'A new season for Valparaiso:' Mayor Murphy discusses pandemic resiliency, downtown development

Starting in 2005, the city has made considerable investments in downtown business and infrastructure. Murphy said revitalization efforts have paid off, noting that there is now a demand for more downtown housing.

The recently-proposed Linc apartment complex will bring 121 units to the downtown. Located on the north side of Lincolnway between Michigan Avenue and Morgan Boulevard, the complex would consist of three separate four-story buildings that will form an "L" shape. The first floor will be filled with retail and restaurants.

Murphy said the project would address both Valparaiso's need for housing and downtown parking as the city plans on constructing a multi-level parking garage across the street.

Guided by a newly-drafted downtown vision plan called "Elevate Valpo," the city is also working on projects that will complement the downtown.

The formed ANCO windshield wiper factory, located at Brown and Campbell streets, is currently being transformed into the Journeyman Distillery. The project has been in development since 2015 and will include a distillery, brewery, restaurant, whisky garden, karaoke and event spaces.

Murphy said Journeyman will be the "centerpiece of a transit-oriented district," laid out in the Elevate Valpo plan as the "barrel district." A walking path will connect the area with downtown.

To help lead all of the new development, Murphy announced that current at-large City Councilman George Douglas has been hired by the city as the Director of Development. Douglas will step down from the council and will lead economic development and redevelopment efforts in his new role, Murphy said.

Looking ahead

After two years of masks, social distancing and remote gatherings, the city is focused on bringing residents back together. The new "Valpo For All Generations" parks initiative is focused on creating recreational areas and open space that caters to all ages.

The city recently purchased 248 acres of land on the East Side for a new park and indoor sports complex. The Parks Department is also working to complete a skate park at Fairgrounds Park, make upgrades to some of the city's existing parks and create an Adult Center for Enrichment for Valparaiso's senior population.

The initiative is the result of 2,000 resident responses collected through focus groups and surveys. "When the ideas begin with our people, they succeed," Murphy said.

Over the next year, Murphy said he also hopes to strengthen the city's relationship with Valparaiso University by re-energizing the Town and Gown partnership which includes a committee consisting of city staff and VU students and faculty.

Murphy also highlighted the continued success of some city initiatives including the Mayor's Youth Council and the Neighborhood Improvement Grant Program.

"We have a bright future ahead in Valparaiso. One that supports all ages, for today and for generations to come," Murphy said. "I thank you for your interest and for your commitment to Valparaiso."