Jay County is part of an effort to bring millions in state funds to east-central Indiana.

If awarded, those funds would mean the opportunity for support for more than a dozen local projects.

In partnership with seven other counties, Jay County was part of the Forge Your Path East Central Indiana region’s application for the state’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI).

The region’s application was turned in at the end of September, and Indiana Economic Development Corporation has since posted regional development plans online. The East Central Indiana plan — partner counties are Blackford, Delaware, Randolph, Grant, Henry, Wayne and Fayette, in addition to Jay — includes a variety of local projects involving library improvements, new trails and fairgrounds restoration.

Two of the projects featured in the East Central Indiana application for funding through READI are the Jay County 4-H Capital Campaign and the rehabilitation of the Salamonia Schoolhouse Community Center and Park.

Jay County 4-H is raising funds in an effort to repair buildings at Jay County Fairgrounds, including the Show Arena and hog and cattle barns. (Blackford County 4-H is also seeking funds for similar improvement projects.)

“Investment in local 4-H programs in our region will increase regional development by providing region youth with the chance to explore and learn skills related to agriculture, develop meaningful relationships and give a chance for mentorships and future career opportunities,” the regional development plan says.

(A project to restore Floral Hall at the fairgrounds is also included in the plan.)

Funding is also being sought for repairs to the former schoolhouse and adjacent park in Salamonia. The facility has issues with heating and cool, a leaky roof and other water damage.

“When the improvements are complete, the Town of Salamonia, will be able to gather at the beloved schoolhouse and open space again, strengthening the town’s bond to this community resource for generations,” the regional development plan says.

Other Jay County-focused projects that are part of the regional development plan include construction of a new home for Jay County Humane Society, improvements at Dunkirk Public Library, funding for a Jay-Blackford Healthcare Council Medical Training Facility, infrastructure and improvements for Hall-Moser Theatre in the Performing Arts Center at the Jay County Campus of Arts Place, an expanded walking track at Jay Community Center, new trails, improvements to recreational sites and infrastructure to support new housing.

A series of projects in the East Central Indiana proposal are regionally focused efforts, including support for the East Central Indiana Talent Collaborative, expanding broadband internet, improving housing, entrepreneurship, vocational training, developing the workforce for the healthcare and technology sectors, workforce development and improving marketing and engagement.

Seventeen regions are involved in the READI process. A total of $500 million has been appropriated for the program, with regions eligible for up to $50 million.

(Those funds must be matched by contributions from local government units and private investment.)

The READI Review Committee will be reviewing regional development plans and making recommendations for funding to the Indiana Economic Development Corp. by December.

Awards are expected to be announced by the end of the year.
-30-