STATEHOUSE (Dec. 15, 2021) – Communities across all 17 regions in Indiana will receive $500 million as part of a new, innovative state grant aimed at increasing quality of life and attracting top talent, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper).
On Tuesday, Gov. Eric Holcomb announced $30 million will go to counties in Indiana Uplands, including Brown, Crawford, Daviess, Dubois, Greene, Lawrence, Martin, Monroe, Orange, Owen and Washington counties. The group submitted a regional development plan as part of a competitive grant process through the Indiana Regional Economic Acceleration and Development, or READI, initiative.
During the 2021 legislative session, Bartels and Lindauer supported making a record investment in READI in order to encourage communities to partner and create a plan for the future.
"These quality-of-life investments will provide an additional boost for our region's economic growth, including our many recreational and tourist attractions," Bartels said. "READI grants will help us create new jobs and attract highly trained workers."
Regional development plans across the state included housing, trails, broadband, childcare and wellness initiatives, workforce development programs, and telling Indiana’s story to the world. Lindauer said the plans enumerated a nearly 10:1 capitalization leverage ratio from private and public sources as compared to the state investment.
"Through this initiative, we can further enhance our region by building on our incredible existing resources, such as a growing tech sector, world-class educational opportunities and beautiful natural features," Lindauer said. "This funding will help us take full advantage of our region's strengths."
Click here for a full list of READI award recipients and visit iedc.in.gov to learn more about the READI initiative
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State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) represents House District 74,
which includes portions of Spencer, Dubois, Perry, Crawford and Orange counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) represents House District 63,
which includes portions of Daviess, Dubois, Pike and Martin counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
