Shelbyville, IN – July 12, 2024 – The City of Shelbyville and the Accelerate Rural Indiana (ARI) Regional Development Authority proudly announce a significant achievement following the recent ARI Development Board meeting. ARI is currently on track to become the first region in Indiana to reach the 65% milestone in regional development by the third quarter of this year, two quarters ahead of projections.

To achieve the 65% milestone, a total of $1.33 million is needed. With $870,811 currently pending (4.5%) and $10,406,203 already disbursed (approximately 54%), we are confident that this target will be met through strategic reallocation of funds. All projects are expected to meet the August 1 deadline, a testament to the cooperation and teamwork within our region.

In a significant move, the ARI Development Board has approved a motion to unobligate READI 1.0 funds from Shelbyville’s sports complex and reallocate them to the AMP and Civic Theater projects, which were originally slated as READI 2.0 initiatives. This reallocation, pending approval from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, will allow these important arts projects to proceed immediately and open up the 2.0 list for new and more ARI projects.

Funding arts initiatives and projects bring numerous benefits to rural communities. These initiatives foster community engagement, enhance cultural offerings, and stimulate economic growth. They attract visitors, support local businesses, and create a vibrant atmosphere that enhances the quality of life for residents.

For more information about the Indiana READI program and its impact, visit Indiana READI. To learn more about Accelerate Rural Indiana and our ongoing projects, visit Accelerate Rural Indiana.

Together, we continue to build a stronger, more vibrant Shelbyville.

Contact:
Jenna Martin, Director of Public Relations
Jmartin@cityofshelbyvillein.com