelopment

(WRBI Photo)

(Batesville, IN) – Batesville city officials say they’re on the cusp of a tremendous downtown redevelopment opportunity at a former training site and historic food and beverage establishment.

Several months ago, Lisa Hutson approached Mayor John Irrgang and Economic Development Director Sarah Lamping to discuss her vision for her company’s future growth. Hutson owns Cosawove – formerly known as Hiviz – a female-owned business that manufactures and delivers workwear in the U.S. and internationally.

Hutson has entered into contracts to purchase two downtown buildings previously owned by Baxter (including the properties formerly known as the HillRom Training Center and AP Building), along with The Sherman, its Biergarten and Bier Hall Event Factory.

She plans to move her business from Sunman to the downtown Batesville location.

(WRBI Photo)

Preliminary plans for redeveloping the 250,000 square foot property include continuation of the restaurant and hotel operation, as well as housing, shopping, training and education opportunities, and much more.

City officials say this has the potential to bring revitalization, energy, and industry to downtown and the Batesville community overall.

“As a new mayor, it’s important to me that I proactively communicate with the citizens of Batesville about prospective growth in the community that might be impactful to them. This is why I wanted to share the information that we have, even though there are still unanswered questions about the project,” said Mayor John Irrgang. “While much of the project is ready to move forward, I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge to the public that there are still a few hurdles ahead.”

Irrgang says he will keep the public informed during the project’s progress.

If you have questions, contact the City of Batesville or visit www.batesvilleindiana.us.