Communities around the state will be watching the progress of a unique project coming up for the north-central Indiana town of Logansport.
The Cass County Community Foundation-backed dream for the new community space includes a permanent farmers market, an incubator kitchen for small food businesses and making community garden plots available to local residents.
Deanna Crispen, president and CEO of the foundation, emphasized the initiative’s focus on uniting the diverse community.
“The whole idea behind this proposal was bringing people together through food,” Crispen explained.
Planners chose Heritage Park for the project and intentionally designed it to honor the town’s immigrant history. They are working with minority groups to ensure inclusivity. The Lilly Endowment has awarded a $5 million grant to fund the project.
Crispen pointed out Purdue University’s Extension program will teach agricultural techniques to new residents. The garden plots will allow families to grow traditional foods alongside local staples.
“The space where we’re going to build is where the immigration statue is,” Crispen noted. “This was meant to be a gathering place.”
Organizers expect construction to begin next spring. Local organizations and city officials are coordinating logistics, such as relocating the farmers market during construction. Crispen described the project as a future centerpiece for the community, bringing pride and economic opportunities for years to come.
